MEDIA RELEASE

Organisations on the same page for the environment

For immediate release: Thursday 24 April 2008

Two Bay of Plenty organisations have formalised a long-standing relationship to benefit the region’s students and community.

Environment Bay of Plenty and the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic met on campus to sign a memorandum of understanding, which outlines how they will work together in the future.

It was signed by Environment Bay of Plenty Chief Executive Bill Bayfield and Bay of Plenty Polytechnic’s Chief Executive Officer Alan Hampton.

Both organisations provide crucial links to the local environment in Tauranga and the greater Western Bay area through the academic and practical fields of environmental science and research. The memorandum relates to their educational, training and research links and includes ways for working together on marine and environmental research opportunities such as marine biosecurity in the Tauranga Harbour.

“Supporting students in identifying and carrying out relevant environmental research is a win-win situation,” explains Bill Bayfield. “This helps students to undertake meaningful and relevant research that can be used in the community.”

The memorandum also describes the role of Environment Bay of Plenty staff as guest lecturers, and professional development opportunities the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic can provide for staff wanting to upskill.

“It is good practice for large organisations working together to develop and maximise our relationship for the benefit of both students and the community,” says Alan Hampton.

Representatives of both organisations will meet twice a year to discuss potential mutual marine and environmental research opportunities for both staff and students.

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To download a photograph from the signing, visit http://www.envbop.govt.nz/Publications/Media-Release-Photos.asp

ENDS

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