Sustainability in New Zealand

Summary Appendix Four

Sustainability is an important issue and businesses around the world are expected to do their share in reducing the impact of their actions on the environment and be more efficient with the world's resources.

Businesses develop sustainable practices so as to benefit themselves three reasons are "A reflection of Management Values", "Greenwashing" and lastly" The opportunity to exploit a sustainable niche".

Sustainability is important in New Zealand, Helen Clark addressed this in 2007. For us to achieve sustainability there are 3 long term strategies that need to be addressed. One: "To build a sustainable economy", Two: "To sustain Family and community living standards" and Thirdly: "Sustain our unique culture, values and natural identity". New Zealand's society is now seeing the need for businesses to deliver goods and services in the most sustainable way possible.

The government play a huge part in achieving sustainability in New Zealand. New Zealand is involved with a major initiative called Kyoto Protocol which deals with Greenhouse Effects. NZ is also one of the countries responsible for 55% of global carbon emissions and therefore signed the Rio Declaration and encourages businesses to get behind Emissions/Biodiversity Exchange.

Non Government organisations include the New Zealand Business Council for Sustainable Development who also provides leadership in achieving a sustainable economy.

New Zealand is known for its "Clean Green Image" therefore various industries are working together to apply sustainable practises to meet the expectations of the large tourism market New Zealand attracts. Kaikoura was the first place ever to receive a certification for ecotourism policies for its zero waste, reduced co2 emissions and its efficient use of energy.

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