25 Jan 2010

Top-level US science delegation visits NZ

4:23 pm on 25 January 2010

A top-level science delegation from the United States is in New Zealand this week to discuss topics including bio-energy, marine science and the Antarctic.

Thirty scientists are here for a bilateral meeting on science and technology, continuing a 35-year partnership.

Scientists spent the weekend in workshops, which covered topics such as climate change and renewable energy.

The US National Science Foundation has a budget of $NZ9 billion to invest in research.

Director Arden Bement says New Zealand scientists can teach their American colleagues about ideas such as integrating renewable energy into electricity grids.

Research, Science and Technology Minister Wayne Mapp says the visit will lead to collaborative research and practical industry outcomes.

Dr Mapp says the trip has included a visit to AgResearch in Hamilton, where scientists discussed the problem of controlling methane emissions.

The minister says New Zealand and the US need to find a way to curb emissions from animals if they are to reduce greenhouse emissions.

Dr Mapp will address the scientists in Wellington on Tuesday night.