WDC: Net-zero emissions by 2030 - but no emergency yet
As reported in this Northern Advocate article WDC aren't ready yet to follow the example of other councils and declare a climate emergency, but they will be making a largely supportive submission to the Government's Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment Bill. An amendment to the submission to include a statement to bring forward the net-zero emissions target to 2030 was carried with 8 votes in favour to 4 votes against (see section 6.8 in the council meeting minutes).
I live in the Bream Bay ward, and I'm disappointed and disheartened that both councillors for my ward voted against that amendment and thus the more ambitious target, despite the fact that we have heavy high-emissions industry operating in our ward - who have already expressed their support for a transition to a low-emissions economy in a recent meeting of the Ruakaka Ratepayers Association.
Local elections are coming up soon ...
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84% Yes
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14.7% No
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1.3% Other - I'll share below
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.