Source: University of Waikato
University of Waikato researchers are changing the way we co-exist with nature through a funded research programme with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.
Led by the University’s Professor Bruce Clarkson and supported by Programme Manager Dr Rachel Nepia, the People, Cities, Nature initiative focuses on restoring Indigenous flora and fauna in urban environments while fostering a reconnection between people and the environment.
Urban areas are home to 87% of New Zealand’s population and are key in solving the global diversity crisis and improving human wellbeing.
“We’re exploring how we can reintegrate trees, plants and animals into New Zealand cities and towns to enhance the quality of life, health and economic wellbeing,” says Dr Nepia.
The programme has four key focus areas: residential design for biodiversity; restoring urban wildlife; urban soil biodiversity and health; and mātauranga-led restoration.
With nearly two decades of delivering world-class research on urban nature restoration, People, Cities, Nature now engages 25 researchers across New Zealand and Australia, including participation from University of Waikato postgraduate students.