The Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) is a government initiative to offset greenhouse gas emissions in New Zealand. It is part of New Zealand's climate change policy, intended to meet obligations to the Kyoto Protocol and other international treaties.

The ETS will impact all major sectors including forestry, agriculture, industry, energy, waste and liquid fossil fuels. Forestry is the main source of domestic offset credits for emitters in New Zealand.

The forestry sector entered the market on January 1st 2008. Although the industry is still evolving, the potential for economic gain in carbon forestry is evident, offering a new revenue stream to forest owners.

All planted forests in New Zealand are now regulated by the Scheme. It is important that forest owners clearly understand their obligations.

Forest owners will need to be proactive during 2010 to ensure they maximise returns on their forests. Due to the complexities of the process, professional advice is essential.

Criteria...
Registration...