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You are here: The issues

Environmental issues

Many of the big environmental issues for New Zealand in the first decade of the 21st century are also economic and public health issues. More sustainable use of water, managing marine resources, reducing waste, and improving our energy efficiency are all essential for creating wealth and quality of life as well as for environmental sustainability. However, the decline of our unique plants, animals and ecosystems is New Zealand’s most pervasive environmental issue.

New Zealand’s low population and limited industrial base means that our environmental issues are generally less severe than those in many other industrialised countries. However, we need to make progress with these issues if New Zealanders are to have the healthy environment and quality of life they want.

These pages outline the key environmental issues in New Zealand and the work that the Ministry has under way to address them – often in conjunction with other government agencies or local government. Local government has responsibility for day to day environmental management.