Dioxin Action Plan Short of the Mark

Embargoed until 11 October

10 October 2001- Auckland: The Government action plan against dioxins falls short of the mark required by an international treaty, the Stockholm Convention, signed by New Zealand in May this year.

“The Government action plan against dioxins is focused on reducing, not on eliminating dioxins and as a result compromises the health and environment of New Zealanders. This clearly fails the Stockholm Convention obligations, which has a goal to eliminate dioxins”, says Greenpeace campaigner, Sue Connor.

Dioxins are some of the most deadly chemicals known, they cause cancer and interrupt the hormone and immune systems of humans and animals, which in turn cause a raft of other health impacts, such as birth defects, endometriosis and diabetes.

“The Government must set an overarching policy goal to eliminate dioxins. Steps must then be taken to systematically outlaw all preventable sources of dioxins”, said Connor.

“Chlorine bleaching of pulp and paper, medical waste incinerators and sites contaminated with dioxins are all examples of sources which can and must be halted and cleaned up. “

“The government is proposing standards for dioxin pollution to air. While this may be a positive short term step in phasing out waste incinerators, the goal must be set to eliminate dioxins not provide for continued pollution”.

For more information please contact Greenpeace campaigner, Sue Connor on 025 272 4044 or 09 630 6317.

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