Hugh will discuss several key examples of how the application of mathematics to real-world systems has impacted policy and management … or not. These stories include the rezoning of the Greater Barrier Reef, the creation of a network of Commonwealth marine parks, the Brigalow Declaration, the Long Paddock Statement, Threatened Species Policy, EPBC Act biodiversity offsets, Monitoring and Evaluation, NSW biodiversity policy reforms, state forestry policy and regional planning. In many of these examples, mathematics was an essential element of achieving on-ground benefits for species and ecosystems. However, good mathematics does not necessarily translate into good outcomes, and the most sophisticated and complex mathematics – the sort that we love to do in university maths departments – was not necessarily the most useful.
When: Thursday 13 July
Time: 6:00pm – 7:30pm AEST (light refreshments available from 5.00pm)
The lecture will be approx. 45 mins, followed by Q&A
Where: P514, Science and Engineering Centre, QUT Gardens Point – view campus map
Online: Zoom link will be distributed to all registered attendees participating remotely 48 hours prior to the event
