September 19th, 2024
Our Freshwater 2023 report, published on Wednesday by Stats NZ and the Ministry of Environment, unveils concerning data on the state of New Zealand's freshwater environment. The pressures on lakes, rivers, and groundwater are impacting water quality, ecosystems, and communities throughout the nation.
Declining ecosystem health
According to the key findings of Our Freshwater 2023, 36% of lake monitoring sites showed improvement, while 45% worsened between 2011 and 2020, based on nutrient and algae-level measures of ecosystem health. Furthermore, the report indicates that 48% of New Zealand's river network is at least partially inaccessible to migratory fish, and about two-thirds of freshwater native bird species were either threatened with extinction or at risk of becoming threatened in 2021.
Rising pollution and health risks
Our Freshwater 2023 estimates that 45% of the country's total river length is unsuitable for activities like swimming, due to models of campylobacter infection risk between 2016 and 2020. The report also states that wastewater service providers reported over 4,200 overflows caused by wet weather events or blockages and failures during dry weather in the 12 months from July 2020 to June 2021.
Impacts on communities and Te Ao Māori
People's health is put at risk by pollution from sources such as wastewater overflows and livestock run-off, as explained by Our Freshwater 2023. Moreover, the report highlights that extreme weather events that cause flooding can dramatically affect communities and infrastructure. The degradation or threat to freshwater and the life it supports also impacts Mātauranga, mahinga kai, wellbeing, and other vital aspects of te ao Māori.
Challenges to freshwater species and recreation
Our Freshwater 2023 points out that excess nutrients can lead to algal blooms and other harmful effects on freshwater species and ecosystems, restricting people's recreational use of lakes and rivers. Additionally, the report identifies that structures like dams, weirs, and flood pumps can adversely affect fish populations by hindering their ability to migrate and breed.
Call for action and informed decision-making
The Our Freshwater 2023 report highlights the urgent need for clean and reliable water supplies for all New Zealanders and the economy. It consolidates various environmental indicators about freshwater to enable informed decision-making and prompt discussions about the present and future of New Zealand's water resources.
Urgent need for sustainable solutions
The report sheds light on the necessity for sustainable solutions to address the mounting freshwater crisis in New Zealand. Government agencies, industries, and communities must collaborate to develop and implement effective policies and practices to mitigate pollution, protect ecosystems, and ensure the availability of clean water for current and future generations.
Promoting sustainable farming practices
Our Freshwater 2023 acknowledges that efforts by farmers to reduce fertiliser use and keep stock out of waterways have already helped decrease the amount of phosphorus and sediment reaching rivers between 1995 and 2015. However, due to the growth in the number of farms, the total amount of nitrogen reaching rivers has increased. The report implies that encouraging sustainable farming practices, such as precision agriculture, riparian planting, and improved manure management, could further alleviate the impact of agriculture on freshwater ecosystems.
Investing in water infrastructure
The report emphasises the importance of investment in water infrastructure, such as upgrading wastewater treatment plants, stormwater systems, and water supply networks, to reduce pollution and overflows. Improved infrastructure can help prevent waterborne diseases, protect public health, and ensure the availability of clean water for both urban and rural communities.
Conserving freshwater ecosystems
The Our Freshwater 2023 report highlights the significance of enhancing the conservation and restoration of freshwater ecosystems to support the recovery of native species and maintain biodiversity. This may include the removal or modification of structures like dams and weirs that impede fish migration, habitat restoration projects, and the establishment of protected areas to conserve vulnerable species.
Public awareness and community engagement
Increasing public awareness and community engagement in freshwater conservation efforts is a key recommendation of Our Freshwater 2023. Encouraging participation in local restoration projects, educational campaigns, and water stewardship programs can empower individuals and communities to actively contribute to the preservation of their freshwater resources.
Collaborative and long-term approach
Addressing the complex challenges of freshwater management in New Zealand requires a holistic, long-term, and collaborative approach, as suggested by Our Freshwater 2023. Stakeholders from various sectors, including government, industry, communities, and Māori, must work together to develop and implement comprehensive strategies that ensure the sustainability, resilience, and health of the nation's freshwater resources for generations to come.
Related data visualisation