Presenters

Debra Dorrington, Sustainability Consultant, Debra Dorrington
Debra is a sustainability advocate, guiding advisers like lawyers to positively influence sustainable behaviour in business. She sees the legal fraternity as having an integral role in influencing climate conscious behaviour and hopes the profession spearheads positive change at scale. She currently volunteers as the Pro-Bono Coordinator for Lawyers for Climate Action NZ Inc. For years Debra was a property lawyer in private practice where she built a strong reputation. She combines decades of legal training and experience, with a passion for making a difference.


Dr Melanie Baker-Jones, Climate Adviser & Project Manager, Te Whakahaere Āhuarangi Ltd
Melanie Baker-Jones, is a Climate Consultant committed to driving collaborative initiatives that empower individuals and businesses towards a climate-positive and sustainable future. With a foundation degree in Sociology and a background in IT, Melanie's early career has been shaped by problem-solving and a keen understanding of the collective wisdom gained from diverse and shared experiences. Having been admitted as a solicitor and with experience working with both corporates and SMEs, Melanie brings a unique perspective to the table. Her journey of knowledge acquisition includes not only her early career degree but also a law degree and a subsequent PhD. This doctoral research delved into the intersections of regulatory systems, legal liability, resilience, disaster management, and social media, supported in part by the prestigious Bushfire and Natural Hazard Co-operative Research Centre (CRC). This academic journey reinforced the importance of translating research findings into actionable strategies, underlining Melanie's dedication to fostering collaboration and enhancing collective capabilities. Melanie's passion for knowledge dissemination is reinforced through her role as a co-lecturer in climate change law at the University of Auckland. Continuously expanding her horizons, she is currently focused on deepening her understanding of te ao Māori and its relevance to risk perception, while also honing her proficiency in te reo. Drawing on her diverse background and expertise, Melanie continues to focus her efforts on the climate sector. Through collaborative ventures, she endeavours to integrate various strands of knowledge and experience, ultimately driving tangible outcomes for communities and future generations. Join Melanie on her journey as she navigates the intricacies of climate action, charting a course towards a sustainable future for all.