The MCNZ Climate Justice Working Group invite discussion around current travel allowances that do not recognise or encourage climate friendly alternatives like the use of public transport or cycling.

Te Hāhi Weteriana has committed to a decade of climate justice, therefore it is timely to look at how  travel allowances impact our environment and contribute to climate change. 

Currently the travelling allowance rate varies dependent on how many kms are claimed, and whether a logbook is maintained and is linked to the IRD reimbursement rates – see extracts from Methodist Stipends and Allowances - below:

Source: https://www.methodist.org.nz/assets/Tangata/Information-Leaflets/01-July-2023-No.25-Presbyters-Stipends-Allowances.pdf p 14 & 15

These allowances do not include any provision to reimburse any travel costs for a person that chooses to use public transport or to ride a bike, although maybe an electric bike may come under the electric vehicle type.  Cycling and public transport reduces the person’s environmental footprint, and both these modes of transport are often faster and more efficient than using a car.

There are a range of different modes of transportation available particularly in urban areas including rental e-scooters and bikes.  These are good alternative transportation options for some ministries.

Cycling uses minimal fossil fuels, is a pollution-free mode of transport, reduces noise pollution, conserves roadways and residential space which results in opportunities for less concrete and more plant life in rural areas.  Cycling also can improve overall health and studies show that commuters who cycle are more productive, and require less time off work, as they are generally healthier.

It could be argued that the travel allowances currently reward those who are high carbon emitters and penalise those who actively seek to lower emissions in their transportation choices.  It could be further argued that the current policy disincentivizes people to change.

Rekindling the Va of the Papatuanuku, is understanding and recognizing what are the real root causes of climate changes Is it time to consider financial incentives that encourage change to protect our environment, by rewarding the choices we want to see?

Questions for discussion:

1.      Is it fair that those who use petrol and diesel vehicles are paid a higher allowance than those who use a petrol hybrid or electric vehicle?

2.      Is it fair that those who choose to use public transport or cycle do not receive any travel allowance?

3.      It is useful to consider the relevant MCNZ social principles which are:

3)      The co-operation of employers and employees for the benefit of the community.

5)        The right to a just return for services rendered and the right to good housing, and a healthy environment.

6)      The wise use and careful conservation of the world’s physical resources.

8)      The promoting of social and industrial reforms by lawful means.

4.                What would a fair and equitable travel allowance look like in the decade of climate justice?

5.                Should MCNZ provide financial incentives that encourage the use of low emission transportation?