More than 150 people from across industry, government, and the community gathered at RAC Arena yesterday to learn more about the real-life impact of Murdoch University’s Harry Butler Institute and the research helping to save our planet.
The event on Whadjuk Noongar land addressed the ongoing threats of climate and environmental change, including bushfires, pollution and urban sprawl, and how they are placing further pressure on the world’s threatened species, water systems and forests.
Attendees were also treated to live demonstrations of new technology and artificial intelligence tools being used to monitor and manage the sources and symptoms of climate change.
Vice Chancellor Professor Andrew Deeks said Murdoch University had a long and proud tradition of supporting the environment and conservation through world-leading research.
He said the event was a tremendous opportunity for industry and the scientific community to come together, exchange ideas and celebrate vital research taking place in Perth that is helping to tackle pressing environmental issues while also supporting sustainable development.
“With the United Nations Climate Change Conference currently underway in Egypt, it seems as though there is more bad news than good news,” Professor Deeks said.
But this event demonstrates to the Western Australian community and industry what is possible in the management of climate change, including new technology and research going towards rapidly detecting pathogens, solving biosecurity threats, drawing regional water supplies, restocking our rivers with native fish, securing the future of vulnerable species and combating the adverse effects of rising temperatures.
“It’s also an opportunity to foster a collective purpose and responsibility as we continue to work together in partnership with industry and government for a greener, safer future.”
Pro Vice Chancellor of the Harry Butler Institute, Professor Simon McKirdy, praised Murdoch University’s scientists and their persistence to confront environmental challenges, and make change.
“Our talented, persistent and curious scientists are helping to prevent drastic changes from happening and allowing our world to heal. They are providing hope through new solutions – some not yet seen anywhere else in the world,” Professor McKirdy said.
It’s a privilege that we get to celebrate their critical role in fighting the effects of climate and environmental change. We need to keep having these conversations to inspire people to demand action and create advocates for our vulnerable species, oceans, forest and land.”
Harry Butler Institute researchers have had a busy year to-date helping to shape Western Australia’s scientific rally against environmental problems.
These important developments include:
- Investigating the link between ticks, animals, and humans.
- Developing a new, environmentally friendly concrete, Colliecrete.
- Planting more than seven Miyawaki forests to increase biodiversity.
- Monitoring the environment in remote locations.
- Studying iconic sawfish species.
This research supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 11, 13, 14 and 15.
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