Careful owner

Ron Marriott - forest restorer & local community advocate

"Looking after our environment and reducing the effects of climate change will preserve the New Zealand we love for future generations and also has the potential to make us money," says eco-tourism operator Ron Marriott.

Ron's vision for New Zealand is one of environmental excellence, "where we do everything with a constant regard for the environment and where we market it well, so that we actually get paid for doing it".

Ron operates an eco-lodge in the Marlborough Sounds, where tourists can enjoy a small slice of New Zealand paradise. However, his primary focus is on developing his native wildlife sanctuary.

Originally, Ron's 2,000 hectare property was used for pastoral farming. But over the last decade he and his family have phased out farming and are working on a number of projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including restoring forests and trading in their carbon credits. Ron also gives talks to his local community in an effort to spread the word about the possible effects of climate change.

"We are environmentally responsible. We use our property for the benefit of our local environment, indeed the world environment, and we take advantage of the strong consumer desire for that.

"We can all take steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions such as supporting reusable energy-generation like wind power, composting organic waste, using cars less and practicing energy efficiency," he says.

"It is a privilege to live in New Zealand and, if we want to continue enjoying it, we have to start doing something about it. New Zealand has been an inspiration to other countries in many areas and I believe we can lead the way again through promoting environmental responsibility and sustainability.

"The environment is an area where every single person can make a real difference. Along the way there are significant benefits to be gained for businesses, individuals and households."

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