Session Description
The Past: Impact assessment (IA) was first introduced into New Zealand in 1974, and was mainly focused on central government projects; it was not supported by legislation. In 1991, after a lengthy process of consultation, the Resource Management Act was passed: IA was now mandated and integrated with development control processes at local and regional level, so completely changing IA in New Zealand.
However, while IAs have informed local decision making for resource consents, they have tended to focus more on the natural and physical environments. SIA, HIA and Cultural IA have struggled to be recognised over the years. Moreover, cumulative assessment is poor. At higher levels of decision-making SEA is not formally recognised through legislation, though some ad hoc SEA processes have emerged.
The Present: The last decade has seen moves to replace the RMA, an Act widely viewed as weak on environmental protection, while also a brake on resource development. New legislation is currently being developed, but although impact assessment still figures in the new legislative proposals, there are significant limitations.
Possible futures: As new legislation is rolled out, can past experiences inform improvements in IA practice at the project level, including better treatment of cumulative impacts? Will there be opportunities to promote the use of SEA and contribute to wider issues such as climate change adaptation planning, or managing regional land use changes and resource challenges such as water resource management? And will IA education be able to supply the practitioners required? Can we take the lessons of the past and shape the future of IA in New Zealand?
Session Summary
With over 50 years of IA experience, and as new legislation is being developed, can we take the lessons of the past and shape the future of IA in New Zealand? From development control to spatial plans and climate change adaptation, how will IA of all types contribute?
Session Chair
Richard Morgan
University of Otago
New Zealand