Going green great for business

Media Release

13 February, 2007

Waitakere - the "Eco City " - applauds the Green Party's tax proposals which encourage employers to adopt environmentally-friendly practices in exchange for financial benefits.

Councillor Penny Hulse says that as the Greens assert, it is time that New Zealand makes real strides towards becoming truly sustainable, and what better way to do this than by linking eco-friendly business initiatives to tax breaks.

Among the Greens' proposals are tax incentives for companies which invest in R&D into sustainable production methods, for plants which minimise waste and pollution, and for those who invest in staff training in cleaner production technologies.

"As the Greens assert, these ideas make it profitable for businesses to act in an environmentally sustainable fashion," Councillor Hulse says.

"Not only are they good for the businesses themselves, but they are good for New Zealand and the planet too."

"The Greens' idea of removing the fringe benefit tax for companies that provide public transport and bicycle facilities and instead of cars and carparks is another stellar initiative," she says.

The Waitakere City Council has already implemented many sustainable transport initiatives Councillor Hulse says, including encouraging public transport use by reducing the car parking available for staff while prioritising the limited parking available for those who carpool.

The council also provides ample bicycle storage facilities and actively encourages its staff to use public transport.

***ENDS***

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