The Wire with Joel

The Health Select Committee has given the go-ahead to the Smokefree Bill this week. The report makes additional recommendations such as limiting the number of tobacco retailers to no more than 600.

Yesterday, Action for Smokefree 2025 (ASH) released their Year 10 survey, which gave some insight into smoking amongst adolescents. The survey showed that smoking rates were declining, however, vaping rates were increasing. In addition, the survey a larger rise for Māori teens using tobacco.

Joe speaks to Professor Janet Hoek from the University of Otago, Wellington, on the matter.

A new report has called for a partnership with tangata whenua will be at the heart of our National Parks. Conservationists believe this could weaken the protection of the environment, while Iwi say it could end 135 years of alienation from their land. Joe spoke to Dr Nic Rawlence, from the Paleogenetics lab at the University of Otago, about how paleoecology and ancient dna could be beneficial. They also spoke about how a CT scan of a toothed bird fossil has possibly changed the history of modern birds.

The world is under growing pressure to find sustainable options to cut emissions. Using technologie to interfere in the climate and stop global warming is sounding more and more enticing. Technology entrepreneurs from around the globe claim to have the solutions using geo-engineering. What are those technologies and is it a good idea to use them? Do those technology solutions really lead to sustainable solutions? Or are we distracted by visions of a technological future and do they distract us from what is really needed: cutting emissions.

Daniel spoke with Cindy Baxter, an investigative researcher and policy advisor and she worked over 30 years on a range of environmental issues. 

Supermarket workers begin the initiation process for Fair Pay Agreements today, via their union. They are bargaining for wage increases as inflation continues to soar, along with wage progression and improved health and safety standards. While FPAs have garnered significant opposition from business associations and the Parliamentary right, the mood among supermarket workers is one of excitement, solidarity, and hope for future generations. 

Hanna spoke to Nerissa Harding, a supermarket worker and organiser with the Council of Trade Unions, about what prospects the negotiations hold for her, her co-workers, and the industry.