Environz

• In this issue
• New package of resource management work to begin
• Big changes for the Ministry
• Government to review air quality standards
• Understanding the land-sea connection
• Businesses benefit from smart eco-nomics
• Waste disposal levy introduced
• Greater public access to environmental databases
• New start for fresh water
• Lindsay has left the building
• In Brief
• For your diary

In brief

Hydrochlorofluorocarbons phase down

From 1 January 2010, the amount of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) allowed into New Zealand will reduce to 40 per cent of the amount currently imported.  HCFCs are primarily used in refrigerators and air-conditioners.  

The phase-down will reduce the negative impact of HCFCs on the ozone layer and provide benefits to climate change as they have high ozone depleting and global warming potentials.

Final phase-out of HCFCs is on 1 January 2015 when imports will cease.  Discontinuing the import of HCFCs in 2015 will maintain New Zealand's compliance with the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.

For more information contact Jayne Beggs, Analyst, Risk and Adaptation, jayne.beggs@mfe.govt.nz, (04) 439 7600.

New look for the Ministry’s website

In August, the Ministry’s website will have a makeover. A fresh, new look will be complemented by a more user-friendly design, a better search engine and a publications archive. This is the first step towards a Ministry web presence that is truly effective, engaging and evidence-based.

Waikato River Scoping Study

An independent scoping study to identify priorities and associated costs for the River’s rehabilitation over the next 30 years began on 18 June. The year-long Waikato River Scoping Study is funded by the Ministry for the Environment and led by the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, with governance provided by the Guardians Establishment Committee.

The project, which covers the Waikato River catchment from the Huka Falls to Te Puuaha o Waikato and the whole of the Waipa River Catchment, originates from the Waikato-Tainui Deed of Settlement and is supported by the other river iwi through agreements in principle.

For more information contact Caroline Read, Senior Analyst, Waikato River Independent Scoping Study, caroline.read@mfe.govt.nz, (04) 439 7676.

Sustainable Management Fund grants confirmed

The Ministry for the Environment's Sustainable Management Fund (SMF) has confirmed funding for 31 projects across the country. The focus of the 2009/10 funding round was encouraging sustainable households; sustainable land and water management; supporting sustainable business practices; and meeting the challenges of climate change.

For more information on the projects being granted SMF funding go to www.mfe.govt.nz/withyou/funding/smf/

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