News

A warm welcome to our 600+ new undergraduate and graduate students! Whether you are a new or returning student, we want to support you in your transition to campus. Start by reviewing campus resources. 

In July, a Faculty of Environment delegation led by Dean Bruce Frayne and Dr. Simron Singh travelled to Mauritius to assess progress across key research initiatives, strengthen partner engagement, and shape the next phase of implementation for the RECOVER project. 

The Government of Canada’s Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) recently announced new grant recipients, with 12 Faculty of Environment researchers awarded funding. Congratulations to Amelia Clarke, Cameron McCordic, Janice Barry, Andrea Collins, Michelle Rutty, Steffanie Scott, Jason Thistlethwaite, Julie Bernard, Leia Minaker, Joe (Zhu) Qian, Stephen Quilley and Nancy Worth. 

Dr. Amelia Clarke in the School of Environment, Enterprise and Development has been recognized for her excellence in graduate student supervision. Her contributions span rigorous academic advising, transformative mentorship and a deep commitment to building inclusive research communities. Congratulations, Dr. Clarke! 

Bashirah, a master's student in SEED, and Gurpreet, a PhD student in sustainability management were selected as finalists for the 2026 GRADflix video competition.

The Faculty of Environment is delighted to welcome Dr. Adwoa Appiah as the newest professor in the School of Environment, Enterprise and Development. Starting this February, Dr. Appiah will bring her extensive expertise in sustainable finance, ESG integration, and the role of financial institutions in advancing sustainable development to the school.

Dr. Julie Bernard from the School of Environment, Enterprise and Development is named a research fellow at the Institute for Sustainable Finance to advance society’s understanding of the rising anti-ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) movement. 

This is the question a new documentary, Metabolism of Islands, by Dr. Simron Singh explores. Featuring voices from across the world’s small island nations, the film brings together science, storytelling, and lived experience to illuminate both the challenges and pathways to climate change resilience.

Michael Brooks (BES ’75, PhD ’98) has spent decades shaping Canada’s real estate sector with vision, purpose, and a commitment to sustainable development. From his early days in urban planning at the University of Waterloo to leading REALPAC, he has advanced housing policy, championed mentorship, and fostered collaboration across the industry. His work continues to transform communities and inspire the next generation of real estate leaders. He is the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award winner.

Rex Auyeung (BES ’77) has dedicated his career to advancing sustainable urban development across finance, insurance, and transit. As Non-Executive Chairman of MTR Corporation, he oversees one of the world’s most advanced urban transit networks, while his lifelong commitment to public service and education continues to inspire communities in Hong Kong and beyond. He is the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award winner.