NZ environment at 'tipping point'

A think-tank report has taken a swipe at the New Zealand Government for failing the environment.

The Code Green report, issued by independent business think-tank Providence Report group, says New Zealand's standard of living is being eroded because of inaction from policymakers - who have pushed the environment to "tipping point".

Report co-author Sandy Callister said New Zealand was being left behind by the rest of the world in implementing environmentally friendly policies. It was time to enforce compulsory pollution taxes and bring in incentives to change behaviour.

Dr Callister and her fellow directors interviewed about 70 New Zealanders from scientific, political, agricultural and business backgrounds for the report. Code Green's target market is large companies which want to gain an understanding of environmental issues and the opportunities these create. Dr Callister said action needed to be taken now to prevent an environmental crash.

Climate Change Minister David Parker said "several important planks" in the Government's vision for tackling climate change would be released in the next fortnight.