Leading researchers joined forces this Queenstown this week to better understand ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and its effects.
The 2010 UV Workshop, which concluded yesterday, brought together researchers with an interest in UVR discuss its effects on plants, people and the planet.
The workshop was convened by Niwa and sponsored by The Cancer Society, the Health Sponsorship Council/Sunsmart; the Ministry of Health; the Royal Society of New Zealand/Ministry of Research, Science and Technology; and the University of Auckland.
Papers were presented on topics including ozone depletion in New Zealand, the relationship between ozone depletion and global warming, the impact of UVR on human health, the risks associated with insufficient UVR, and balancing the risks and benefits of sun exposure.
Graeme Strang, of Niwa, said on Wednesday the study of UVR involved many disciplines, including atmospheric chemistry and physics, botany, zoology, materials science and health.
Policy advisers, manufacturers, educationalists, health promoters and the media also had an interest in UVR and its effects, but the "diverse groups" rarely had a chance to interact.
The workshop aimed to provide a forum for discussion among groups involved with all aspects of the causes and effects of changes in UV radiation.
