In brief

Managing contaminated land

Proposals for how the Ministry can best help local government and community manage the effects of contaminated land have received a lot of interest. The Ministry has received more than 60 submissions on its discussion paper, Working Towards a Comprehensive Policy Framework for Managing Contaminated Land in New Zealand. These submissions are now being analysed and a position paper will be available later this year. Contact James Court on (04) 439 7644 or email james.court@mfe.govt.nz

Join a sustainability debate

Every few weeks the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment poses an issue for discussion on a sustainability forum. This is part of their review of New Zealand’s progress towards sustainability, begun in mid 2006 and finishing in mid 2007. You can have your say at www.pce.govt.nz/forums/

Urgent call for Green Ribbon Award nominations

Do you know of an individual, organisation or business doing outstanding work towards a cleaner, greener New Zealand? Please nominate them for a Green Ribbon Award. These awards recognise contributions made by people putting environmental sustainability into action in their own backyards, communities and workplaces. Nominations close Friday 13 April 2007. For the list of categories visit our website www.mfe.govt.nz/ Contact Vikki James on (04) 439 7556 or email vikki.james@mfe.govt.nz

Wind farms proposed

Resource consent hearings are expected soon for two wind farms: Central Otago District Council’s Project Hayes and the Clutha District Council’s Mahinerangi Wind Farm. Wind power is a viable energy source that can help ensure security of energy supply by providing additional generation capacity and diversification of electricity production methods. It provides an environmentally responsible alternative to fossil fuels. Contact Nick Vincent on (04) 439 7646 or email nick.vincent@mfe.govt.nz

New tools for urban design

A second edition of the Urban Design Toolkit will be launched in May with several new tools, including Health Impact Assessment, Low Impact Urban Design and Subdivision Code of Practice. The Toolkit is a compendium of tools that can be used to facilitate high-quality urban design. It is available on the Ministry’s website. Contact Melissa Keys on (04) 439 7488 or email melissa.keys@mfe.govt.nz

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