Waiwera in New Zealand is a small coastal village with a geothermal reservoir underneath. Hydrogeological models support water management by providing insights into sustainable extraction from the system. It is artesian and the geothermal water is of meteoric origin percolating down to sufficient depth getting heated. It rises through a fault zone into the shallow and leaky aquifer. Most recently the springs have restarted discharging geothermal water on the beach.

The prevailing view in the scientific community is that large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere and highly radioactive waste must be disposed of safely. In that regard, studies on natural processes that extend over thousands of years help to assess the long-term behaviour of deep geological repositories. From a purely scientific point of view, CO₂ storage and final disposal of highly radioactive waste are feasible.

The division on Energy, Resources, and the Environment (ERE) of the European Geosciences Union (EGU) follows an interdisciplinary approach. This volume of Advances in Geosciences presents papers covering key themes from recent developments, beside others, in geothermal systems, critical raw materials, carbon cycle dynamics and renewable energy integration, emphasizing the role of interdisciplinary research in overcoming technical, economic, and societal challenges.

Waiwera is a small coastal village located on New Zealand's North Island above a geothermal reservoir. The origin of the warm water is not well understood. An inferred fault zone at the base of the reservoir is thought to channelise the uprising thermal water. The observed characteristic cold and hot water distribution in the system was simulated and the temperature profiles show an improved agreement in the near field around the centre of the reservoir.

The world is facing a critical issue of biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation, despite efforts to address it. While positive steps are being taken in the adoption of comprehensive conservation policies, more effective science-for-policy approaches are necessary to foster connectivity, engage communities, and promote transformative change. This study outlines how scientists can drive impactful change within and beyond their communities to contribute to meeting global biodiversity targets.