Media Release

Tuesday 10th July 2007

DSC conference backs “eco-remits”

On the day of the Live Earth concerts, delegates attending the annual DSC conference in Christchurch last weekend voted to support a series of directional “eco-remits”.

“It is essential that alternative fiscal tools are employed to smooth the transition to a low carbon economy. The DSC has extended its Community Credit policy platform to the provision of funding to assist businesses, local authorities and other groups in making the transition to a carbon neutral status” said Stephnie de Ruyter, DSC Leader.

Ms de Ruyter said that grants and low or no interest loans would be issued by the Reserve Bank for projects which reduce reliance on fossil fuels and to establish eco-efficient industries.

“The potential application of this policy is wide-ranging. For example, local authorities could access low cost finance to invest in ecologically sound transport systems. Manufacturers could be financially supported to embody ecological principles in product design”she said.

“New Zealand’s 21st century evolution into a post-industrial society will offer new opportunities for innovation and the creation of new businesses, driven by the necessity for sustainable development. The key to sustainable development is the integration of economic goals with social and environmental aims. But the present reality is that here in New Zealand , as in most countries, economic policies are divorced from ecological realities.

“DSC policy puts the eco back in economy” concluded Ms de Ruyter.

ENDS

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