In 2020, GEN launched a new $2,000 economics writing prize to commemorate the late Dr Ed Hearnshaw’s significant contribution to the fields of applied economics and environmental policy in New Zealand.

Open to young New Zealanders – tertiary students, recent graduates, junior-level professionals – entry is via a short essay proposing a policy intervention supported by sound economics.

This year, the prize question was: What are the best interventions to incentivise companies and organisations to avoid chemical and industrial pollution, and to clean up any environmental harm that occurs?

At this event, the winner of the 2022 Prize will present their ideas and take questions. This is also a great opportunity to network with other government policy folk and environmental economists.