Premium
Ecological modernization versus sustainable development: the case of genetic modification regulation in New Zealand
Author(s) -
Wright Jeanette,
Kurian Priya
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
sustainable development
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.115
H-Index - 64
eISSN - 1099-1719
pISSN - 0968-0802
DOI - 10.1002/sd.430
Subject(s) - modernization theory , ecological modernization , sustainability , sustainable development , institutionalisation , hazardous waste , process (computing) , environmental planning , environmental resource management , business , political science , environmental ethics , ecology , economics , environmental science , computer science , biology , law , philosophy , operating system
Ecological modernization and sustainable development are the two dominant paradigms in environmental policy. This paper assesses the implications of competing understandings of ecological modernization and sustainable development using the case of genetic modification regulation in New Zealand. Although the New Zealand regulatory framework embraces the symbolic language of sustainability, it ultimately adheres to a narrow notion of ecological modernization. By adopting a technically driven risk management process and a diluted precautionary approach, alongside limiting public input into decision‐making on genetic modification, it undercuts its commitment to sustainable development definitionally and procedurally. Analysis of the New Zealand biotechnology policy regulatory framework, which consists of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act and the Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA), shows how institutionalization of a narrow conception of ecological modernization can preempt real commitment to sustainable development. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.