Biological diversity and the Resource Management Act 1991 : toward the implementation of the conservation and sustainable use objectives of the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity

Abstract

The Convention on Biological Diversity arose from the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development as a response to global concern over the rapid degradation of the earth's biodiversity. Because New Zealand ratified the Convention in 1993, it is now required to promote the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. It has been suggested that the Resource Management Act 1991 can go some way in meeting New Zealand's obligations under the CBD. However, because biodiversity is critically important for sustainability from both the perspective of humans and for the preservation of life on the planet, this assumption requires further investigation. The purpose of this project has been to identify the types of information needed to evaluate the performance of the RMA to meet the conservation and sustainable use objectives of the CBD. It is recommended that research is undertaken along three lines of enquiry:

• further research into the interpretation and implementation of the RMA, and the implications of this for biodiversity; (b) how local government agencies are addressing for biodiversity obligations; ( c) and how the RMA will be monitored and enforced to ensure its proper implementation. • further research into the guidance the CBD provides in relation to the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity with a view to developing evaluative criteria by which: (a) the RMA can be assessed; and (b) gaps and opportunities in New Zealand's legislative and administrative structure for the implementation of the CBD's objectives can be identified. • further research into 'general issues' relating to biodiversity management.