Methane, Climate Policy & Scientific Crediability, Peter Foster on RCR

PETER FOSTER: PART 1: Methane, Climate Policy, and Scientific Credibility

Scientist Peter Foster sits down with Don Nicolson and Jaspreet Boparai to unpack a letter to PM Christopher Luxon from 26 climate scientists opposing New Zealand’s proposed shift to a “no additional warming” biogenic methane target. They critically examine the scientific claims behind the letter, arguing that methane’s role in warming is overstated without global concentration increases. Peter suggests that New Zealand’s agricultural sector is being pressured by unfounded science, misguided corporate responses, and international expectations, while claiming many solutions pushed on farmers are unworkable and profit-driven. The trio also reflect on broader global trends in climate policy, casting doubt on the longevity of net zero commitments and hinting at a growing political pushback in countries like the UK.


Watch or Listen to original episode here, on RCR

Peter Foster, BSc (Hons) Biochemistry

Peter spent half a decade in post graduate research, before switching to secondary school educator. (Science to year 11, Chemistry, Biology to year 13). Retiring in 2000 to convert his small sheep farm to a deer and cattle farm. Peter has continued to study climate literature and engage with specialists in the field since 2007 with particular emphasis on methane since 2018.
- 1995 recipient of a FORST fellowship in the Geology Department Otago University.
- Leader of Vanda Station Antarctica 1985/86 and leader of Cape Hallet demolition team 1987.

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