Good questions. NZ definitely imports more diesel and petrol compared to domestic crude exports. I been reading through some reports to glean some more facts to inform us all. So give me a few more days.

One contributing factor seems to be the cost and capacity of domestic refining in NZ compared to our sources of imported refined products.

One thing to keep in mind the stats I’m refering are export value stats which are sensitive to changes in the world price of crude (the world oil price has fallen below $90/bbl in the last few days) and exchange rates.

I like what you said Mike about statistics being a motivator. When you find out what is actually happening, it does provide motivation to change behaviour, and becomes less about rhetoric and more about factual evidence.

I remember when I first started work coming across the fact that in 2004 NZ produced 400kg per capita of household waste. This seemed really huge, considering it was only household waste and excluded business – more that 1 kg per person each day of the year!! It was actually one of those moments that converted me into caring more about environmental issues. (this probably just shows that I’m a geek…)

Dumb question… but do we export it as crude oil, and then import it as petrol? Is that why we import so much oil as well??

It is certainly a cause for concern, but let’s not get depressed, because depression cripples and consumes us. It takes courage to face reality, but understanding what’s on in NZ is vital making decisions and initiating change.

I have come to the conclusion that I may not be able to change the world. But I can change my life. I can change what I do or do not do; what I consume or create; what I take or contribute and how I live. In doing so I also may influence those around me.

Personally, I find stats like the one I’ve posted to be powerful motivaters to reconsider how I live and what kind of community I want to live in. We all play a small part in the future of New Zealand.

Maybe this all sounds a little cheesy. It cerntainly is it’s just empty talk or political retoric. But if such thoughts are sincere they can be powerful things.

To quote Anfrew Morrison in Just Living:
“By focusing on what’s working and what’s possible, rather than what is not, we can acknowledge and appreciate the precious people, stories and resources that make up our communities.”

A few days ago you posed the following question: “One thing I’m wondering is why, even when we know heaps, is action always so slow to follow?”

Well, the shocking fact that NZ is exporting oil crude has made me even more determined to live a more sustainable life. Small changes add up.

It’s a beautiful day people. How about walking home with a bunch of friends people! =) Wellington is a great city!