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Introduction to the Sustainability Transition Challenge Wnanga

The Sustainability Transition Challenge Wnanga was a gathering of experts and practitioners from various fields, including Indigenous development, governance, science, environment, and farming. The event aimed to discuss and address the sustainability transition challenge facing agriculture in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Context of the Wnanga

Aotearoa New Zealand is at a crossroads, with pressure to transition agriculture to carbon neutrality, address water quality concerns, and enhance biodiversity. However, agriculture is the backbone of the Aotearoa economy, and transitioning to a new way of operating entails risks that could threaten the country's economic wellbeing. Mori, who are aiming to improve the health of the environment, also hold significant assets in the agricultural sector.

Structure of the Wnanga

The wnanga took place over two days, with the first day bringing together diverse and innovative thinkers, leaders, and practitioners to discuss the sustainability transition. They spoke to the transition challenge facing agriculture from their position and area of experience, knowledge, and expertise. The second day focused on collaborative research needs and opportunities for moving forward.

Sessions and Keynote Address

The wnanga included several sessions, each focusing on a specific aspect of the sustainability transition:

• Session 1: Whakahaere Transforming policy and governance
  • Discussed transforming policy and governance to support the sustainability transition
• Session 2: Whakatere: The journey of acquiring and applying knowledge
  • Explored the journey of acquiring and applying knowledge to address the sustainability transition challenge
• Session 3: Te Whenua Hou Te Whenua Whitiora Approaching a new farming horizon
  • Focused on approaching a new farming horizon and the role of regenerative farming practices
• Session 4: Whakakoha ki te ao Mori -Transforming our relationship to whenua (land) through embracing te ao Mori
  • Discussed transforming the relationship to whenua (land) through embracing te ao Mori
• Session 5: Tauutuutu Transforming the agri-economy
  • Explored transforming the agri-economy to support the sustainability transition
• Keynote Address and discussion: Rebuilding First Nations Governance in Canada
  • Featured a keynote address by Professor Frances Abele and Amsey Maracle on rebuilding First Nations governance in Canada

Wnanga Outcomes

The wnanga started important conversations on the transition to agricultural sustainability in Aotearoa, informed by voices from Canada. The event yielded four central insights to form the basis of future work:

1. Bring the whole community along in the transition to sustainability
2. Share stories of transition happening at multiple levels of governance
3. Show how these transition pathways are informed by reconciliation and decolonization efforts
4. Foster international dialogue through these stories, recognizing the value in sharing experiences between Aotearoa and Canada

Conclusion

The Sustainability Transition Challenge Wnanga provided a platform for discussing and addressing the sustainability transition challenge facing agriculture in Aotearoa New Zealand. The event highlighted the importance of collaborative research, community engagement, and international dialogue in supporting the transition to a more sustainable and regenerative agricultural system.