Greater Wellington is the promotional name of the Wellington Regional Council
News release
17 March 2004

Over 4000 households have already joined
Be the Difference

4301 households in the Greater Wellington region have already signed up as members of Be the Difference programme since it was launched two weeks ago. Be the Difference is Greater Wellington Regional Council’s programme to involve individuals and households in protecting the environment by taking personal responsibility for their actions.

“It’s very pleasing to see so many people in the region are willing to make small changes to their everyday life to protect our environment,” said Margaret Shields, Chairperson of the Greater Wellington Regional Council.

“Our preliminary results show that Be the Difference members are spread right across the greater Wellington region.”

Location of Be the Difference Members Number of members
Wellington City 1764
Wairarapa 342
Kapiti Coast District 534
Hutt City 784
Upper Hutt City 326
Porirua City 336
Other (includes data still to be allocated into sub-regional areas) 215
Total 4301

Be the Difference began with the progressive delivery of a signup brochure, in late February, to every household in the region. Residents can also join online at www.bethedifference.gw.govt.nz.

“Those who opt to become Be the Difference members will receive information packs three times a year, giving advice and tips on how they can protect our environment and live a more sustainable lifestyle. The first pack is about water quality issues.”

“The advice we’re giving is simple and memorable. For example, after painting, clean your brushes in the laundry sink or in a bucket that you tip on your garden. Don’t pour paint and the washing water down your stormwater drain as these drains flow untreated into the streams, rivers and the sea. As a strong visual reminder our water pack shows an image of a fish with paint pouring into it from a funnel, ” Councillor Shields said.

Councillor Shields said that Greater Wellington would continue to encourage residents to join the programme.

“Residents can join at any time, and we’ll be encouraging our existing members to spread the word on how small changes can make a big difference to the region’s environment.”

ENDS

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