International Institute for Sustainable Development Appoints New Director of Sustainable Natural Resources Management Program
Winnipegger Venema to lead revitalized, water-focused program
WINNIPEG — The International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) has appointed Dr. Henry David Venema of Winnipeg, Manitoba, as Director of the Sustainable Natural Resources Management program.
The re-shaped program will focus initially on water resources issues on the Canadian Prairies and in the northern United States. IISD's international work on community-based natural resources management, mining issues and on environment and security will continue as well.
Dr. Venema recently completed his PhD in Systems Design Engineering from the University of Waterloo. He also holds a Master's Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Ottawa and is also a gold medalist in Physics and Civil Engineering from the Universities of Winnipeg and Manitoba respectively. He is a professional engineer with extensive experience in water resources, natural resources, and energy sector planning in North America, Africa and Asia. He has been a researcher at IISD since 2001 working primariliy on climate change and energy issues.
"Hank brings a special energy and an exceptional breadth of practical experience to the position," said IISD President and CEO David Runnalls. "He's able to link research from different disciplines and deliver innovative approaches to solving some of the environment and development issues facing the world. And his Prairie roots give him a solid perspective on regional matters."
"It's an honour to be selected," said Venema. "IISD is doing internationally recognized research in climate change, international trade and investment, and other areas. I'm looking forward to advancing our work in natural resources and its key linkages with our other research programs."
About IISD
The International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) is an award-winning independent think tank working to accelerate solutions for a stable climate, sustainable resource management, and fair economies. Our work inspires better decisions and sparks meaningful action to help people and the planet thrive. We shine a light on what can be achieved when governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities come together. IISD’s staff of more than 250 experts come from across the globe and from many disciplines. With offices in Winnipeg, Geneva, Ottawa, and Toronto, our work affects lives in nearly 100 countries.
You might also be interested in
New Agreement Marks First Step in Addressing Energy Charter Treaty Legacy
This is an important move to prevent legacy arbitration claims under the treaty, but more remains to be done.
Canada's Sustainable Jobs Legislation: A milestone for workers and communities on the path to net-zero
IISD celebrates the Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act, Bill C-50, being officially passed into law as a significant milestone to engage and support workers and communities in moving to a low-carbon economy.
NDCs, long-term strategies should include roadmap for fossil fuel producers: IISD
Analysis by policy think tank IISD shows that seven of the 20 largest fossil fuel producing countries make no mention of fossil fuel production in their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and six others stated an intention to continue or increase production.
Report Calls on Fossil Fuel Producers to Map “Transition Away” in NDCs
With governments due to submit the next generation of NDCs in 2025 a new report identifies five elements countries should include to reflect the outcome of the global stocktake.