Volume One 2. Background The data and information gathered in this monitoring allows an assessment as to whether environmental qu ality is improving, remaining the same or becoming degrade d. This information helps inform the community about the condition of the environment and the key pressures it faces and assists decision makers in resource allocation and the consequences of actions. Importantly, it can help us assess how well the policies and methods of the MEP are working in practice, essentially closing the loop in the 'Plan-Do-Monitor-Review' cycle (see Figure 2.1). Plan Environmental Policy Review Do Environmental Resource Policy and Consents and Environmental Compliance Science & Group Monitoring ontor Environmental Science & Monitoring and Compliance Group Figure 2.1: Plan-Do-Monitor-Review Cycle The gathering of monitoring information is integrated between a number of sections within the Council (Compliance, Consents, Policy, Assets and Services) and is reported to meet both local and national level requiremen ts. At times we do not fully understand our natural resources or the environmental issues that continue to change due to various pressures. Investigations are undertaken on key issues to improve our understanding of natural resources, which enables us to provide information to help inform the community and our own RMA policy development to promote the sustainable management of Marlborough’s resources. Resource investigations are undertaken internally and by external providers. Collaboration and an integrated approach between councils, government agencies and research organisations help deliver effective and efficient services. Where, through subsequent analysis of monitoring and/or investigations one or more of the following situations arise, the Council may need to undertake a review of the provisions of the MEP to ensure that the sustainable management purpose of the RMA is achieved: • monitoring effectiveness of the MEP identifies the need to enhance progress toward achieving anticipated environmental results; or • major resource management developments arise, such as significant amendments to the RMA or the adoption of national policy statements or national environmental standards that impact on the contents of the MEP; or • the results of new scientific work enhance the MEP and make provisions more certain for resource users; or • there is a need to reflect new or changing needs or issues of importance to Marlborough’s community. 2 – 11