Trust in science under spotlight at the 2026 Thomas Cawthron Memorial Lecture

Cawthron Institute will host the 83rd Annual Thomas Cawthron Memorial Lecture on Tuesday 8 September in Nelson, featuring award-winning environmentalist and author Natalie Kyriacou OAM as keynote speaker.

At a time when environmental, social and technological challenges are becoming increasingly complex, the ability to make informed decisions has never been more important. Whether responding to climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution or emerging technologies, communities and decision-makers rely on trusted information and robust evidence to navigate uncertainty and plan for the future.

Yet in an increasingly crowded information landscape, distinguishing evidence from opinion is becoming more difficult. The rapid growth of digital media, social platforms and artificial intelligence is transforming how information is created, shared and consumed, creating new challenges for public trust, scientific understanding and informed decision-making.

This year’s lecture, Truth in a Noisy World: Science, Disinformation and Decisions for Our Future, will explore how disinformation is influencing public understanding and public debate, and what this means for society’s ability to respond effectively to complex challenges.

Natalie Kyriacou is an award-winning environmentalist, presenter and author of Nature’s Last Dance: Tales of Wonder in an Age of Extinction. Recognised internationally for her leadership in conservation and environmental advocacy, Natalie was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2018 and has been named among Forbes’ 30 Under 30, LinkedIn’s Top Green Voices and The Australian’s Top Innovators.

In her keynote address, Natalie will examine how disinformation has evolved from a tool used to influence consumer behaviour into sophisticated systems capable of shaping beliefs, identities and public understanding. Drawing on examples from environmental and social issues, she will explore how individuals, organisations and institutions can strengthen critical thinking, rebuild trust and create healthier information ecosystems.

Professor Trisia Farrelly ONZM, Senior Research Scientist and General Manager Donor Relations at Cawthron Institute, says the topic is particularly relevant at a time when communities are increasingly being asked to make decisions about complex and interconnected environmental issues.

“Misinformation, disinformation, deepfakes, and AI hallucinations proliferate in an our increasingly complex and fast-paced world making trusted evidence-based sources of science more critical than ever for evidence-based decision-making.”

“Greater opportunities for dialogue between policymakers and experts can avoid regrettable alternatives and false solutions, while guiding us towards a safe, sustainable, and prosperous future.”

Following the keynote address, Professor Farrelly will reflect on the role of independent science in informing environmental decision-making and helping communities navigate uncertainty. Drawing on her international experience at the science policy interface, including her work coordinating 450 independent scientists throughout the United Nations Global Plastics Treaty negotiations, she will discuss why transparency, evidence and public trust are essential foundations for effective action.

Together, the speakers will consider one of the defining questions of our time: how can societies ensure important decisions are guided by credible evidence when information is abundant, trust is under pressure and competing narratives are everywhere?

Event Details

• Date: Tuesday 8 September 2026
• Time: 7.00pm to 8.30pm (doors open at 6.30pm)
• Venue: Annesbrook Event Centre, Nelson
• Admission: Free for students and people under 25. A suggested koha of $20 is requested for general admission or pay what you can afford.

A Q&A session will follow the presentations, and refreshments and a light supper will be served after the formal programme.

For more information and tickets, visit www.cawthron.org.nz/annual-lecture.

This event is part of Cawthron Institute’s longstanding tradition of sharing science with the community, commemorating the legacy of Thomas Cawthron. The lectures offer a unique opportunity to engage with leading scientific minds on issues that impact both New Zealand and the global community.