For 50 years the well being of nations throughout the world has been measured and compared by using Gross Domestic (or National) Product (GDP). It is mainly concerned with the total amount of cash flowing in an economy. The more GDP rises, the better the overall welfare of the nation or community is assumed to be.
In 1968 Sen. Robert F. Kennedy said in a speech:
“Gross National Product includes air pollution and ambulances to clear our highways from carnage. It counts special locks for our doors and jails for the people who break them. It grows with the production of napalm and missiles and nuclear warheads.... It includes... the broadcasting of television programs which glorify violence to sell goods to our children. (But) there is much that it does not comprehend. It does not allow for the health of our families, the quality of their education, or the joy of their play. It is indifferent to the decency of our factories and the safety of our streets alike."
GPI's have been developed around the world and every country seems to approach it in a slightly different way. Canada is very advanced in this work and there are two GPIs that have been developed.
Canada - Nova Scotia http://www.gpiatlantic.org/
Canada - Alberta http://pubs.pembina.org/reports/gpi_blueprint.pdf
Wellington Region GPI
One of the key elements of the Wellington Regional Strategy (WRS) is sustainable economic growth and ensuring a high quality of life for residents and newcomers. The WRS document sets out how the Strategy will be monitored, utilising a Genuine Progress Index (GPI). It should be recognised that the GPI is not the only tool for monitoring the success of the WRS, and that there are aspects of the strategy that are unable to be quantified such as the value of inter-agency collaboration and information-sharing.
A working group has been established to progress the Wellington region GPI. Representatives from each of the region's councils and other organisations with an interest in GPI, comprise the GPI working group. The framework for the regional GPI is based on the WRS Outcomes. (See below for Community Outcomes)
There is an opportunity for the region’s GPI to be developed in such a way that it can eventually replace the monitoring of regional LTCCP community outcomes. It is planned that the Wellington region GPI will have the ability to be built on and further developed over time. Its main focus is to provide a regional picture.
The GPI working group has determined a two-phase process for developing the GPI.
Phase 1: development of a GPI monitoring framework
Phase 2: undertaking full cost accounting of selected accounts (decision to proceed yet to be decided).
Indicators
An indicator framework has been finalised to form the basis of the GPI. The WRS Committee adopted this framework on 17 March 09 and data is currently being gathered on the measures outlined. For the committee's report read more....
See Indicators for Wellington Region GPI
See Summary Rationales for Indicators for Wellington Region GPI
Where appropriate, indicators in the GPI may be able to be aggregated up or disaggregated to a territorial authority level. The GPI is not intended to replace any territorial authority LTCCP community outcomes process, but has the potential to provide a useful baseline for individual councils when selecting core indicators.
The GPI working group has developed a set of indicator criteria to assist with indicator selection for the GPI. In determining the criteria, the working group analysed a number of other criteria from central and local government including Statistics NZ, Quality of Life, Te Puni Kokiri and other regional councils.
See Selection Criteria for Indicators
Indicators used in the Wellington region GPI will largely come from existing sources (e.g. Statistics New Zealand, Quality of Life survey, Ministry of Social Development Social Report, Ministry of Health surveys). The GPI working group is recommending that when analysing whether or not an indicator is appropriate for the GPI that as a rule of thumb, greater importance be given to the following indicator selection criteria:
• reliable
• valid
• repeatable
• shows change
• leading indicator
The inclusion of Tangata Whenua-specific measures (recognising the special role of Tangata Whenua in the Wellington region) has been discussed with Greater Wellington’s iwi advisory group Ara Tahi . As representatives of the region’s iwi, Ara Tahi are very interested in the development of the GPI and have recommended that tangata whenua-specific indicators be included.
Community Outcomes
The high level outcomes we want from a sustainable growth strategy are:
Prosperous Community
All members of our community prosper from a strong and growing economy. A thriving business sector attracts and retains a skilled and productive workforce.
Connected Community
Our connections and access are efficient, quick and easy - locally, nationally and internationally. Our communication networks, air and sea ports, roads and public transport systems are world class and enable us to link well with others, both within and outside the region.
Entrepreneurial and Innovative Region
Innovation, creativity and new endeavours are welcomed and encouraged. Ideas are exchanged across all sectors, resulting in a creative business culture. We have excellent education and research institutions, and benefit from being the seat of government.
Healthy Environment
We have clean water, fresh air and healthy soils. Well functioning and diverse ecosystems make up an environment that can support our needs. Resources are used efficiently. There is minimal waste and pollution.
Quality Lifestyle
Living in the Wellington region is enjoyable, and people feel safe. A variety of healthy and affordable lifestyles can be pursued. Our art, sport, recreation and entertainment scenes are enjoyed by all community members – and attract visitors.
Sense of Place
We have a deep sense of pride in the Wellington region and there is strong community spirit. We value the region’s unique characteristics – its rural, urban and harbour landscapes, its climate, its central location, and its capital city.
Regional Foundations
High quality and secure infrastructure and services meet our everyday needs. These are developed and maintained to support the sustainable growth of the region, now and in the future.
Healthy Community
Our physical and mental health is protected. Living and working environments are safe, and everyone has access to health care. Every opportunity is taken to recognise and encourage good health.
Strong and Tolerant Community
People are important. All members of our community are empowered to participate in decision-making and to contribute to society. We celebrate diversity and welcome newcomers, while recognising the special role of tangata whenua.
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