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
Eco-Friendly Plastics from Food Waste: A Bacterial Breakthrough
Researchers at the University of Waterloo are developing biodegradable plastics from food waste using bacteria. This innovative method produces eco-friendly plastics that degrade naturally and could be cheaper to manufacture. The team, including Waterloo Climate Institute member Dr. Trevor Charles and Dr. Tizazu Mekonnen, is working on cost-effective extraction techniques for large-scale production. These bioplastics have potential applications in food wrap, drug delivery, and tissue repair, supporting a circular economy by transforming waste into valuable resources. The study was recently published in ACS ES&T Engineering.
COP Fosters Global Air Quality Initiatives
Shahan Salim, a PhD candidate at the University of Waterloo, is advancing air quality research through collaborations formed at COP28 and COP29. By securing funding for early warning systems in low-income countries, Salim's work focuses on using low-cost sensors and AI to monitor air quality. His efforts aim to protect vulnerable populations from harmful pollutants, enhancing health equity and climate resilience globally.
Navigating Climate Challenges Together Through Hope and Community
On November 14, the University of Waterloo hosted "Walking the Path of Hope," focusing on climate anxiety, Indigenous healing, and reconciliation. Amanda St. Marie introduced speakers, including Elder Myeengun Henry and Dr. Kelsey Leonard, who discussed land stewardship and wellness. They emphasized reconnecting with nature and honoring treaties as pathways to healing. The Healing Forest, designated a national Healing Forest, symbolizes reconciliation and community responsibility. The event highlighted that "We are all treaty people," urging collective environmental stewardship. It served as a call to action, integrating Indigenous knowledge to address contemporary challenges and foster resilience.