Joint implementation
Joint implementation (JI) is a flexibility mechanism under the Kyoto Protocol. JI allows Annex I (industrialised) countries to work together to jointly implement initiatives that will reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions. JI enables Annex I countries to meet part of their required cuts in greenhouse gas emissions by paying for projects that reduce emissions in other Annex I countries, in return for emission reduction units (ERUs). This means that countries, or entities within those countries, can find the least-cost method for meeting their emission targets.
In New Zealand, all Projects to Reduce Emissions (PRE) are eligible to become Joint Implementation (JI) initiatives. This means that PRE project owners can sell the emission units they ‘earn’ to other party from Annex 1 countries or entities within those countries through the JI mechanism.
At this stage the New Zealand Government is not planning to introduce any further programmes that would fulfil JI.
The JI mechanism is arranged into two verification systems: Track 1 and Track 2.
Under Track 1, a country that meets all of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’s (UNFCCC) JI eligibility criteria can verify its own JI projects and issue tradable emission units.
Under Track 2, each JI project is subject to verification procedures through the UNFCCC because the country is unable to meet all of the eligibility criteria. This approach can be lengthy and costly.
New Zealand has adopted the Track 1 JI approach for the PRE projects, however PRE project owners may at any time elect to use the Track 2 procedure.
Joint Implementation ‘Designated Focal Point’
The Ministry for the Environment is the JI “Designated Focal Point” to the UNFCCC for New Zealand and as such, is responsible for approving JI projects in New Zealand.
Further information
- PRE Projects wishing to become Joint Implementation initiative should follow the following guidelines:
New Zealand’s National Guidelines and Procedures for Track 1 Joint Implementation - PRE projects that have been given approval to become Joint Implementation track one initiatives are listed here:
Notice of approval of Track One Joint Implementation Projects by the New Zealand Government - New Zealand-based entities wishing to invest in a Joint Implementation project outside of New Zealand should follow these guidelines:
Joint Implementation and the Clean Development Mechanism under the Kyoto Protocol - New Zealand's Guidelines and Procedures for Investment - United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change:
Joint Implementation web pages
Contact information
For enquiries on JI, contact New Zealand’s JI Focal Point:
Ministry for the Environment
P.O. Box 10362
Wellington
New Zealand 6143
Manager, ETS Operational Policy
Phone: +64 4 439 7400
Fax: +64 4 439 7700
Email: projects@mfe.govt.nz
Last updated: 25 July 2011
