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
Three Climate Institute members among nine Waterloo researchers awarded $7.5 million
Three Climate Institute members are among nine researchers at the University of Waterloo who have been awarded $7.5 million in funding to support their research as part of the illustrious Canada Research Chairs (CRC) program.
Study by Climate Institute researcher reveals Olympic Winter Games’ climate crisis
Daniel Scott, Climate Institute member and professor from the Faculty of Environment, looked at 93 cities and regions around the world that have previously hosted Olympics and Paraolympics and revealed a stark decline in climatically reliable sites as global warming continues. Only 52 locations that previously hosted an Olympic Winter Games will remain climate-reliable by the 2050’s, and just 46 by the 2080’s.
Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal (mCDR), Canada’s Missing Climate Strategy
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.
Events
Paint & Unwind
Join the student climate action program's student climate council for Paint & Unwind! Take some time to relax before finals on our Paint & Unwind night! Join us to create beautiful leaf-printed bags as well as unique painted designs, unwind with friends, and enjoy a cozy night of creativity.
Climate Science Bootcamp with Peter Crank
Join Dr. Peter Crank from UWaterloo’s Climate Institute for an engaging Climate Science Boot Camp designed exclusively for graduate students and faculty who want to confidently teach climate change. This workshop covers climate science basics, myth debunking, and provides a safe space for questions. Connect with instructors from Waterloo, Laurier, and Conestoga to discuss student needs, explore climate change’s impact across disciplines, and address emotions like hope and despair in teaching. Afterward, network with peers at the Grad House for informal conversation and support.
Climate Con: Call for Posters
The Student Climate Council invites University of Waterloo undergrad and grad students to submit 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.