J
2252 days ago

The problem of plastic.

John from Woolston

We all know that plastic has become a huge problem world wide. The problem in our seas and waterways has to be addressed before it is too late. Perhaps a new industry could be started - fishing for plastic.
While any type of plastic is problematic if it is dumped in the environment, it is less so if it is either recycled or placed in licenced land fills.
Recently there has been a huge guilt pressure (by unthinking people) on supermarkets to do away with (single use plastic bags). Personally I believe they have picked the wrong target. So called single use plastic bags can be used over and over again and for a myriad of purposes and when they have fulfilled their purpose they can be responsibly disposed of. I take my plastic bags back week after week when I do my supermarket shopping and with care they last for ages.
I believe the problem that needs to be addressed are all the products that are prepacked and this doesn't only pertain to supermarkets - go to a hard ware shop ! THIS IS WHAT I WOULD DEEM AS BEING ONE USE PLASTIC and is what makes up the majority of plastic waste.
What do YOU think ?

More messages from your neighbours
2 hours ago

Poll: Is it okay to grocery shop in your PJs?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

I'm sure you've seen it while doing your weekly shop... In fact, it may have even been you.

What do you think about people heading to the supermarket in their pyjamas?

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Is it okay to grocery shop in your PJs?
  • 0% It's fine!
    0% Complete
  • 0% It's questionable
    0% Complete
  • 0% Other - I'll share below
    0% Complete
0 votes
1 day ago

Have your say on Canterbury’s public transport

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Canterbury residents are being encouraged to have their say on public transport in the region.

Environment Canterbury has released its draft public transport plan and is seeking submissions.

The draft plan outlines a vision for public transport in the region and notes key priorities such as improving the environment, growing patronage, accessibility, innovation and technology, and affordability.

‘‘Public transport takes many forms with communities across our region,’’ councillor Peter Scott said.

‘‘With limited funding available, we need to make sure we make the best decisions to deliver a public transport network that is integrated with urban development, innovative and meets the needs of new and existing customers.

‘‘Effective public transport is the lifeline that connects us to work, school, recreation and our friends and family, so it is important we get this right.’’

The Canterbury’s population is growing and by 2050, it is projected 700,000 people will be living in Greater Christchurch.

The draft plan covers public transport for the region, which includes the Metro service (Christchurch, Selwyn and Waimakariri), MyWay by Metro in Timaru, Total Mobility and Community Vehicle Trusts.

It was developed in partnership with local councils and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.

Environment Canterbury has been planning to step up its public transport efforts by increasing the frequency of existing services and introducing mass rapid transport in Greater Christchurch.

But these plans have been stalled by a lack of public transport funding in the Government’s 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme.

A proposal to allow people to travel with domestic pets is also included in the draft plan.

Having pets on buses has been successfully trial in other parts of New Zealand, councillor Joe Davies said.

‘‘We’re keen to understand what controls are needed for our bus users in Greater Christchurch and Timaru to be comfortable with pets on public transport.

It is proposed to allow adult passengers to bring a single pet on board, as long it is in an approved carrier at off-peak times, weekdays between 9am and 3pm or after 6pm, and during weekends.

Another proposal would loosen those restrictions in future to allow for leashed and muzzled dogs and increasing the limit to two pets per passenger.

‘‘We want to gauge how people feel about these proposals. Now is the time to have your say,’’ Davies said.

Submissions close on Thursday, October 24.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

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