Paul H. York

Paul H. York is a Researcher at James Cook University's TropWATER department, specializing in seagrass ecosystems, coastal ecology, and climate change impacts. His work focuses on seagrass health, blue carbon dynamics, and the interplay between marine biodiversity and human activities. He has led numerous long-term monitoring projects in regions like the Great Barrier Reef and Torres Strait, emphasizing the importance of collaborative, community-driven conservation strategies.

Research Interests:

• Seagrass ecology and resilience
• Climate change effects on coastal ecosystems
• Blue carbon quantification and conservation
• Herbivory impacts on marine plant communities
• Coastal habitat restoration and management

Key Contributions:

York's work bridges ecological research with practical applications, including:

• Monitoring seagrass meadows in high-risk industrial areas (e.g., Port of Abbot Point)
• Developing biophysical models for seagrass dispersal
• Assessing the role of mega-herbivores (e.g., dugongs, turtles) in structuring ecosystems
• Advocating for cost-effective remote sensing tools in blue carbon accounting

Grants and Collaborations:

York collaborates with institutions like Griffith University, the National Environmental Science Programme, and international seagrass networks. His projects often involve interdisciplinary teams and community engagement, particularly with Indigenous groups in Torres Strait.

Labs/Teams:

Primary affiliation: TropWATER (Tropical Water Quality Centre at JCU). Active participant in global seagrass research networks (e.g., ISBW workshops).