Marlborough Sounds Resource Management Plan 7.4.1 Objectives and Policies Objective 1 Reduction of discharges into air of ozone depleting substances and greenhouse gases to a level which is consistent with central government initiatives and directives. Policy 1.1 Support and promote, as appropriate, central government initiatives to reduce discharges of ozone depleting substances and greenhouse gases. Policy 1.2 Provide input to central government on the effects of its policies on the Marlborough Sounds environment. Depletion of the ozone layer is a global issue. Initiatives and policies need to be co-ordinated on a national level within the framework of international protocols or agreements the government has signed, such as the Montreal Protocol. The Ozone Layer Protection Act 1990 (and its amendments) is Government’s main tool for implementation of protocol obligations. The role of the Council is primarily advocacy, promotion of public awareness and, implementing and monitoring national policies. It is difficult to predict how changes to the climate will impact on Marlborough except to suggest the region may become hotter and drier. Therefore many agricultural and horticultural practices may no longer be sustainable without significant irrigation. Equally significant is the potential impact of rises in sea level on the Sounds area. Central government has primary responsibility for co-ordinating the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in New Zealand, and has set a target which will hold net carbon dioxide levels at 1990 levels by the year 2000. 7.4.2 Methods of Implementation Liaison Liaise with the appropriate central government agencies to ensure consistency with central government air quality management initiatives. Education Promote the recovery, re-use and recycling of ozone depleting substances and encourage the use of alternative technologies where appropriate. Promote more efficient use of fuels and the use of less polluting fuels (eg; electricity rather than open fires for domestic heating), including fuels used in motor vehicles. Promote industrial and waste management practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Advocacy Provide local input to central government on the effects of its policies in Marlborough and the development of future government policy. Monitoring Monitor the changes in ambient air quality. 7 6