A comprehensive snapshot of Auckland’s air, land, water quality and biodiversity — the State of the Environment report — was released today by Auckland Regional Council (ARC).
It paints a picture of continued rapid population growth and increasing strain on natural resources and infrastructure.
Councillor Paul Walbran, Chair of the Regional Strategy and Planning Committee urges the new super-city council to be prepared: “As our population and economy grows and intensifies, even greater pressure will be placed on our environment. It’s a big challenge and one that the new Auckland Council will have to tackle head-on.”
The report brings together data from monitoring and research programmes carried out over past decades by the ARC and other partnering agencies. It is the third such report since 1999, and it will be the last to be completed before the ARC hands over the reigns.
A full copy of the report is available here.
Media coverage
NZ Herald: Auckland: Our failing city
Stuff.co.nz (NZPA): Auckland’s growth putting strain on environment
Radio NZ News: Auckland region under environmental pressure – report
NZ Herald: Toxic metals on rise in inner harbours