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A project that could help iwi and Maori landowners unlock the economic potential of geothermal assets has made the shortlist for Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment’s Smart Ideas funding round.
Waikato University Professor Craig Cary is leading the research on geothermal microbial ecosystems.
Phase one of the project collected information on the physical, chemical, and bacterial diversity of 1000 hot springs in the Taupo Volcanic Zone.
The new research proposal aims to characterise the genetic potential of these unique habitats as a foundation for biodiscovery.
Professor Cary says the project will take into account the sensitivity of intellectual property for iwi with kaitiakitanga of these resources by developing a secure and accessible database for stakeholders such as iwi, regional councils, the Department of Conservation and tourism operators.
Dr Cary is also overseeing another Smart Ideas project on ocean acidification through climate change and its potential effect on New Zealand’s aquaculture industry.
The projects which win funding will announced in September.
Copyright © 2016, UMA Broadcasting Ltd: www.waateanews.com
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