Internal Consultation Forums for a Melbourne Biodiversity Institute
Biodiversity underpins all aspects of our life, from our economy, food systems, water and health, through to our culture and identity. Biodiversity is fundamental to our prosperity but is in precipitous decline globally and in Australia. Expert consensus, amplified by the UN and major private organisations, recognises biodiversity loss as an existential threat.
There is growing momentum to find solutions to the biodiversity crisis. At the University of Melbourne, we have the interdisciplinary expertise, connections to business and policy, and leadership position to make a difference.
The vision for a Melbourne Biodiversity Institute has developed in response to urgent calls for expertise to address the biodiversity crisis by supporting decision-making by governments, business, First Nations organisations and the non-government sector. It aims to scale up our capacity for interdisciplinary and cross-cultural research and translation, extend our partnerships and impact, and respond to rapidly-growing student demand for biodiversity careers and for professional skills in biodiversity, natural capital and sustainability across diverse career paths.
The concept for a Biodiversity Institute at the University of Melbourne is taking shape in conversations and collaboration with academic staff and leaders across our Faculties. We now hope to share the concept and updates on progress, build our community of expertise and practice, and hear the views of everyone with an interest in biodiversity across our University.
In this perspective, we would like to invite staff to join our internal consultation forums on the possibility of a Biodiversity Institute at the University of Melbourne. Many staff and Faculty leadership from across the University have contributed to shaping the initiative to date. The forums are designed to share the motivation and concept for a Biodiversity Institute, where we are at in the process, hear thoughts and questions, and discuss next steps.
We will be holding three forums to enable staff within the University to attend at a time that suits them best. The forums will include options for Zoom for those who are working remotely, but we would encourage in person attendance to make connections, share ideas and enjoy refreshments afterwards.
For more information and to book, please click on your preferred session:
Thursday 20th October 9:30am – 11:00am: https://events.unimelb.edu.au/science/event/24933-1
Tuesday 25th October 2:00pm – 4pm: https://events.unimelb.edu.au/science/event/24936-1
Thursday 27th October 3:00pm – 5:00pm: https://events.unimelb.edu.au/science/event/24934-1
We look forward to seeing you there!