Environmentalists

Press, 23 June 1981, Page 16

Environmentalists

Sir,—The views expressed by the president-elect of the Manufacturers’ Federation, Mr Christie (“The Press,” June 20), are based on the assumption that large industrial projects will benefit New Zealanders (as distinct from the shareholders of multi-nationals). Some of the severest questions levelled at these major projects have come from economists and not from environmentalists (unless, of course, Mr Christie is using the label “environmentalist” to cover anyone opposed to a particular project). Quite apart from the short-term viability of a particular industry is the longterm consequence for this country's future. By emphasising the rapid exploitation of non-renewable resources Mr Christie is clearly ignoring the needs of future generations. In contrast, environmentalists have emphasised the finiteness of New Zealand’s (and the world’s) resources and have sought economic policies that would be sustainable into the future.—Yours, etc., WENDY BROWNE, ROGER BROWNE. June 21, 1981.