Growing Green - Transformation of farming and forestry

Thursday, 19 July 2012, 8:37 am
Press Release: Environmental Defence Society

Growing Green - Transformation of farming, forestry and fishing

This not-to-be-missed event will explore whether the primary production sector needs to lift its game to maximize productivity and minimize its footprint.

Register now to secure your place!

One of our international speakers, Paul Gilding, will be introduced by Bruce Donnison, Group General Manager Global Sustainability at Fonterra Co-operative Group.

Paul will address the topic Feeding the world and saving the planet: can we do both?

Paul Gilding, Australia

Independent writer and advisor on a Sustainable Economy
Paul has spent 35 years trying to change the world, doing everything he can think of. He's served in the Australian military, chased nuclear armed aircraft carriers in small inflatable boats, plugged up industrial waste discharge pipes, been global CEO of Greenpeace, taught at Cambridge University, started two successful companies and advised the CEOs of some the world's largest companies.

Despite the clear lack of progress, the unstoppable and flexible optimist is now an author and advocate, writing his widely acclaimed book "The Great Disruption" which prompted Tom Freidman to write in the New York Times "Ignore Gilding at your peril".

The second session on Day One will address 'Greening Farming' and will be Chaired by Wayne McNee, Director-General and Chief Executive, Ministry for Primary Industries.

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Speakers include:

Resource use efficiencies of different pastoral farming models

Dr Ross Monaghan, Senior Scientist, Land and Environment, AgResearch

How regulatory agencies can assist with and incentivise adoption of farming best practice

Ciaran Keogh, Business Manager, Tonkin and Taylor; former Chief Executive, Environment Southland

Setting limits for freshwater

Alastair Bisley, Chair, Land and Water Forum

Followed by a panel discussion addressing : What are the opportunities for greening farming?

Panellists:

• Mike Barton, Taupo Beef; Trustee, Lake Taupo Protection Trust
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• Gifford McFadden, Dairy Farmer; Trustee, Rotorua Lakes and Land Trust
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• Hon Damien O'Connor, Labour Spokesperson for Primary Industries
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• Guy Salmon, Executive Director, Ecologic
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• Gert van't Klooster, Cubicle Dairy Farmer, Canterbury
Environmental Defence Society

ends

Environmental Defence Society

EDS speaks for the environment. It has influence.

Since 1971, EDS has been driving environmental protection in Aotearoa New Zealand through law and policy change. That's why it's one of this country's most influential non- profit organisations when it comes to achieving better environmental outcomes.

EDS has expertise in key disciplines including law, planning, landscape and science. It operates as a policy think-tank, a litigation advocate, and a collaborator – bringing together the private and public sectors for constructive engagement.

EDS runs conferences and seminars on topical issues, including an annual Environmental Summit and the Climate Change and Business Conference.

EDS is a registered charity and donations to it are tax-deductible.