We love New Zealand and take climate change measures seriously. Our Climate Transition Action Plan outlines in detail the actions we plan to take as we aim to play our part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and help limit global warming to no more than 1.5°C.
It builds on work we’ve done to reduce emissions and sets out near- and long-term targets we aim to achieve as we work towards a net-zero future while continuing to deliver reliable energy for New Zealand.
Impacts from climate change, actions to reduce emissions and the transition to a low-carbon economy are shaping the world around us. Our strategy anticipates that our business will encounter both climate-related opportunities and risks as we pursue our objective of playing a leading role in New Zealand's successful transition to a low-carbon future.
Our Climate Statement is prepared in accordance with the Aotearoa New Zealand Climate Standards released in December 2022 and provides a detailed look into how we consider and respond to climate-related risks and opportunities.
We actively measure and monitor our carbon emissions. Our geothermal operations generate greenhouse gas emissions and we are seeking to reduce these emissions each year. Our hydro and wind generation activities are largely emissions free.
In 2015, Mercury moved away from thermal generation. This has helped us decrease our total emissions by 41% since 2015 (as at 30 June 2023). Our absolute generation-related GHG emissions have decreased by 60% over the same period. For further detail on our carbon footprint, read our latest GHG Emissions Inventory.
MANAGING NATURAL RESOURCES
There are a number of programmes and surveys that we undertake (or participate in) to ensure we're caring for natural resources. Here are some great examples.
ENVIRONMENTAL AUDITS 16 audits were carried out at our operating sites during FY19.
RIVER BED SURVEYS We conduct 5-yearly bed degredation surveys to understand the potential impacts of sediment retention in the dams along the river from Karapiro to Ngaruawahia.