Generation Zero Launches Election Scorecards

Monday, 19 September 2016, 8:58 am
Press Release: Generation Zero

Generation Zero Launches Election Scorecards

Youth Climate Change group Generation Zero have launched online scorecards for council and mayoral candidates across the country.

“Our aim is to get more people voting in local elections, and to make an informed choice. We need bold, courageous politicians who will fight for our future. Our scorecards are designed to help voters know who those candidates are.” Auckland Director Leroy Beckett

The scores are reflections of candidates’ commitments to issues broadly related to climate change, based on their own statements provided to Generation Zero. The scorecards are available at www.localelections.nz and www.aucklandelections.nz

Generation Zero sees these scores as a way to increase voter turnout, especially among young people.

“We believe the bigger cause of low voter turnout at local elections - more than apathy - is that potential voters feel uninformed. These scorecards are our attempt to change that”.

“They are a simplification of complex and nuanced issues, but a necessary compromise to increase engagement with local government for all New Zealanders”.

Generation Zero works extensively on issues such as transport and urban planning, where there are opportunities to reduce carbon emissions.

“Local Government is hugely important. Councils are able to drastically reduce our carbon emissions and increase the liveability of our cities by encouraging public and active transport, and the building of sustainable, energy-efficient homes and workplaces.”

ENDS

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