The University of Waterloo Climate Institute brings together scientists and students to elevate and enhance the impact and excellence of innovative interdisciplinary research and education that empowers business, government and civil society to respond effectively to the climate crisis.
University of Waterloo’s unique combination of strengths and depth of expertise allows us to deal head-on with the complexity and interconnectedness of social, political and technological dimensions of the climate crisis.
Our expertise and focus
Our three core areas of research and innovation are developed through lenses of equity, justice, governance, and innovation to create truly impactful solutions for this existential global challenge.
News
Driving Research Impact: How UWaterloo's Centers and Institutes Excel in Knowledge Mobilization
Effective knowledge mobilization is essential for turning research into real-world solutions, and university centers and institutes play a pivotal role in making this happen. By fostering co-creation with end-users, nurturing long-term relationships with key stakeholders, and translating complex ideas into accessible formats, these hubs bridge the gap between academia and application.
Reflecting on 2024: Top 5 Milestones for the Waterloo Climate Institute
As we step into 2025, the Waterloo Climate Institute reflects on a year of meaningful achievements that have advanced climate action through research, collaboration, and education. These milestones were made possible by the collective efforts of world-class research members, dedicated partners, and an engaged community. With the University of Waterloo’s unparalleled network of climate experts—the highest concentration of climate researchers at any Canadian university—2024 has been a year of progress and impact.
Transforming Alpaca Waste: A Sustainable Solution for Soil Health
Researchers at the University of Waterloo are collaborating with Maple Ridge Acres to transform alpaca waste into a sustainable compost. By combining waste fiber, manure, and biochar, they aim to create a natural alternative to chemical soil amendments. This innovative approach not only improves soil health and nutrient content but also addresses waste management issues. The project is led by Waterloo Climate Institute member Dr. Maren Oelbermann and post-doctoral fellow Augustine Kwame Osei.
Events
Climate Con: Call for Posters
Calling all undergrad and grad students! You are invited to submit a proposals to present at the Student Showcase at this year’s Climate Con 2025 hosted on Friday February 7th 2025. The Climate Con is an annual climate change convention, organized to showcase the contributions of students across all disciplines that tackle climate change.
Student Forum: Climate Change in your Curriculum
Calling all students from professional degree programs at UWaterloo!
Join us for a lively and interactive session where you’ll get to share your experiences and ideas with students from other disciplines and help shape a project to integrate climate change into the curriculum of your program.
Student Climate Con
Join the Waterloo Climate Institute's Student Climate Action Program for Student Climate Con 2025 on February 7th at Federation (FED) Hall. This full-day convention features inspiring keynotes, panels, workshops, and a student showcase addressing climate anxiety and hope. Highlights include interactive sessions, poster awards, networking, and lunch. The event's objectives are fostering climate action, building community, and supporting climate emotions. Themes like Climate Hope and Youth Climate Anxiety take centre stage, empowering attendees as catalysts for change.