Transpower, along with Top Energy and Northpower are proposing Northland as the pilot region for renewable energy zones (REZ) in Aotearoa. To enable a REZ, the transmission lines need to be upgraded. This map shows the distribution networks for our lines companies. Note the high capacity 220 kv line between Bream Bay and Auckland. It … Continue reading Renewable Energy Zones
Here is an impassioned speech by Kenyan Elizabeth Wathuti at the opening ceremony for COP 26. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMvzJu79WG0
A paper about methane that I have been working on with a team of scientists and practitioners is now published. A nuanced understanding of methane is important for Aotearoa, as the dominant view positions methane emissions as a major problem. But our predominantly pasture-based agricultural systems operate in ways that emit methane, also support the … Continue reading Methane: Sources, Sinks and Uncertainties
Among the grand delusions that we suffer from is the idea that we can have a successful economy, or an undegraded environment, but not both. Our environment is sacrificed in the pursuit of economic progress. But if we look into our history, we can see that environmental destruction has led to economic and often, societal … Continue reading Is it possible to have healthy environments and a healthy economy?
Photo by Andre Hunter on Unsplash (This article was first published 16 June 2019 at catherinemikenn.com).Last month, members of the Labour Party’s Māori Caucus held a public consultation meeting on the Government’s celebrated Wellbeing Budget (hosted by Te Puawaitanga marae, Otangarei). I arrived with much anticipation, hoping to hear from our elected representatives about the smorgasbord of progressive … Continue reading Feeling underwhelmed by the “revolutionary” Wellbeing Budget? Here’s why.
Climate Action Tai Tokerau 