New Zealand scientists demand immediate action on climate change

New Zealand's foremost scientific organization Monday called for immediate action on climate change in the wake of the UN Climate Change Conference in Paris.

The Royal Society of New Zealand had two independent expert panels developing advice on the implications of climate change for New Zealand, and on possible options New Zealand might take to reduce its emissions.

Their reports would be published next year, Royal Society president Professor Richard Bedford said in a statement.

"We will be presenting information on those issues that most affect New Zealand including rising sea levels, increasing temperatures, flooding risks, changes to ecosystems, ocean systems and likely international impacts," said Bedford.

"The climate system is very complex which means there is some uncertainty about what will happen and when. This is a reason to act, not a reason to wait. Acting to protect our environment, economy and culture will always be worthwhile," he said.

"The risk of not acting to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and protect ourselves from these effects is vastly greater than the risk of over-investing to protect ourselves and our environment."

The New Zealand government was heavily criticized during the Paris conference for its relatively weak emissions targets, lack of a clear climate change plan, and its perceived hypocrisy in lead calls to end fossil fuel subsidies on consumption while it subsidized production. Endit