Green policies have gained momentum since the 1972 Stockholm Environment Conference. The environmental movement has influenced political initiatives both in New Zealand and abroad. Governments and international institutions have addressed local, regional and global environmental issues with varying degrees of success. New Zealand so far has not supported the United Nations' call for sustainable development in a,consistent manner._x000D_
New institutions and new rules for resource management mean there are opportunities to look after the land in different and more ecologically sensitive ways than has happened in the past._x000D_
The increasing influence of regional councils in resource management planning will have important implications for mining and mineral exploration. These trends are discussed and possible future events outlined.