New Zealand will be keen to showcase its range of nature-based solutions at the upcoming World Green Infrastructure Congress (WGIC). Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Rangkong
Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland will play a role in shaping a sustainable
urban future as host of the World Green Infrastructure Congress (WGIC)
2024, which will take place from 3-5 September 2024 at the University of
Auckland.
The WGIC is expected to attract 600 leaders from industry, academia,
and government, fostering cross-disciplinary dialogues and delivering an
estimated economic impact of NZ$1 million (US$651,050) to the city.
The first two days of the congress will incorporate keynote and
education sessions with up to 100 speakers, plus worldwide green
infrastructure and green building awards. On the third day, delegates
will embark on a Green Infrastructure Excursion Trip around Auckland
showcasing some of the city’s sustainable infrastructure initiatives.
Zoë Avery, Associate Director of Design at Auckland University School
of Architecture and Planning, said: “Aotearoa New Zealand has a lot to
offer, with our Indigenous Māori wisdom, community-led initiatives, and
prioritisation of native plants and ecosystem support.
“There are a number of low-tech nature-based solutions we can share
with the world – the use of natural substrate and fibre; bringing
mussels into the harbour to filter sediment out of the ocean; and the
co-governance partnership with Ngāti Whātua Orakei, who grew the plants
for the Auckland Library living roof at their Pourewa Revegetation
Nursery.”