1. NZ Forest Policy Project Working Party 5 Regulatory Framework Led by Andrew McEwen

2. Purpose of Paper To develop some objectives that might form part of a NZ forest policy. They are in the assumptions (paras 8-14) and recommendations (paras 106-110) sections. These are the only sections really relevant to any final policy document To provide some background material and examples to explain how/why the recommendations were formed.

3. Policy Assumptions Optimise/maximise benefits forests deliver to NZ’s economy, environment & society. This assumes: – More and healthier forests – Protection of forests – Forests contributing to climate change mitigation/adaptation – Encourage private investment in forests and processing – Increased domestic processing, use of wood and wood products – Greater species diversity – More woody vegetation on eroding and unstable land using suitable species and accepting much will be non-commercial forest

4. What is the Regulatory Framework? Taken a very broad view to cover all the constraints imposed on society (through governments and other agencies) on those who own or manage forests and the products that come from forests Includes international constraints through UN conventions, trade agreements, trade barriers, certification schemes, standards, other countries legislation, etc. Domestically includes legislation, regulations, statutory plans, policies, standards, codes of practice, subsidies, accords, etc.

5. Paper Contents Commentary on NZ regulatory framework Outline of international regulatory instruments that impact on NZ forests and forestry Examples of relationship between policy and regulatory framework Aspects of NZ regulatory framework Range of examples, international and domestic, where there are (apparently) unnecessary constraints/cost on forests and forestry activity

6. Recommendations Design of regulatory instruments works best when it is within an accepted policy General expectations of regulatory framework: – Effective – Simple – Free from bias – Relevant to NZ – Comprehensive & cohesive – Sustainable – Stable – Scientifically supportable – Enforceable