Another excellent year for Landcare Research

Landcare Research has published its third triple bottom line annual report, summarising strong financial, environmental and social performances. The report has been fully verified by independent parties.

It outlines continuing robust financial performance, with revenue of $42.68 million, and an operating surplus of $3.46 million for the year ending June 2003.

Chief executive Andy Pearce says the report also highlights some of the many science projects that are making a difference for a clean, green New Zealand.

"These include research conducted in partnership with the Department of Conservation, and also with Tuhoe.

"We highlight research on weta, stoats, soils, and weeds, environmental solutions to urban growth problems, and greenhouse gas emissions.

"We profile our sustainable business enterprises. EBEX21® (Emissions Biodiversity Exchange) strongly influenced Government policy on New Zealand's CO2 budget, which now recognises the value of regenerating forest for carbon storage. Also, our Enviro-Mark®NZ programme is now being used by more than 70 organisations. This environmental, health and safety certification is specifically adapted for New Zealand legislation and business.

"Additionally, we report our progress toward reducing the environmental impacts of our work. This includes moves to offset our own CO2 emissions, and reduce air travel and paper use. "We also outline aspects of our work environment that contribute to the well-being of our staff, and help them achieve the excellent science that they produce."

The report was printed with vegetable inks on 100% recycled paper. Those wanting to avoid the use of paper altogether can see it on the website: www.LandcareResearch.co.nz Landcare Research is one of nine Crown Research Institutes, and focuses on the sustainable development of New Zealand's resources.

"We continually strive to create wealth for New Zealand through our focus on caring for the land and the people," Dr Pearce says. ENDS

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