Reading Time: < 1 minute Adaptation is just as important as mitigation was the message delivered by Pure Advantage trustee Andrew Grant at the Primary Industries Summit in Christchurch. Grant’s presentation explained the concept Recloaking Papatūānuku, which he describes as a nature-based approach to helping New Zealand meet its climate and biodiversity targets. It focuses on practical, cost-effective solutions that are backed by solid science. “Nature is one of the best shock absorbers we have to help us feel and create resilience around these events,” Grant said. “We’re not saying mitigation isn’t important, but adaptation is real. Healthy ecosystems are critical not only as a carbon sink, but in building our ability to respond to climate challenges.” He shared three key practical approaches at the core of the Recloaking Papatūānuku initiative: First, large-scale predator elimination. The Next Foundation has already cleared 120,000 hectares in south Westland and plans to expand to 1 million hectares in Fiordland – a project potentially worth billions in carbon credits. Second, supporting mixed farming models. Grant highlighted the current challenges farmers face, noting native tree planting is currently 10 times less productive than exotic forestry. The initiative aims to close this productivity gap, making native plantings more economically viable. Third, empowering catchment groups. By providing resources, funding, and coordination tools, the project seeks to scale existing environmental restoration efforts and enable more groups to participate. “We’re not claiming to have all the answers, but we want to create a platform that allows all New Zealanders to contribute to protecting our natural environment.”