NZPPI has made a submission to the Department of Conservation and Ministry for the Environment on the proposed biosecurity credits system.
The Government is exploring whether such a system could help to incentivise the protection and restoration of native wildlife in Aotearoa New Zealand. A biodiversity credit system would enable landowners who protect and restore native wildlife to earn credits for their actions.
MfE and DOC sought feedback on the need for and the design of a biodiversity credit system, and the different roles of government and Māori in implementing it. Full information on the proposal and consultation process is here.
NZPPI's submission supports a carefully designed Biodiversity Credits System (BCS) that encourages investment, ensures project success, and maintains integrity.
The submission's other main points are:
- Private land, including whenua Māori, should the primary focus for biodiversity projects, but a BSC should also consider projects on public land with private investment.
- Early credits for projects and activities should be awarded, along with ongoing credits over time, to acknowledge the time it takes for outcomes in natural systems to manifest.
- Research, training, and education in the nursery industry is needed to ensure successful projects and to develop the necessary skills in areas like propagation, plant health and biosecurity.
- Internationally accepted integrity and credibility principles should be adopted in the BCS, along with standards, compliance assessments, and monitoring and evaluation systems to drive impact and ensure trust in the results.
NZPPI's full submission is available below.