Next Generation Conversation x Mana Mokopuna submission on waste legislation proposed amendments

Mana Mokopuna – Children and Young People’s Commission have had an ongoing relationship with Next Generation Conversation (NGC). NGC have partnered with the Chief Children’s Commissioner and Mana Mokopuna for many climate and environmental-related projects. This collaboration stems from our statutory mandate to promote the participation of children and young people in decisions that affect their lives.

NGC is a group of sixteen children and young people aged between 10 and 17 living in Ōtautahi/Christchurch. They have a strong interest in climate change and meet regularly to discuss policy issues and seek opportunities to engage and influence decision makers. With support from Mana Mokopuna, NGC developed and wrote a submission to the Ministry for the Environment on the proposed amendments to waste management.

The submission covers:

• The importance of children’s participation
• The need for change in waste management
• Solutions and recommendations to improve waste management in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Mokopuna have the right to be heard on important decisions, including things like the future of our waste management system! We know that climate change, pollution and the health of the planet are important issues to mokopuna.

We are excited to present this submission and amplify the expertise of NGC, who have done a lot of advocacy in this space.