Will’s Word: Is the Paris Agreement a commitment NZ can afford to break?

David Seymour is asking what's the point of New Zealand staying in the Paris Climate Agreement when many big countries like the US under Trump are backing out.

It’s easy to see why people question whether our efforts really matter if the world’s biggest emitters aren’t playing ball.

But here’s the thing: Climate change is the biggest threat to New Zealand and the Pacific.

Rising sea levels and extreme weather are already impacting our neighbours in the Pacific Islands, and the situation is only going to get worse.

If we pull out of the Paris Agreement, it weakens the global effort and sends the wrong message.

New Zealand, as a Pacific nation, has a responsibility to lead and show that action is possible, even if we're a smaller player.

So frankly we can't afford to walk away, our future is dependent on climate action.

I understand some see this Paris Agreement as nothing more than virtue signalling, but what is the alternative? Seriously, what is it?

If someone can provide a better idea I'm all for it - but pulling out without another option just seems backwards.

That's Will's Word.

US President Donald Trump signs an executive order to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement. Photo/US Govt Video