Barry Barton

Barry Barton is a Professor at the Te Piringa Faculty of Law, University of Waikato, specializing in energy, natural resources, and climate change law. He has been affiliated with the institution since 1991, following studies at the University of Auckland and extensive international experience in Canada, including roles at the University of British Columbia and the Canadian Institute of Resources Law.

His research focuses on climate change legislation, mining law (particularly critical minerals), energy efficiency, circular economy principles, and regulatory theory. His work has influenced court decisions in Canada, South Africa, and New Zealand, as well as policy reforms in climate mitigation and resource management. He collaborates with organizations like the Environmental Defence Society and contributes to global discussions through the International Bar Association.

Teaching interests include Climate Change Law, Energy Law, and Natural Resources Law. He has supervised over a dozen doctoral students addressing topics ranging from energy hardship eradication to environmental compensation mechanisms. His interdisciplinary research projects include significant funding for initiatives like Derisking Carbon Dioxide Removal and the Āmiomio Circular Economy program.

Publications span over 160 works, emphasizing legal frameworks for geothermal energy governance, carbon capture regulation, and equity in climate policy. His applied research directly informs New Zealand’s climate strategy, energy efficiency policies, and mining law reforms.