News

Kia ora, 

You may have seen an article in the Otago Daily Times this morning, regarding Business South’s position on the Zero Carbon Alliance. We want to take this opportunity to clarify our position and reaffirm our strong support for the sustainability journey many businesses across our region are already on.

Business South fully supports the goal of achieving a zero-carbon future and recognises the outstanding progress many businesses are making in sustainability and emissions reduction. We are proud to support and champion our members in these efforts.

While we have not formally signed the Zero Carbon Alliance, the context for this decision by the Board is crucial. The ZCA's framework, established in 2022 is prescriptive. Joining in 2025 to pursue a 2030 target without a National Roadmap in place would divert our finite resources away from existing commitments, particularly when technological, infrastructural, and capital barriers are still being addressed within a 2050 timeframe.

The reality is that many of our members, particularly small to medium enterprises (SMEs), are focused on maintaining business viability in challenging conditions, and would expect us to remain focused on supporting their immediate needs, whilst as an organisation continuing to advocate and develop in the areas of sustainability best practice and leadership with our existing relationships and commitments.

However, we continue to work closely with the Dunedin City Council and other partners on shared sustainability goals, and we are committed to collaborating on initiatives that unite businesses and accelerate the transition to a zero-carbon economy. 

As part of the wider BusinessNZ network, we also work closely with the Sustainable Business Council, further strengthening our ability to support members in making practical, impactful progress on sustainability.

We are also strong supporters of the Council’s continued commitment to helping small to medium enterprises (SMEs) and NGOs measure and reduce their emissions through the Zero Carbon Business Support Pilot Programme. This initiative is helping businesses take practical, cost-effective steps towards reducing emissions and unlocking long-term business benefits — something we are very proud to support.

If you would like to learn more about how Business South can support your organisation’s sustainability journey, please reach out to us.

Kā mihi nui,
Mike Collins
Chief Executive Business South