Building research with communities
A key theme throughout the day was making sure research is developed with communities rather than about them.
Associate Professor Mandy Downing outlined how the Hub has been strengthening researchers’ cultural capability and supporting better Indigenous engagement across projects.
“What we’ve done well within the Hub is try to develop cultural capability of researchers involved in Indigenous research. Many have not had previous experience in this space, and something we’ve worked hard on is developing those cultural capabilities.”
She said the new Indigenous Communications Guide was developed to help researchers share findings in ways that are useful and accessible for communities, while recognising Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property and data sovereignty.
Research tackling Australia’s environmental challenges
Presentations throughout the afternoon showcased research addressing issues that affect communities across Australia.
Projects presented on the day explored:
- how better connections with nature can improve wellbeing
- practical ways to reduce wood heater emissions and improve air quality
- new approaches to understanding and reducing microplastic pollution
- research helping regional communities build stronger circular economies
- work developing Australia’s circular economy evidence base
- improving air quality during bushfires, and
- finding new ways to recover valuable materials from waste.
Professor Matthew Kearnes said Australia was entering an important period in thinking differently about waste and resources.
“How do we reduce our material footprint, how do we reuse materials, and how do we divert them into more productive uses? That’s a huge policy conversation, but it’s also a huge economic and social opportunity.”
Supporting the next generation of researchers
The showcase also highlighted the Hub’s role in supporting early and mid-career researchers through collaborative, applied research.
Dr Stefan Kaufman, who leads the Hub’s regional circular economy research, said one of the program’s biggest successes had been creating opportunities for emerging researchers to build careers that connect science, policy and practice.
“I’m excited about how we’ve been able to create opportunities for these researchers to develop their own research agendas and narratives, build relationships, build skills, and make this contribution to thriving regional communities in an economic, environmental and social sense.”
Professor Sahajwalla said, “When it comes to circular economy, we’re showing that practical real world solutions built in collaboration and partnership is what is ultimately going to deliver impact.”
