Shaping a climate-resilient future for people and planet

Better research leads to better responses, which is what the world needs to address the climate crisis. As one of the oldest and largest interdisciplinary faculties of the environment in Canada, we have been studying the drivers and impacts of climate change for decades. Recognizing the complexity and urgency of the issues, we expanded our research scope and leveraged advanced technologies and local and global collaborations to accelerate innovation and action.

Our commitment to climate research and action has attracted globally renowned scholars who consistently serve as lead authors and contributors to Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reports and as advisors to governmental and non-governmental organizations like the World Bank, International Olympic Committee, United Nations, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and Federation of Canadian Municipalities. By sharing our expertise with partners around the world, together, we will build a climate-resilient future.

Our climate change research is led by global leaders in climate science

Climate change researchers in the Faculty

We're focused on making real-world impact

Pairing fundamental and applied research, Environment scholars are working to advance climate research and data-informed decision-making and response by societal actors. From significantly improving the inputs to climate and risk models to building and testing increasingly advanced models to supporting adaptation and mitigation policies and initiatives, our researchers empower and unite people and organizations around the world to create relevant, practical and equitable climate solutions and build greater climate resilience. Read about our research impact below.

New framework released to build climate-resilient shorelines

Canada must act to protect the longest marine and freshwater coastlines in the world from the surge of climate change

New framework released to build climate-resilient shorelines

Canada must act to protect the longest marine and freshwater coastlines in the world from the surge of climate change

glacier visible on top of the water in Antarctica

Snapshot of Antarctica’s past helps predict future climate

Models of 34 million years of water flow below key Antarctic glacier could alter estimates of rising sea levels

Snapshot of Antarctica’s past helps predict future climate

Models of 34 million years of water flow below key Antarctic glacier could alter estimates of rising sea levels

Adapting winter sports in the era of climate change

In a first-of-its-kind study from the University of Waterloo, athletes and coaches provide insights on how competition organizers can improve the safety, fairness, and feasibility of winter sports

Adapting winter sports in the era of climate change

In a first-of-its-kind study from the University of Waterloo, athletes and coaches provide insights on how competition organizers can improve the safety, fairness, and feasibility of winter sports

Waterloo Climate Institute receives $1.2 million for climate adaptation action

From resilient supply chains to the integration of climate change adaptation into professional degree programs, funding will help advance capacity for climate adaptation strategies

Waterloo Climate Institute receives $1.2 million for climate adaptation action

From resilient supply chains to the integration of climate change adaptation into professional degree programs, funding will help advance capacity for climate adaptation strategies

Research centres and institutes

Join us and be part of the solution

Whether you're a future student, researcher, partner, or donor, your contribution will drive progress toward a climate-resilient future. Our undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs empower the next generation of climate-ready leaders, who, through academic and hands-on learning have gained the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in a changing world. Join us in building a more sustainable future!