Key Government Programmes
Last updated:
April 2009
The government recognises that New Zealand's environment is very important. This section gives you information about the measures that are being put in place at a national level.
The Ministry for the Environment’s programme promotes the sustainable management of air in New Zealand by developing the best national policies and tools to maintain and improve air quality. These include:
- Proposals for carbon pricing, pre and post-2012
- The Biodiversity Strategy
- And a range of transport related initiatives
This government's climate change website has information about the causes of, the evidence for and the effects of climate change. It describes the actions being taken to reduce emissions and the work being done to help people prepare for and adapt to climate change. It has updates on the government's Climate Change Response (Emissions Trading) Amendment Act 2008
Through this programme, Government will work with businesses and sectors to identify the standards, tools and verification infrastructure that will support a drive towards the development, use and export of eco-friendly goods and services.
This programme is making it easier for Kiwis to improve their lifestyles, save money, keep New Zealand’s environment healthy, clean and green, and respond to climate change. The programme engages directly with the public through a website, home shows and other community events.
Aim: to put New Zealand firmly on the path to a sustainable, low emissions energy future. The Strategy will focus on renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy sets the agenda for government programmes to promote greater energy efficiency, energy conservation and the use of renewable energy across the economy.
The New Zealand Transport Strategy
The government's vision for transport in 2040 is that "people and freight in New Zealand have access to an affordable, integrated, safe, responsive and sustainable transport system." The vision is supported by five transport objectives:
- ensuring environmental sustainability
- assisting economic development
- assisting safety and personal security
- improving access and mobily
- protecting and promoting public health
Government has invested in extending and enhancing Qualmark®'s accreditation programme to include environmental and social assessment criteria for accommodation providers, visitor activities, transport and services. For tourism businesses, this means meeting some minimum requirements in this area, along with recognising operators who are actively participating in energy efficiency, conservation initiatives, waste management, community activities and water conservation.
The strategy focuses on three national outcomes for freshwater:
- Improve the quality and efficient use of freshwater.
- Improve the management of the undesirable effects of land use on water quality.
- Provide for growing demands on water resources and encourage efficient water.
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