New initiatives for biodiversity and green growth

Three huge marine reserves, totalling 435,000 hectares will be established around New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands. The areas are recognised globally for the diversity of their marine life. Protecting the surrounding waters will add to the prestige of this area and its attraction as an eco-tourism destination.

http://beehive.govt.nz/release/subantarctic-islands-become-marine-reserves

The Government is proposing a National Policy Statement to protect indigenous biodiversity. The policy sets out our expectations on how local councils will protect rare and endangered species on private land. This delivers on National’s 2008 election promise, and our commitment to the Māori Party.

http://beehive.govt.nz/release/new-policy-proposed-protect-biodiversity

We have also established an Advisory Group on Green Growth. The group will look at how we can add value to our export industry, ensure smarter uses of technology and innovation, and assist small and medium-sized businesses to become more energy efficient.

http://beehive.govt.nz/release/green-growth-initiative-announced