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Miyawaki Forest Program named Eureka Science Prize finalist for innovation in citizen science
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Murdoch University ecologist Dr Grey Coupland has been recognised as a finalist in the 2026 Australian Museum Eureka Prizes for her transformative Miyawaki Forest Program.
Murdoch University ecologist Dr Grey Coupland has been recognised as a finalist in the 2026 Australian Museum Eureka Prizes for her transformative Miyawaki Forest Program.
Dr Coupland has been nominated for the Department of Industry, Science and Resources Eureka Prize for Innovation in Citizen Science.
Since 2021, the Miyawaki Forest Program has planted 22 fast-growing forests across WA schools and communities and brought together more than 5,000 passionate citizen scientists.
The Miyawaki method, devised by Japanese botanist Professor Akira Miyawaki in the 1970s, involves planting high-density, multi-layered forests comprised of diverse native species.
Using her own unique ecological knowledge, Dr Coupland translated this method to Western Australian ecosystems, using the four layers from the method: canopy, tree, subtree and shrub, to work with community members to create lush, cool green spaces.
Through her work as a research fellow at the Harry Butler Institute, Dr Coupland has engaged local primary schools, resident nature lovers, and the wider community to plant in, nurture and observe local landscapes that pave the way for a greener future.
"We run this citizen science program to bring biodiversity back into our cities and reconnect children with nature and we are really privileged to be able to do that," Dr Coupland said.
The children that are involved in the Miyawaki Forest Program are absolutely fabulous, and it's fantastic their citizen science is part of the program being recognised.
Vice Chancellor Professor Andrew Deeks said the announcement recognised Dr Coupland's contributions to both the environment, and the community.
“The Miyawaki Forest Program being named a finalist in the 2026 Eureka Prizes is a testament to the transformative work that Dr Coupland and her research team do to connect our local community with nature,” Professor Deeks said.
“Citizen science is a powerful catalyst for change, and the Miyawaki Forest Program is a tangible example of what happens when scientists translate their research to create opportunities for community participation and engagement.”
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Miyawaki Forest Program named Eureka Science Prize finalist for innovation in citizen science
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