CONFERENCE SPEAKERS
Zoe Avery
Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland
SPEAKER BIO
Associate Director of Design (Urban Planning) at Te Pare, School of Architecture and Planning at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland + Director, The Urbanist + Chair, Design for Nature + Director, Australasian Green Infrastructure Network + Board Member, World Green Infrastructure Network.
Zoë is an urbanist, passionate about urban design, planning, landscape and nature. Her work focus stems from the understanding that the urban spaces we create profoundly impact our lives and the planet. Zoë’s is an authentic problem-solver and her research focuses on regenerative design, biodiversity, climate change adaptation, urban sustainability, nature-based solutions, and urban design and urban planning policy development. She highlights the drastic 70% decline in wildlife populations during her lifetime, emphasizing that our entire economy depends on nature, from food we eat to the air we breathe. She works to nurture and create spaces that embrace this interconnectedness to address environmental challenges sustainably.
TALK TITLE
Urban Canopy in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland
ABSTRACT
As Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, navigates the complexities of urbanisation and environmental preservation, integrating ample greenery into the cityscape is essential. This presentation targets the city's goal to achieve 30% tree canopy cover, crucial for bolstering urban resilience and enhancing biodiversity. Zoë will explore how nature-based solutions can reduce urban heat, manage stormwater, improve air quality, and provide vital green spaces for community use and ecological diversity.
The discussion will encompass the obstacles and strategies for increasing tree coverage in urban environments, illustrated by various case studies. Zoë will discuss issues that urban planners encounter, such as policy challenges and the necessity for cross-disciplinary collaboration. She will provide insights into effective policy-making and innovative urban design.
Advocating for comprehensive and cohesive urban planning, Zoë’s presentation proposes practical strategies like policy reform, engaging communities, and creative design initiatives. These are aimed at avoiding the detrimental effects of not achieving Auckland’s tree canopy goals. With a foundation in green infrastructure, urban resilience, and ecosystem services, the presentation seeks to inspire and direct future sustainable urban development in Auckland.