Power of NGOs waning?

It is a question posed by David Zurak, also known as The Risk Monger, a retired professor, environmental-health risk analyst, science communicator, promoter of evidence-based policy and philosophical theorist on activists and the media.

He observes that the power of the NGO has waned – at least in the northern hemisphere where groups such as Extinction Rebellion and Just Stop Oil have formed out of frustration at the ineffectiveness of the NGOs.

From chasing whaling ships to sinking the Rainbow Warrior, to climate- related transition strategies, the NGOs have tried to be the voice of civil society and social justice. Zurak suggests that they have positioned themselves as “the thin green line protecting humanity from industry greed and corrupt institutions”.

Part of the problem has been the very success that the NGOs have had – in Zurak’s words, “The passion that drives environmental activists also contained their seeds of destruction”.

European restrictions on agricultural technologies meant farmers were unable to earn a living, and they took their tractors to cities in protest.

“Pushing too hard and fast in imposing transitions to electric vehicles, renewable energy and organic food, with no regard for the costs, actual environmental consequences or public interest have left green NGOs on the wrong side of public opinion”, says David Zurak. He suggests that they can no longer claim to be representing civil society, but rather an ideological affluent elite.

And each time the current Government proposes a change to allow increased productivity for the sectors that support the economy, there is an outcry from activists.

GE Free NZ, Greenpeace and the Soil Association reacted negatively to the announcement from the Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology, Judith Collins, that New Zealand will be reviewing the regulations around genetic technologies. Despite all the scientific and economic evidence, all three groups have proposed that regenerative, organic systems are the answer, therefore genetic technologies should be avoided.

Regenerative and organic systems are certainly the answer for some people in terms of philosophy, lifestyle, debtloading, the topo-climate in which they are operating and their neighbours (who might or might not be providing a buffer from pests and diseases). However, it has been shown both nationally and globally that yields tend to be reduced, and costs of production can be higher. Achieving a premium for the product offsets economic loss, but if all production systems are ‘regenerative organic’, how could there be a premium?

The Government’s aim in ending New Zealand’s nearly 30-year ban on gene technology outside the lab is to enable scientists “to make advances in healthcare, adapt to climate change, protect our unique environment, lift our agricultural productivity and boost exports”.

The change in rules outlined brings New Zealand into line with many other countries, including trading partner Australia, and establishes a regulator dedicated to assessing and managing potential risks to human health and the environment.

In launching the initiative, Minister Collins said that “The changes we’re announcing today will allow researchers and companies to further develop and commercialise their innovative products. It can also help our farmers and growers mitigate emissions and increase productivity, all of which benefits our economy”.

Building a stronger, more productive economy that lifts real incomes and increases opportunities for New Zealanders is an imperative for the Government and for New Zealanders.

A stronger economy will allow improved educational achievement and health services, as well as all the other public good activities supported through taxes.

In the future, Zurak suggests that NGOs will continue to exist in one form or another, but their influence and impact will no longer be felt, their campaigns no longer trusted and their role in the policy process no longer necessary.

The New Zealand NGOs might learn from his observations; some members of society already have.

Dr Jacqueline Rowarth, Adjunct Professor Lincoln University, and educated as a Public Good Scientist, is a director of DairyNZ, Ravensdown and Deer Industry NZ. She is also a member of the Scientific Council of the World Farmers’ Organisation.