Waikato launches environmental law centre CEREL

A new research centre aimed at tackling environmental law issues was launched at the University of Waikato on November 30.

The Centre for Environmental, Resources and Energy Law (CEREL) brings together the Te Piringa – Faculty of Law’s internationally recognised research strengths in energy and environmental law, sustainable development and natural resource management, and Māori and indigenous governance.

Speaking at the launch was leading environmental law expert Professor Rob Fowler of the University of South Australia, who said the establishment of a new research centre at Waikato was an exciting time for the university.

“Having been involved in the establishment of a similar centre in Australia, I have seen how quickly it is possible to develop and extend linkages to the international community of legal scholars through such an initiative.

Future Direction

“CEREL will make a significant contribution with respect to both teaching and research in environmental law, but also natural resources and energy law in New Zealand, thereby assisting in the effective implementation and further development of relevant laws.”

Headed by Professor Barry Barton, CEREL will have several roles, including providing interdisciplinary research to councils and government departments, organisations and corporations, community and iwi groups, and international agencies.

Professor Barton said CEREL would be organised around the themes of water, energy efficiency, petroleum and minerals, Māori and indigenous governance, coastal and marine environment, and international environmental law.

A launch for the new research centre was held in Tauranga on Tuesday November 29 with another being held in Wellington on Thursday December 1.