EDS welcomes EEZ announcement

Thursday, 2 June 2011, 1:45 pm
Press Release: Environmental Defence Society

EDS welcomes EEZ announcement

The Environmental Defence has welcomed the announcement at its
conference this morning by Hon Dr Nick Smith that government will be
legislating for environmental controls over the EEZ and continental
shelf.

“As we understand the proposal, it will give power to the EPA to make
activities permitted, discretionary or prohibited across the EEZ and
continental shelf, said EDS Chairman Gary Taylor.

“This means that there will be a proper planning regime out there for
the first time.

“It also means that if an application for a particular activity poses
unacceptable environmental risks, the EPA will be able to refuse
consent.

“This is the kind of regime EDS has been arguing for in its recent
policy papers.

“The only issue is around timing. We would prefer to see new law in
place as soon as possible, subject to allowing time for proper
scrutiny,” Mr Taylor concluded.

ends

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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.

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• Website - www.eds.org.nz
• Email - manager@eds.org.nz
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