2020. It's all about perspective.
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Te Pūtara
e-panui
November 2020
2020 in perspective
Perspective is valuable. This year has delivered a fresh dose for all of us.
For many, our time in lockdown gave us new appreciation of the birds, plants and other wildlife near our own homes. And now we're looking ahead to a summer when most of us will stay local, rather than heading overseas. It's a chance to take in the natural wonders of Aotearoa, perhaps giving us new insight into our country.
We think our new community science initiative also offers a new perspective. The Wai Tūwhera o te Taiao – Open Waters Aotearoa programme connects people with nature. Using the latest science, it reveals the diversity of life in our neighbourhoods.
This issue of Te Pūtara has details about this programme, and other news from across the EPA's work.
Look out for our next issue in February 2021. Until then, I wish you happy holidays.
Kia pai te wā,
Allan Freeth, EPA Chief Executive
Wai Tūwhera o te Taiao – Open Waters Aotearoa
We're using environmental DNA to connect communities with science and their local environment, through exploration and discovery. Community groups and hapū have until 24 February to register their interest.
Chemical management updates coming in 2021
Find out about the new system, and new database, for hazard substance classifications. We're adopting a global system, tailored for Aotearoa.
Changes for the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS)
The ETS is changing. Some changes have already happened, and more are on their way. If you're a participant, make sure you know how they will affect you.
New experts to boost capacity
We've welcomed nine new decision-makers to our HSNO Committee, and four new members to Ngā Kaihautū Tikanga Taiao, our statutory Māori advisory committee.
Our year in review
Our latest Annual Report shows we're looking ahead to have a proactive role, with a focus on compliance and engagement.
Over the coming year we'll continue to develop our “proactive regulator” strategy and seek to involve more New Zealanders in our work.
Check out the Latest news section of our website for media releases and news articles, such as:
- the decline of an application to import a timber treatment that contains creosote
- a decision to further extend methyl bromide recapture deadline
- six more chemicals prioritised for reassessment.
See more in the Latest news section of our website
You can also check out our Events and activities section to find out what's coming up in our community engagement programme.
Safer Homes: online buying
Some products you can buy online, such as cosmetics and toiletries, may not meet New Zealand’s strict safety rules. They can pose a risk to you and the environment. With Christmas on its way, make sure you know what to watch for.
It's a risky business
Do you wait for green, or judge for yourself when to cross? We all weigh risks differently, and as our resident risk expert explains, these individual perspectives are something of a hazard when analysing risk.
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Wellington 6011
New Zealand
Contact: korero@epa.govt.nz
ISSN 2537-8546