As an immigrated European and scientist, I feel it is 5 minutes until 12 for our community to make an outcry around the current practise by the Port of Tauranga.

Tauranga now has the fifth highest use of methyl bromide in the world, and this toxic poison not being recaptured by GENERA is being released into the atmosphere at Mt Maunganui.

In 2010, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) mandated that methyl bromide be recaptured and destroyed in the process of all fumigation activities in New Zealand by October, 2020.

It is banned in other countries, but New Zealand, especially the Port of Tauranga, is using more toxic methyl bromide than ever.

This endangers not only workers at the port, also athletes training at Blake Park, cyclists, boaties, residents and members of sports clubs in close proximity to the port.

Now GENERA asks for an extension. In places like Picton, Nelson and Wellington its use was restricted after public campaigns; in Auckland the port has taken the lead by requiring all emissions to be recaptured.

However, the Port of Tauranga remains one of the largest methyl bromide users in the world. Does the BOP regional council take a soft approach because it hold the majority stake in the port?

Put a personalised submission to : [email protected] .

Dr G Hoetzel, Papamoa