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
National Initiative Set to Integrate Climate Change Knowledge and Skills into Professional Degree Programs
The Waterloo Climate Institute is launching a $1 million project to integrate climate change adaptation knowledge into professional degree programs across Canada. By addressing educational gaps in fields like Engineering, Accounting, Architecture, and Planning, this initiative aims to prepare future professionals to tackle climate challenges and build resilient communities. Supported by Natural Resources Canada, the project will align curriculum with real-world needs through national reviews, new program development, and collaboration with professional associations.
New research set to revamp resilient supply chain strategies with Canadian Businesses
A new project led by the Waterloo Climate Institute, supported by $300,000 from Natural Resources Canada, aims to build climate resilience in Canadian and international supply chains. By developing multi-hazard adaptation tools, engaging businesses and global partners, and creating training curricula, the initiative will enhance capacity to anticipate risks, plan for climate adaptation, and foster long-term sustainability.
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.
Events
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 Pitch Competition – Design a Community Cooling Space - CLIMATE CON 2025
Join the 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.
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.