November 28, 2001
"precautionary approach - all persons exercising functions, powers and duties under this Act… shall take into account the need for caution in managing adverse effects, where there is scientific and technical uncertainty about those effects" Section 7, Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act, 1996
What does 'precaution' mean when we are dealing with complex technical issues, with uncertain and potentially dangerous consequences? How cautious should we be with major environmental issues such as climate change, the exploitation of fisheries, biosecurity or the introduction of hazardous substances, new organisms and GMOs to New Zealand?
This seminar, hosted by ERMA New Zealand, will explore the 'precautionary principle' and will discuss how it is being used in environmental decision making in New Zealand. It has been organized as part of the Authority's public awareness programme.
Key notes speakers include: Rt Hon Sir Geoffrey Palmer, with Bas Walker, CEO of ERMA New Zealand, Barry Weeber of Forest and Bird, and Tikitu Tutua-Nathan on Maori views of 'precaution'.
Interest in the seminar has been strong, and registration has had to be closed off at 130 participants. Registrations have come from around the country and include private companies, government agencies and environmental groups.
The event will be held at the Urban Venue Theatrette, Ground Floor, BP House, Customhouse Quay, Wellington. Members of the news media are welcome to attend. Media passes will be available at the registration desk.
See details of the programme and speakers on our website.
Speakers' notes [where provided] are available on request from the organizer but all material is embargoed until Friday 30 November.
For further information contact:
Karen Cronin,
Project Manager, Communications
ERMA New Zealand
Tel: +64 4 496 4826