Plants take carbon from the atmosphere as they grow, but it goes straight back when they die or are harvested. There is an important difference between carbon fluxes and actual carbon sequestration.
When our COVID-19 lockdowns end, we can’t afford to stop caring about collective well-being. NZ is well positioned to show the world how it’s done – if we listen to Māori and other diverse voices.
As New Zealand prepares to ease its lockdown from April 28, new COVID-19 clusters are likely to emerge – but a combination of testing and contact tracing should be able to stamp out major outbreaks.
A switch to electric transport is one of New Zealand’s key climate strategies. It will increase demand on the national grid, but might also help increase renewable electricity generation.
Our relationships with characters from books and screen – called parasocial relationships – serve many of the same functions as our friendships with real people, minus the infection risks.
The Conversation is expanding our New Zealand coverage by appointing Finlay Macdonald – an award-winning journalist, editor, publisher and broadcaster – as our NZ Editor: Politics, Business + Arts.
New Zealand will begin easing its national lockdown from next Tuesday, after an extra five days of some of the world’s strictest COVID-19 restrictions. Six NZ experts give their take on the news.
On Monday, New Zealand will announce if it’s ready to relax some of its COVID-19 restrictions – among the strictest in the world. Based on international and local data, I argue it’s time; here’s why.
A new report on New Zealand’s lakes and rivers confirms that many freshwater ecosystems are in decline and warns that climate change will exacerbate existing threats.
Until NZ is no longer in a state of emergency, authorities have exceptional powers over people’s lives – from telling people to stay home, to potentially making vaccinations or testing mandatory.
New Zealand’s COVID-19 elimination strategy has been a collective success, involving ‘ordinary’ Kiwis and unity across political divides. Ending lockdown and a looming election will test that unity.
Ardern’s handling of the COVID-19 crisis has inspired high trust in the state but by the time the country goes to the polls later this year, the outbreak’s social and economic damage may change that.
Dougal Sutherland, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington
Fear is a central emotional response during a pandemic and it’s why most people have complied with lockdown conditions. But as anxiety eases and boredom sets in, people’s resolution may fray.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, online platforms might seem to be safer places to work and socialise, but online abuse is expected to rise – and women are at a higher risk.
Ilan Noy, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington
Many countries are spending record amounts to support people and businesses affected by COVID-19, but we need to scrutinise fiscal support because it’s money we’re borrowing from future generations.
As someone who researches and teaches leadership, I’d argue New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is giving most Western politicians a masterclass in crisis leadership.
My research shows New Zealanders are likely to cope better with the coronavirus lockdown if they spend time exercising and playing outdoors, while still following official advice on social distancing.
Jon MacKay, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau
Automated text messages if your phone detects you’re a long way from home, or discounted home internet, are just a few possible technology solutions to make New Zealanders “stay home to save lives”.
Despite a comprehensive lockdown, New Zealanders should expect the number of people with coronavirus infections to rise first, before they come down again.
Adjunct Professor, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, and Professor of Political Science, Charles Sturt University