Another interesting site visit that resulted from the cross-curricular study into sustainability, being undertaken by 10 Lowther, saw two students visit the Chemistry department of the University of Otago.

Taya Morrison and Ella Edwards met with Dr Kim Currie, a Marine Chemist who works for NIWA and is based at the University of Otago. Kim’s field of study is ocean acidification, which is what Taya and Ella are investigating in their study.

It was interesting to see the level of complexity and accuracy involved in the research conducted by Kim and her team, and to learn that they collaborate with scientists from across the world. It was also interesting to learn that this study has been going on for 20 years, and will continue for many more.

Ella and Taya discovered that a wider range of factors contribute to ocean acidification than they had initially realised, and they heard about the many ways and places it is being studied. They were also interested to learn about how much field-work a scientist can be involved in - including trips out to sea on an ocean going research vessel.

Thank you Dr Currie for so generously sharing your knowledge and experiences.