It's thought New Zealand's achievement of water quality targets hinges on every Kiwi getting behind efforts.

A new report has evaluated four contaminants —nitrogen, phosphorus, E. coli, and sediment— in rivers, lakes, and estuaries nationwide.

Every region needs a substantial reduction in at least one to meet freshwater standards.

75% of land is contributing more E. coli to water than is allowed.

Cawthron Institute scientist, Roger Young, told Tim Dower that achieving targets could require land-use changes in some areas and mitigation work in others.

He says in those cases, fencing and wetlands enhancements and protections could be enough.

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It's thought New Zealand's achievement of water quality targets hinges on every Kiwi getting behind efforts. 
A new report has evaluated four contaminants —nitrogen, phosphorus, E. coli, and sediment— in rivers, lakes, and estuaries nationwide. 
Every region needs a substantial reduction in at least one to meet freshwater standards. 
75% of land is contributing more E. coli to water than is allowed. 
Cawthron Institute scientist, Roger Young, told Tim Dower that achieving targets could require land-use changes in some areas and mitigation work in others. 
He says in those cases, fencing and wetlands enhancements and protections could be enough. 
LISTEN ABOVE

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.