Environment and Science

1 Oct

In Wellington we care about our environment, native wildlife, and the climate.

Because of our proximity to nature, coupled with nationally-significant tertiary institutions, Wellington is a city that can harness environmental science to improve people’s lives and grow our economy.

Progress has been made, but we need to improve on the gains that have been made and ensure a strong future for generations to come.

Andrew Little has a strong track record on the environment and climate, being a senior Minister in the Labour-led government that passed the Zero Carbon Act, and as a union leader championed a Just Transition for workers in high emission industries.

Council leadership

For environmental initiatives to succeed, Council must demonstrate strong leadership alongside the important work that volunteers and community groups do, and do well. Andrew will:

Support Te Atakura – First to Zero, Wellington’s plan to reduce emissions and become net zero by 2050, and support climate change adaptation.
Require that all major council decision papers will require a Community Impact Statement, which will include an account of the climate impact of any decision.
Work with other local and regional authorities to develop a regional climate plan.

Wellington: City of Science

Wellington has a highly educated population and world-class tertiary institutions. The talent and expertise to grow our economy and protect our unique biodiversity and environment are right here.

Wellington’s success in environmental and biodiversity initiatives, as the home of Zealandia, NIWA and Predator Free Wellington, has a strong foundation in our science-based industries. The city can draw on these strengths to become a centre of excellence for climate, environment and ecological sciences.

Andrew will champion our city’s great institutions and researchers to strengthen Wellington’s reputation as a ‘City of Science’; protecting our environment, growing well-paying jobs and helping to position the capital as a global leader in environmental science.

Conservation and Biodiversity

Wellington’s biodiversity is something we’re all rightfully proud of. This only comes from the hard work of many. We have kiwi being reintroduced to the hills of the city due to the work of Capital Kiwi, birdsong is growing thanks to the efforts of community conservation groups working to trap predators and plant trees, and of course the amazing work being done at places like Zealandia.

Andrew will:

Continue Council funding to Predator Free Wellington, to build on their successes.
Investigate a Council ‘green jobs’ programme for projects that includes native planting, and water restoration, in partnership with other groups.
Plant more trees to provide habitats for native birds, and provide shade for pedestrians.
Work with the new water entity to manage and reduce the impact of wastewater and stormwater runoff into Wellington’s waterways, coasts, and harbour.
Strengthen partnerships with community groups and iwi, to deliver better conservation outcomes.

Transport

Better public transport networks not only keep our wallets in better health and get us around quicker, but done right they also make a huge difference to emissions.