Tower Insurance, in collaboration with the University of Waikato, has announced the latest recipients of its Climate Change Scholarship program. Maia Waudby and Hannah Dagger have each been awarded $5,000 to support their studies in the Bachelor of Climate Change program at the University of Waikato.
This scholarship program, which was launched in 2021, provides financial support to students dedicated to addressing climate change challenges. Each year, Tower Insurance awards three $5,000 scholarships to students enrolled in this critical field.
The timing of this year’s awards is particularly significant as New Zealand faces mounting pressure to enhance its climate action strategies. The Climate Change Commission recently released its first assessment of the national adaptation plan, which was introduced in 2022. The report highlighted that current adaptation measures are inadequate and stressed the need for a more proactive approach to manage the escalating risks associated with climate change.
A recent survey further underscores the urgency of these issues. Out of 1,005 respondents, 65% expressed the belief that more resources should be allocated to addressing climate risks. Additionally, nearly 70% of those surveyed cited natural disasters as a major contributor to rising insurance premiums, and many advocated for more proactive measures to mitigate climate hazards.
Blair Turnbull, CEO of Tower Insurance, emphasized the importance of the scholarship initiative in tackling these pressing challenges. “The scholarships play a crucial role in fostering the next generation of climate leaders who will be instrumental in developing innovative solutions to our climate challenges,” Turnbull said.
By supporting students like Waudby and Dagger, Tower Insurance aims to contribute to a more resilient and adaptive approach to climate change, aligning with broader efforts to address the growing concerns of New Zealanders and enhance the nation’s climate resilience.
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