New Zealand is the world’s most peaceful nation, topping the “Global Peace Index” (GPI) for the second year running. The fourth annual GPI has been compiled by Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), a global think tank that looks at the relationship between economic development, business and peace In their latest index, the think tank suggests the world has become slightly less peaceful in the past year. (more…)
Speakers at the 2010 Environmental Defence Society (EDS) conference in Auckland this week included TIA Advocacy Manager Geoff Ensor. The theme of the conference was reform in paradise. It included robust sessions exploring adoption of ‘100% Pure’ as a marketing tagline for all sectors of the country and the implications of rural, coastal and urban reform. Geoff talked about decision-making at a local level, the role of central government in those decisions and some thoughts about a clear vision for the future. “New Zealand is the brand and our unique environment is integral to the strength enjoyed by the brand. It’s critical that central and local government regard protection and enhancement of the environment as core business, to do otherwise is to risk our international reputation and the quality of life for future generations,” he said. (more…)
Theresa Gattung, in her presentation to the Textiles NZ Conference last week, showed us the long-term price curve for New Zealand wool. A sad and steady decline over the long term, even in nominal terms, let alone allowing for our enormous interest rates. Theresa went on to expound her logical vision for NZ wool. We are the world’s largest trader of natural wool fibres. Most of the world uses synthetic material for carpet making. Our advantage lies in the story of natural fibres from a natural production enviornment. The 70 delegates to the Conferece felt it was a no-brainer that New Zealand should develop and build on its Clean & Green brand in export markets. (more…)