Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Bay Of Islands Treasures Under Threat – New EDS Case Study Points Towards Practical Solutions
The Environmental Defence Society (EDS) has today released its latest oceans reform case study: Caring for Te Pēwhairangi – Bay of Islands. The report highlights the extraordinary natural and cultural values of the Bay of Islands and the urgent need to address the serious environmental degradation occurring there. The report is part of EDS’s programme to design a new fit-for-purpose oceans management system for Aotearoa New Zealand.
“The Bay of Islands is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most iconic seascapes. It has immense ecological diversity, rich cultural heritage and supports a thriving tourism economy,” said EDS Policy Director Raewyn Peart, the report’s author.
“But these values are under increasing pressure and without stronger interventions they will continue to erode.
“Our case study documents alarming declines in kelp forests, fish stocks and bottlenose dolphins, as well as serious sedimentation problems and the spread of invasive Caulerpa seaweed. Climate change impacts will likely make this situation worse.
“These challenges are interconnected and symptomatic of wider systemic failings in the way we manage this special place.
“Our report identifies some practical initiatives that could help turn the tide for Te Pēwhairangi. These include kelp forest restoration, strengthening the dolphin sanctuary, improved catchment management in the Taumārere River, a broadened response to invasive Caulerpa, and new approaches to marine eco-tourism. Marine users could also contribute more towards the costs of marine restoration.
“The Bay of Islands could once again have healthy and productive marine ecosystems if hapū and the community come together to take decisive action now. Our case study points to some practical, locally grounded options that could make a significant difference,” concluded Ms Peart.
The Bay of Islands case study was supported by the Michael and Suzanne Borrin Foundation. Read the case study here.
Environmental Defence Society
EDS speaks for the environment. It has influence.
Since 1971, EDS has been driving environmental protection in Aotearoa New Zealand
through law and policy change. That's why it's one of this country's most influential non-
profit organisations when it comes to achieving better environmental outcomes.
EDS has expertise in key disciplines including law, planning, landscape and science. It
operates as a policy think-tank, a litigation advocate, and a collaborator – bringing together
the private and public sectors for constructive engagement.
EDS runs conferences and seminars on topical issues, including an annual Environmental
Summit and the Climate Change and Business Conference.
EDS is a registered charity and donations to it are tax-deductible.
Gordon Campbell: On How US Courts Are Helping Donald Trump Steal The Mid-Terms
Forest And Bird: Government Biodiversity Credit Scheme Welcomed As Opportunity For Restoration
Office of the Ombudsman: Ombudsman Publishes Findings On Ministry Of Education Sensitive Claims Scheme
Nelson City Council: Mayor Welcomes Auditor-General Decision Not To Prosecute Councillor
Johnnie Freeland: Ko Tātou Tātou - Climate Action In Aotearoa Begins With Relationship
Zero Waste Network Aotearoa: Container Return Scheme Bill Would Double Recycling Rates And Put Money Back In Households
Wellington City Council: Statement From The Wellington Mayoral Forum On Options For Regional Governance Reform
