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Harry Butler takes collaboration even further for scientific solutions
Harry Butler recognised that humans are part of the environment, not separate from it and for human endeavor to flourish, good environmental practices are critical.
In August 2017 the Harry Butler Institute (HBI) was founded at Murdoch University in honour of the environmental pioneer and educator, Dr Harry Butler AO CBE.
Building upon a decades-long legacy of world-class environmental research at Murdoch University the Harry Butler Institute is a productive research space where experts across a broad range of disciplines are innovating for a more sustainable future.
Operating from Murdoch’s South Street campus, HBI works in collaboration with community, industry and government partners across the globe to conserve biodiversity and improve sustainable practices.
The Southwest of Western Australia is an International Union for Conservation (IUCN) recognised biodiversity hotspot, where our landscapes, rich in endemic species, face the severe threats posed by global warming, and long-term declines in rainfall.
Balancing the needs of growing communities and cities with these complex challenges requires the collaborative efforts of business, industry, government and academia.
By working together, we can develop and implement strategies to protect unique ecosystems, promote sustainable development, and ensure economic activities are environmentally responsible, ultimately supporting long-term ecological and economic stability across the region.
Murdoch University has had a strong environmental research profile since opening its doors in 1974.
Internationally, Murdoch is renowned for delivering innovations and improvements and real-world application. Since its inception, the Harry Butler Institute has built upon that reputation reaching new heights for its innovation, industry best-practice as well as more effective engagement of community. Through its mentoring and research programs, the Institute is creating the next generation of environmental leaders.
The research at HBI is encompassed within four research centres - The Centre for Biosecurity and One Health; The Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Ecosystems; The Centre for Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability; and The Centre for Water Energy and Waste - each led by respected academics and experts in their respective fields.
As Murdoch University approaches its 50th anniversary, plans are underway to take HBI’s research, collaboration, impact and activity one major step further.
A new Harry Butler Science Centre (HBSC) is in the planning stages for development. It will be a world-first research and education facility, right on campus.
The HBSC will be a proactive innovation hub where community, industry and academia can collaborate on scientific solutions to current and future sustainable challenges.
Architectural firm Woods Bagot have been appointed to design the HBSC which is jointly funded by Murdoch University and the Australian Government.
Creating a new entry and geographical hub of activity for the campus, the HBSC will provide a considered and respectful gateway to the culturally and environmentally significant Beeliar Regional Park wetlands, where some the Institutes research is based.
The build will incorporate technology enriched buildings, extensive external public open spaces with its eco-based wetland living laboratories. In addition to outstanding environmental research outcomes, it aims to be the pinnacle of best practice management of wetlands within an urban environment, working proactively with industry, researchers and underpinned by Cultural stewardship.
Murdoch looks forward to delivering a world class facility, an exemplar of environmental sustainability and best practice in tertiary education, facilities and landscape design with a strong Australian identity paying homage to the 60,000+ year history of this significant site, and the social and cultural importance of the area.
Collaboration at the HBSC will allow businesses to deliver maximum economic value to the community while safeguarding the environment.
Murdoch’s Executive Director Harry Butler Institute Professor Treena Burgess said HBI is collaborating with industry and government to enhance biodiversity outcomes linked to development and industry is increasingly recognising the importance of this shift.
There is a significant movement towards understanding the necessity of protecting the environment while developing new resources or land. Achieving this balance is crucial for future success.
Professor Treena Burgess
"Industry is very much on board, recognizing the long-term benefits for both their social license and the planet."
The Centre will allow and support this collaboration and will be a further physical expression of Harry Butler’s passion and unwavering commitment to collaborative science and environmental education.
ABC radio interview
Murdoch University Deputy Vice Chancellor Global Engagement Professor Simon McKirdy was interviewed by ABC Radio in February 2023, about honouring Harry Butler's legacy with the Harry Butler Institute. Listen online.