The Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) determines how natural and physical resources in New Zealand can be used, developed or protected.
Natural and physical resources include all aspects of the environment - rivers, lakes, coastal and geothermal areas, land, forests and farmland and air, as well as the built environment.
When was it introduced?
The RMA came into force on 1 October 1991, repealing over 50 other environmental statutes. Prior to its implementation, environmental issues were controlled by a variety of laws and administrative agencies.
Why was it needed?
Under these various laws and agencies, environmental management and protection was often uncoordinated and inefficient. The RMA sought to address these problems by providing a more comprehensive and integrated approach. The RMA amalgamated New Zealand's laws relating to land, air and water resources and provided a framework for addressing environmental issues in New Zealand.
What is the purpose of the RMA?
The RMA promotes the sustainable management of New Zealand's natural and physical resources.
What is sustainable management?
Sustainable management means:
Managing the use, development and protection of natural and physical resources in a way,which enables people and communities to provide for their social, economic, and cultural wellbeing and for their health and safety while:
Sustaining the potential of natural and physical resources (excluding minerals) to meet the reasonably foreseeable needs of future generations; and
Safeguarding the life-supporting capacity of air, water, soil and ecosystems; and
Avoiding, remedying, or mitigating any adverse effects of activities on the environment.
