Navigating Climate-Related Conflicts

by Jane Borthwick

October 30th 2024 from 11-11:30am

The Environment & Climate Change Group is holding a lunchtime speaker series hearing from leaders on navigating conflict arising from climate change.

We are pleased to announce our first speaker in the series is Jane Borthwick, an Environmental Mediator in NZ and former judge of the NZ judge of the Environment and District Courts presiding over environmental litigation.

Jane will be presenting on her research with the University of Canterbury looking at what tools are available for communities facing climate adaptation, including relocation. Jane's expertise in environmental mediation and her experience as a judge will surely provide valuable perspectives on navigating climate-related conflicts. The focus on tools for community adaptation, especially regarding relocation, is especially timely and relevant.

If you're planning to attend, it could be helpful to think about any specific questions or topics you'd like to discuss during the Q&A that follows the presentation.

Approaching my 30th year post-admission to the bar, I have engaged in all aspects of environmental and resource management litigation throughout New Zealand. My experience as a lawyer and as a Judge of the Environment Court covers the full breadth of the court’s work being policy and plan development, resource consents, designations, and land acquisitions.

My work includes first instance hearings, direct referrals, referrals by a Minister of the Crown on matters of national importance, and appeals. This work has involved the Resource Management Act 1991, Public Works Act 1981 and Legislation Act 2021 together with a range of Acts relevant to environmental prosecutions in the District Court.

A Judge for 15 years, the last five years had a particular focus on freshwater management in public policy and consenting domains. While this work also engages with the energy sector and local authorities, much of it has been at the forefront of public policy development in the farming sector around which there has been considerable public interest.

My decision to retire is to pursue other interests, including the development of climate mitigation and adaptation policies.

Returning to private practice in alternative disputes resolution and as an independent hearing commissioner, I continue to adhere to the judiciary’s core values of independence, impartiality, and integrity.