What's new: chemical management changes, eDNA kits sent across NZ ...and NOT new organisms
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Te Pūtara
e-panui
April 2021
What's new (and not) at the EPA
Welcome to the April edition of Te Pūtara, with all the latest news from the Environmental Protection Authority:
- it's two weeks until a major revamp of New Zealand's chemical management regime
- 200 groups have joined our eDNA community science programme
- we're looking into which species should not be considered "new" organisms
- and farewell to Professor Nick Roskruge, after 13 years of service to the EPA.
We're always keen to know what you'd like to hear about. If you have ideas for the next edition, email korero@epa.govt.nz.
Countdown to chemical management changes
A revamped regime for classifying hazardous substances takes effect on 30 April, in the interests of safety for all.
Something's in the water
More than 200 community groups, hapū and kura around the country have signed up to our environmental DNA (eDNA) programme – Wai Tūwhera o te Taiao – Open Waters Aotearoa.
Varroa destructor: not welcome, but not "new".
What's not new?
We're asking for input on which organisms should no longer hold regulatory status as “new” because they are effectively resident in New Zealand.
Thank you, Professor Nick Roskruge
We want to acknowledge Professor Nick Roskruge, who retired from the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Committee last month.
He was a member of the committee for seven years. Before that, he served six years on Ngā Kaihautū Tikanga Taiao, the EPA's Māori advisory committee.
Latest news
Check out the Latest news section of our website for media releases and news articles, such as:
Upcoming events
We're gearing up for Fieldays at Mystery Creek from 16-19 June. We're planning to have an open space where you can come discuss what matters to you when it comes to the environment. Hope to see you there!
We'll also be at the Healthy in the Hutt event in Lower Hutt, on 19 June. Our Safer Homes stand will have information, giveaways, and even a face painter.
Then in July, we'll be at Victoria University for Ngā Here: Many Connections. This is a free networking event, run by Forest and Bird Youth Wellington.
Safer Homes, safer environments
Learn about changes you can make to reduce the impact of your household chemicals on our environment, to protect it now and for future generations.
