Mark Newton

I apply research methods from the disciplines of environmental studies, geography, ecology, and the social sciences to a range of environmental challenges. Driving my research is the notion that environmental problems are human-created problems, and therefore the solutions lie in understanding human behaviour, perspectives, and values in order to help individuals, agencies and communities design and implement measures to improve their well-being and the environment. There are two present focuses of my research: 1) exploring the notion of social licence to operate of New Zealand’s marine aquaculture and fishing industries, and 2) aquaculture health strategies in the Marlborough Sounds. Other applications of my people-oriented research skills in recent years include biosecurity challenges, land-based aquaculture, sustainability of New Zealand settlements, and greenhouse gas emissions from New Zealand dairy farms.