Accelerating the transition to a just, resilient, low-carbon future

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

A new policy brief from the Waterloo Climate Institute emphasizes the urgent need for Canada to adopt a national strategy for marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR). As international negotiators discuss marine pollution control, mCDR emerges as a vital option for Canada to meet its 2050 net-zero emissions goal. The brief outlines strategies for research, development, and regulation of mCDR, highlighting its potential to complement broader climate efforts. It stresses the importance of public engagement and calls for a coordinated regulatory framework to ensure responsible deployment and alignment with international commitments.

Lauryn Margarit’s journey from justice services to climate advocacy highlights the link between equity and environmental issues. At the John Howard Society in 2023, she saw how wildfires disproportionately affected homeless populations, fueling her passion for environmental justice. This led her to pursue a Master of Climate Change at the University of Waterloo, where she deepened her understanding of climate impacts on marginalized communities. Her studies and experience prepared her for a role as a policy analyst with Environment and Climate Change Canada, focusing on making federal climate data accessible to enhance community resilience. As she graduates, Margarit is committed to continuing her work in climate policy.

As global leaders gather at the 16th Convention on Biological Diversity (COP 16) in Cali, Colombia, a new brief by University of Waterloo and Climate Institute researchers underscores the importance of nature-based solutions (NbS) in addressing climate change and biodiversity loss. Authored by Marie-Claire Cordonier Segger and colleagues, the brief highlights how protecting, managing, and restoring ecosystems can mitigate climate risks and conserve biodiversity. It advocates for Indigenous-led conservation and stronger policies to protect critical ecosystems like peatlands and wetlands. The brief urges the development of a National Nature-Based Solutions Strategy to position Canada as a leader in NbS.

Events