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Substantial contaminant reductions needed in NZ's freshwater sources

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Thu, 30 Nov 2023, 9:27am
The Avon River Christchurch photo. (Getty Images)
The Avon River Christchurch photo. (Getty Images)

Substantial contaminant reductions needed in NZ's freshwater sources

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Thu, 30 Nov 2023, 9:27am

It's thought New Zealand's achievement of water quality targets hinges on every Kiwi getting behind efforts. 

A new report has evaluated four contaminants —nitrogen, phosphorus, E. coli, and sediment— in rivers, lakes, and estuaries nationwide. 

Every region needs a substantial reduction in at least one to meet freshwater standards. 

75% of land is contributing more E. coli to water than is allowed. 

Cawthron Institute scientist, Roger Young, told Tim Dower that achieving targets could require land-use changes in some areas and mitigation work in others. 

He says in those cases, fencing and wetlands enhancements and protections could be enough. 

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