A new voice for the science behind the EPA’s decisions

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 9, 2016

A new voice for the science behind the EPA’s decisions

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced the appointment of Dr Jacqueline Rowarth to the new role of Chief Scientist, helping New Zealanders understand the science behind EPA decisions.

The EPA’s Chief Executive Dr Allan Freeth says Professor Rowarth has a depth and breadth of experience that covers agricultural science, environment and agribusiness.

“She has long been an advocate for using accurate science and data to make good decisions to manage New Zealand’s natural resources.

“At the EPA we’re really proud of the work that we do, and the robust scientific assessments that support our decisions.

“As Chief Scientist, Jacqueline Rowarth will be in a position to use her expertise to explain our science, so people can have trust and confidence in the decisions we make.

“She has already established herself as a trusted voice for science. She has the gift of being able to speak simply, even about things that seem complicated. And she listens: she values other people’s views.”

Dr Rowarth, Professor of Agribusiness at the University of Waikato, says her academic background will serve her well in her new position.

“My new role will be a considerable change from teaching, but as my students know, I have a focus on facts, evidence and data, analysis and synthesis.

“I encourage them to bring issues and concerns from different perspectives so that we can discuss them in class.

“This approach, in combination with my degree in Agricultural Science with honours in Environmental Agriculture, followed by a PhD in Soil Science (nutrient cycling) and research in carbon, nitrogen, food and economics will, I hope, provide a foundation for what must be done for New Zealand through the EPA over the next few years”

Jacqueline Rowarth will take up her position with the EPA at the end of October.

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