November 18, 2010.

Clean Technology Centre a milestone for Kāpiti says Mayor

The opening of the new Clean Technology Centre in Ōtaki is a great opportunity for business, the community, Council, and Grow Wellington to work together to drive sustainable economic benefit for the local, regional and national economy, says Mayor Jenny Rowan.

A number of people took part in the official launch of the centre today, including Research, Science and Technology Minister Dr Wayne Mapp, Opposition Leader Phil Goff, the Mayors of Wellington and Porirua City Celia Wade-Brown and Nick Leggett, and business leader Sir Stephen Tindall.

Ms Rowan said Council was recognised nationally for its work in encouraging conservation, biodiversity, sustainability, and community involvement in environmental issues.

That approach had seen Council supporting the development of a technology that had huge potential for waste minimisation, through to the establishment of a pilot operation at the wastewater treatment plant; to working with the Ōtaki community through the Community Board, to helping the community see the ‘big picture’ and embracing the ambitious goal of becoming the first ‘off-grid’ town in New Zealand; to leading the country in making it compulsory through the District Plan for new houses to have water saving technologies in the form of rainwater tanks and grey water systems.

Ms Rowan said the development, manufacture and use of clean technology presented a very positive and viable way forward for Kapiti, the Region, and the clean, green brand of New Zealand.
“Our enthusiasm for this particular project is based on the availability of a great commercial site in a town that is very keen to be actively involved, and on Council’s strong desire to be a leader in the creation of small-scale sustainable domestic technologies.
“We also have a strong Māori business sector, and a growing hub of companies operating here who are strong players in this field.”
She said the launch of New Zealand’s first Clean Technology Centre was a milestone and an achievement for the District and the region.

ENDS

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