About our science and data
What does science and data mean to the MfE and how it is applied
Science and data are critical for the Ministry if we are to understand our environment today and anticipate the future. They inform public debate and inspire action, and enable us to ground our advice to decisions makers and develop effective policy and guidance.
Our definition of science is deliberately broad. Science refers to the data, monitoring, research, reports, scientific methods, and understanding we use to make decisions and give advice. It covers areas such as environmental economics, social and behavioural sciences, and Mātauranga Māori as well as the biophysical sciences.
Data is information stored in an accessible and easily shareable format, and includes tabular data (tables) as well as spatial data (maps).