As a college grounded in natural medicine, South Pacific College of Natural Medicine recognises its responsibility to care for the living systems that support health, healing and wellbeing. Our commitment to environmental sustainability is woven through everything we do, from daily campus activities to how we teach, learn, grow herbs, and run the Paua Clinic. 

Our approach is guided by Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the principles of Tiwaiwaka – healing the mauri of the whenua*. Students are encouraged to recognise that caring for te Taiao (the natural world or environment) is essential to sustaining the mauri (essential life force) that supports all living beings. 

At SPCNM, awareness of sustainability is practical, intentional, and part of everyday life. Our herb garden and grounds are maintained using organic practices, guided by the maramataka (Māori knowledge of seasonal rhythms). We are committed to minimising our environmental impact through reducing, reusing, recycling, and composting, avoiding pollutants and harm to waterways, and conserving water. These practices create a living learning environment, enabling students to directly experience and understand respectful, regenerative care for the natural world.

We are also committed to reducing our carbon footprint. This includes identifying ways to improve energy efficiency, exploring renewable energy options, supporting online study and meetings where appropriate – and encouraging low-impact travel such as public transport, cycling, and carpooling. Ethical procurement, local sourcing and thoughtful refurbishment are prioritised to ensure our decisions reflect environmental responsibility at every level.

We plan to embed sustainability throughout the curriculum and College life. Students and staff will engage in opportunities to deepen their understanding of kaitiakitanga (guardianship and caretaking) in relation to the sustainable use of herbs in herbal medicine, and emerging challenges – including the environmental impacts of generative AI. By linking knowledge with action, we aim to empower our learners to carry awareness of sustainability and regeneration into their professional practice and everyday lives. 

Our goal is for sustainability at SPCNM to be a collective journey. Guided by values of kotahitanga (unity, togetherness and solidarity) and manaakitanga (nurturing and supporting with aroha, kindness, care and respect) – students, staff, and the wider community will work together to set goals, share ideas, and take meaningful action. By studying with us, students become part of a learning community that is committed not only to natural medicine, but to caring for the environment and contributing to a healthier future for people, plants, and the planet.

*McGowan, R. (2021). Tiwaiwaka: Healing the mauri of the whenua – Ka ora te Whenua, ka ora te tangata