These OPs are the main components of widely used insecticides, pesticides and herbicides in NZ. They have been banned in numerous jurisdictions including the EU and US, due to evidence of significant adverse environments on people and the environment. However, there is an almost complete lack of evidence on the effects of these OPs on NZ’s environment, indigenous taxa and habitats. There is also a lack of evidence on the benefits and economic costs of continuing/discontinuing their use. In ELI’s view, this evidence is crucial to undertaking an informed reassessment. Without it, the EPA should follow the HSNO Act and apply a precautionary approach to its regulation of these hazardous substances.

Wetlands are one of New Zealand’s most ecologically valuable, and highly threatened, ecosystems. Since European settlement, more than 90% of our wetlands have been lost to urban or agricultural development. Protecting the few wetlands that we have left is of paramount importance for Aotearoa’s climate resilience, biodiversity, human health and community wellbeing. Read our submission to MfE on their recent proposals to shift wetland regulations, making it easier for industries to destroy wetlands.

New Zealand lags behind other OECD nations in its regulation of hazardous substances. Many chemicals banned overseas continue to be used daily in NZ. ELI therefore supports the aim and purpose of the HSNO Amendment Bill. Any improvements to the hazardous substances regulatory regime are to be welcomed.

ELI has lodged a submission on the Freshwater farm plan regulations proposals. Our key concern is that the Government’s proposed Freshwater Farm Planning system is putting the cart before the horse, and in doing so risks the integrity of both our immediate and longer term limits set to protect and restore our freshwater.

Read our submission on the EPA's call for information on Glyphosate use in NZ - the active ingredient in approximately 90 herbicidal products.

Why the NBEB must be redrafted to ensure a pivotal role for independent science.

The government has released the first exposure draft of the Natural and Built Environments Bill (NBEB). The draft provides an early look into key aspects of the proposed Act, which is one of three new pieces of legislation set to replace the controversial Resource Management Act of 1991. ELI investigates whether the Bill will deliver where the RMA could not.

The role of our wetlands in climate change mitigation & response.

Read a study exploring the key reasons for ongoing wetland loss in NZ.