Since 2021, Dr Coupland has led more than 5,000 passionate citizen scientists from across WA schools and communities through her program to plant 22 fast-growing forests.  

In the Miyawaki Forest Program, Dr Coupland uses her own unique ecological knowledge to translate Japanese botanist Professor Akira Miyawaki’s method into Western Australian ecosystems. 

Dr Coupland said receiving the Department of Industry, Science and Resources Eureka Science Prize for Innovation in Citizen Science was a extraordinary honour and uplifted the power of citizen science. 

"A key aspect of the Miyawaki Forest Program is about giving students and communities the capacity to take tangible action on biodiversity loss, urban heat, and the climate crisis, while also contributing meaningful scientific data," she said.

"It is about reconnecting people with nature and creating space in our urban environment for our amazing wildlife."

Dr Coupland said she hoped this recognition will help grow the Miyawaki Forest Program further.

"It strengthens the case for scaling pocket forests across more schools and communities, embedding long-term citizen science into outdoor learning, and continuing to demonstrate how small urban forests can contribute to biodiversity restoration, cooling, nature connection and wellbeing, and climate resilience."

"And significantly, this award recognises the importance of citizen science and community-based action as drivers of change," Dr Coupland said.

When people, especially children, are given the tools, knowledge and confidence to participate in science and environmental action, they become part of the solution.

These pocket forests are now found at primary schools across WA, and Dr Coupland mentors participants as they monitor their forests and witness the impact of their environmental passion and action. 

Through her work as a research fellow at the Harry Butler Institute, Dr Coupland has inspired many to plant in, nurture and observe local landscapes that pave the way for a greener future. 

Dr Coupland said the award was a reflection of the incredible efforts of participants.  

"This award celebrates all the amazing people who have been and will become part of this program; the students, teachers, schools, community members, volunteers and funding partners (SUGi, Carbon Positive Australian and Plico Energy) who have made the Miyawaki Forest Program possible," she said.

"I want to give a huge and heartfelt shout out to all the incredible children who are part of this program. Working with them on a daily basis is so inspiring and an absolute privilege.

"They are truly the next generation of scientists and ecowarriors. This award is for each and every one of them."

Dr Coupland also extended her thanks to her supporting team.

"And finally, a sincere thank you to the amazing Team Forest - my right-hand woman Ainsley Andrew - we have been together since forest number 1 - and our fabulous PhD candidate Ines Zevallos, who is investigating the impact of the program on children’s wellbeing and nature connectedness."