NZ's climate risk reporting faces systemic challenges as institutions underreport progress
Original framing: “Why ‘greenhushing’ signals deeper issues with NZ’s climate risk reporting regime” — The Conversation - Global
Indigenous knowledge systems, such as Māori kaitiakitanga, offer holistic and long-term approaches to environmental stewardship that are often absent from institutional climate risk reporting. These systems emphasize relational accountability and intergenerational responsibility, which could provide a more robust framework for transparent and meaningful climate action.
New Zealand's climate risk reporting regime, while innovative, is undermined by systemic issues such as underreporting, regulatory gaps, and the exclusion of Indigenous and marginalized voices.
By integrating Indigenous knowledge systems like kaitiakitanga, strengthening regulatory enforcement, and enhancing public participation, New Zealand can create a more transparent and equitable reporting framework. Cross-cultural collaboration and future scenario planning are also essential for addressing the long-term and evolving nature of climate risks. Ultimately, a holistic and inclusive approach is necessary to align institutional practices with the urgent demands of climate action.