To ensure equitable outcomes for Māori, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has moved to weave Māori perspectives and mātauranga into all aspects of ’its work. A three-year Mātauranga work programme commenced in 2017 with a focus on ways of weaving Mātauranga into decision-making processes at the operational level as well as more broadly across the organisation.

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In July 2020 the EPA launched its Mātauranga framework - a tool to help EPA decision-makers test and probe Mātauranga when presented in evidence - the first of its kind to be developed in the natural resources sector. To be confident in its decisions, the EPA must be rigorous in the process of reaching them.

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The development of the Mātauranga framework has truly been partnership in action. It is the culmination of an evolving discussion over many years on incorporating Māori perspectives and now knowledge, culture, values and worldview into EPA decision-making and daily work between the EPA (and its predecessor, the Environmental Risk Management Authority), Ngā Kaihautū Tikanga Taiao, Te Herenga (EPA network of Māori environmental practitioners centred in the regions), and Ngā Parirau o te Mātauranga (kaumātua group drawn from within Te Herenga, who have tirelessly shared their wisdom and expertise with the EPA for many years).

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The Mātauranga framework is founded on the recognition that Mātauranga can be accurate and precise, and is a testament to the shared vision and strong leadership across the EPA about the importance of weaving Mātauranga - and the rich cultural knowledge and practices embodied therein - into EPA decision-making and work.

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In this presentation we will present the Mātauranga framework, briefly outlining its whakapapa (genealogy), and talking through the accompanying guide. 
 

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