Integration of the environment and development in decision-making: Application of Agenda 21, chapter eight, to the Mount Cavendish gondola decision process: RESM 603 resource management case study

Abstract

Agenda 21 (Chapter 8) of the UNCED conference in Rio called on countries to integrate the environment and development in decision-making. This was in recognition of the importance of the interaction between economic, social, and ecological spheres in decision-making. This report conceptualises an integrated decision making process in terms of the five dynamics affecting the outcome of development decisions: values, law, public participation, information, and organisations. To enable the assessment of the New Zealand decision-making process in terms of our concept of integrated decision-making, we examine these five dynamics in a local case-study: the decision to allow the construction of the Mount Cavendish Gondola on the Pon Hills, Canterbury.