<
https://theconversation.com/5-reasons-why-the-fast-track-approvals-bill-threatens-nzs-already-fragile-ecosystems-227888>
"Conservation “good news” stories – the release of native birds into new
habitats, for example – are always welcome. They recognise the work of
conservation staff and volunteers who do the hard slog of checking trap lines
and removing weeds.
The reality is, however, that Aotearoa New Zealand’s environment is in deep
trouble. Talk of a “crisis” can be unhelpful if it encourages a sense of
hopelessness. But with the government’s Fast-track Approvals Bill approaching
rapidly, now is arguably the time to use the word.
The bill encourages development, but gives government ministers the power to
circumvent key environmental planning and protection processes for (as yet
unnamed) infrastructure projects.
By emphasising short-term economic gain, it risks eroding the country’s already
fragile natural capital and pushing biodiversity further into decline.
With public submissions on the bill closing at the end of this week, there are
numerous reasons to call for caution and a pause. These can be divided into
five broad categories."
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
