Griffith University has officially launched the Griffith Institute for Human and Environmental Resilience (GIHER), a bold initiative designed to tackle the complex challenges at the intersection of human wellbeing and environmental sustainability.
Joined by Queensland Chief Scientist, Professor Kerrie Wilson, industry representatives, Griffith University executive, staff and students for its formal launch at the Brisbane South campus, GIHER represents Griffith's historic commitment to fostering collaboration across disciplines to address pressing global issues and create pathways for people and nature to thrive in unison.
The Institute, led by Professor Cara Beal, unites expertise from environmental and social sciences, economics, public health, climate change, engineering, law, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, structured under three research themes:
- Protecting and restoring resilient biodiversity and ecosystems.
- Creating climate and disaster resilient communities.
- Transitioning to climate resilient living and built environments.
"Our transdisciplinary approach reflects the Institute's guiding philosophy of systems thinking – recognising the health, prosperity, and security of human and natural environments are deeply interconnected."
GIHER Director Professor Cara Beal
"The launch of GIHER marks a pivotal moment for Griffith University. Our mission is to create solutions that allow people and nature to thrive together.
"By embracing systems thinking and fostering collaboration across disciplines, we aim to deliver research that informs policy, empowers communities, and drives sustainable change."
GIHER aims to inform policy and practice through strong partnerships with government, industry, and community groups. Central to its mission is inclusive engagement, ensuring Indigenous voices and diverse communities are integral to research design and outcomes.
By embedding these perspectives, GIHER seeks to deliver solutions that are equitable, sustainable, and adaptable in the face of a rapidly changing climate.
