è Threats to Westland's environment as a result of insensitive developments and activities.
Background
Westland is internationally renowned for its outstanding natural landscapes and pristine water environments. This clean, green image is one which the Council wishes to promote as it provides the community with a sense of identity and pride and leads to financial benefits from tourism.
In order to ensure that Westland remains widely recognised as clean and green, the Council will seek to ensure that the effects of activities which directly threaten this image are avoided, or where this is not practicable, that such activities are mitigated. For example, the Council (in conjunction with the Regional Council) will seek to control hazardous waste or developments which could contaminate land.
The Council realises that international issues such as depletion of the ozone layer, global warming and rising sea levels may have an impact on Westland. The Council is supportive of efforts to research the effects these may have. The Council also expresses its support for the terms of the New Zealand Nuclear Free Zone, Disarmament and Arms Control Act 1987 and will not support the introduction of nuclear energy, the manufacture and production of radioactive material, nor the disposal of waste products resulting from the use of radioactive materials.
The Council wishes to encourage local efforts to enhance the clean, green image of Westland. Initiatives to reduce, reuse or recycle waste for example will be supported. Reduction and reuse are most effective as they avoid having to deal with unnecessary waste. Provision of recycling facilities at major refuse sites will be supported where the material is self-sorted and can be put to good use.
The Council would also like to see energy saving measures such as energy efficient design and insulation but believes that the costs of rules on this basis outweigh the benefits and thus relies on individual action.
Objective
3.3.1 To recognise and promote Westland's image as a clean, green District.
Reasons
è Recognises the value of Westland's character for the well-being of the community and as a tourism asset.
è Aids in sustaining natural and physical resources.
