Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki Lincoln University launched its stimulating new Bioeconomy Series in partnership with the Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao, marking the first week of semester one at the University. The series explores how innovation and sustainable practices are shaping the future of Aotearoa’s bio-based industries by bringing together leading researchers from both organisations to share insights and practical solutions for a thriving bioeconomy.
Lincoln University Vice-Chancellor Professor Grant Edwards says the event highlights the combined strengths of the two organisations.
“This series brings together the strengths and research capabilities of both Lincoln University and Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao to better support farmers, policymakers, industry and communities to navigate real-world challenges facing the land-based sectors.”
With Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao’s head office located on-site at the University, Chief Executive Officer Mark Piper says the Public Research Organisation is privileged to be a part of the Lincoln campus and collaborative series.
“As the biggest research institute in Aotearoa, these events offer the opportunity for us to share our expertise and understanding of topics that are front of mind for rural New Zealanders. This includes evaluating future land-use options and considering how we can continue to drive prosperity, while balancing what is best for the environment and local communities.”
The inaugural event in the Bioeconomy Series explored the future of land use under a changing climate – a highly relevant topic given the flooding and wetter conditions much of Aotearoa has experienced this summer. As weather patterns shift, landscapes and the decisions we make about how we use them will require profound transformation.
Researchers from both organisations are collaborating on the MPI-funded project ‘Land use in a changing climate’, funded by MPI’s Greenhouse Gas Inventory Research Fund. The project aims to understand what climate-driven changes might look like and which regions are most vulnerable or adaptable. By doing so, the researchers are contributing to the body of knowledge that will assist the primary sector in the decades to come with sustainable land-use choices.
During the session, Lincoln University Professor Anita Wreford and Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao’s Dr Alec Mackay shared insights from the project. Working alongside colleagues from both organisations, they formed a team with expertise across disciplines, including economics, climate science, soil science and livestock and farm systems.
Professor Wreford shared how climate change will reshape land-use options across Aotearoa and what this could mean for environmental, economic and community outcomes. Dr Mackay explored how current research and modelling can support decision-making and encourage new approaches to land-use planning using the Gisborne region as an example of what the future land-use could look like under climate change.
“This research provides insights into different scenarios of land use by 2050. Through building different scenarios and modelling, we hope to show a range of futures for the primary sector. These scenarios offer alternatives for consideration, so we can decide which we want and what resulting systems and structures are needed. There is no doubt that sound and informed leadership and strategic policymaking is critical to achieving the best outcomes for all of Aotearoa,” says Professor Anita Wreford.
The next event in the Bioeconomy series is on 30 April, with Professor Paora Tapsell and a Bioeconomy Science Institute representative exploring how Indigenous knowledge, values and governance approaches are shaping bio-based enterprises and influencing the management and regeneration of natural resources. The discussion will demonstrate how Indigenous perspectives are shaping the future of the bioeconomy and what this means for researchers, industry, policymakers and communities working towards a more sustainable and inclusive future.
View the February Bioeconomy event recording here >>
To view upcoming Bioeconomy events, click here >>
Source: Lincoln University
