Environmental Policy

 
Social and economic disparities, rapid development, the increasing utilisation of natural resources, waste and pollution, an increasing human population and the ever-changing needs of a dynamic society are creating conservation challenges in Namibia.

NEWS strives towards a balance between the need for development, economic growth, and equality and the need to sustain a healthy environment.

NEWS does not intend to slow down or hamper development, but rather seeks positive dialogue and constructive co-operation with all stakeholders. NEWS disseminates environmental information in order to facilitate informed and positive decision-making at all levels - with the aim of achieving sustainable living and development.

NEWS does not have the capacity to take direct action on all environmental issues in Namibia, but rather focuses on monitoring issues by collecting and distributing information to facilitate positive action.

Where possible, NEWS collaborates with Partner Organisations and relevant stakeholders to address issues.

Sustainable Utilisation

In line with Namibia's general conservation approach, NEWS supports the sustainable utilisation of natural resources, including harvesting of animal and plant products within set limits.

With regard to the sustainable harvesting of animal products, NEWS emphasises that any killing operations should be conducted as humanely as possible.

We encourage an open mind in debating the issue of non consumptive vs. consumptive use of our natural resources. We support long-term, long-lasting solutions that benefit our people and our ecosystems, rather than short-term profits that deplete or diminish our resources and future options.

NEWS can neither verify nor refute reports of unsustainable or sustainable activities without consulting specialists in the field in question.

Priority Sectors

NEWS focuses on the following priority sectors with its activities. Climate change is not treated as an individual sector, as it is seen as an overarching issue relevant to all other sectors. It is understood that real achievements in most of the priority sectors will contribute directly to either slowing down climate change or mitigating its effects.

-Ecosystems Rehabilitation & Maintenance Sector
-Fauna & Flora Conservation & Utilisation Sector
-Energy & Water Efficiency Sector
-Poverty Alleviation Sector
-Pollution Reduction & Recycling Sector
-Infrastructure & Industry Mitigation Sector

 
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