G20: NZ could get break on climate change targets because we produce food, dairy says Key

Prime Minister John Key says New Zealand may get a dispensation on climate change targets because we produce dairy.

"I think everyone pretty much universally accepts we need to deal with the issue of climate change. On the other hand, globally 14% of the emissions come from agriculture, and no one wants to see a reduction in the volume of food. In fact they want to see an increase. And I think what leaders are practically saying is let's be a bit pragmatic about this. Let's find a technological solution for agriculture, absolutely let's try and find what emissions are about," the PM says.

New Zealand can't “force the pace” on reducing emissions, Mr Key says.

“When India and or say America and China sit down and genuinely say we are going to reduce our emissions as they did the other day off the 2005 target by 26 to 28%, that matters because they're massive emitters, and they also force everybody else along.  I don’t think New Zealand can force the pace.  I agree with the view that says we have to do our share.  We have to be seen as responsible in this area, and I genuinely believe we are.”

Climate change has been put in the G20 spotlight this week following the signing of an agreement between the US and China to reduce emissions.

Mr Obama has subsequently pledged $3 billion to the United Nations' fund to help poorer countries deal with the impact of climate change.

Despite the issue not being a priority for Mr Abbott, it's been put on the agenda by others, Mr Key says.

New Zealand will be making a small contribution, in the realm of $3 million, to the UN fund.

The PM said the new focus on climate change reflected a global rebound.

"Climate change is one of these issues where, when the economy is poor and countries are suffering from rising unemployment and decreasing growth, that it would be pushed to the backburner," he told reporters.

"As soon as the economy started rebounding it would become a top-of-mind issue and I think that's exactly what you're seeing."

Mr Key doesn't think New Zealand should be ashamed about the actions it's taking on climate change.

"What I've always believed is New Zealand's a very small player when it comes to climate change and ultimately we will never resolve what's a global issue unless large emitters are part of the solution."