September 17th, 2024
Greenpeace Aotearoa has voiced serious concerns regarding nitrate contamination in the water supply of Darfield and Kirwee, after recent testing revealed levels around 5 mg/L of nitrate. These figures alarmingly approach the threshold associated with increased reproductive risks, such as preterm births and low birth weights. The environmental group is urging immediate action from Environment Canterbury and the New Zealand Government to address the contamination, largely attributed to intensive dairy farming practices in the region.
The big picture: Nitrate levels a cause for alarm
Recent water tests in Darfield and Kirwee have shown nitrate levels at 5 mg/L, with some private bores exceeding the official health limit of 11.3 mg/L. This contamination raises significant health concerns, including potential reproductive issues and an increased risk of colorectal cancer at much lower levels of nitrate.
Zoom in: The impact on local communities
Greenpeace spokesperson, Gen Toop, criticised the current situation, pointing out the danger to public health and the apparent failure of authorities to protect drinking water from agricultural pollutants. The presence of elevated nitrate levels in rural communities like Darfield indicates a broader issue linked to the rise in cow populations and the use of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers.
“Canterbury’s water is particularly prone to nitrate contamination,in part because of the explosion in cow numbers and synthetic nitrogen fertiliser use in the region. Cow urine and synthetic fertiliser can leach through the soil and into the groundwater, and eventually end up in people’s drinking water,” said Toop in a media release from Greenpeace Aotearoa.
What's happening: Calls for action
Greenpeace is demanding a reduction in the use of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers and a decrease in cow numbers in Canterbury to tackle the source of the contamination. The organization also emphasizes the need for stricter regulations on nitrate levels in drinking water, advocating for a maximum allowable value of 1 mg/L to protect public health.
What’s next: Government under scrutiny
With the Government planning to overhaul New Zealand’s freshwater protections, Greenpeace is cautioning against any reduction in current standards, especially given the involvement of Andrew Hoggard, a former Federated Farmers lobbyist, in the reform process. The organization is calling for sustained, effective measures to safeguard water quality for all communities