Unveiling the Science Behind a Sustainable World: Dr Jackie Dawson and the Environment, Society and Policy Group at the University of Ottawa
Dr Jackie Dawson, a leading researcher at the University of Ottawa’s Environment, Society and Policy Group (ESPG), is at the forefront of efforts to address the challenges posed by global climate change. Established in 2011, ESPG focuses on the what and the how of science needed to support a sustainable world in the face of climate change.
The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has warned that no sector of society will escape the impacts of global warming. The risks of climate change are complex and varied, affecting everything from natural resources to global supply chains. ESPG is dedicated to understanding and addressing these risks through transdisciplinary research that brings together experts from science, government, industry, and Indigenous communities.
One of the key focuses of ESPG is on the human and policy dimensions of environmental and economic change. While much attention is given to the physical changes in the environment, such as melting ice caps, ESPG also considers the broader implications of these changes on society. By combining cutting-edge scientific techniques with social values and ethics, ESPG aims to provide real-world solutions to the challenges posed by climate change.
Dawson and her team at ESPG place a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion in their research projects. By engaging with scholars and students from around the world, and by incorporating Indigenous and local knowledge, ESPG ensures that their work is relevant and impactful. They also work closely with communities, industry, and government to develop policy-relevant solutions that are both feasible and effective.
Looking ahead to the International Polar Year in 2032, Canada is planning a major science mission in the Arctic to better understand the dynamics of climate change in the region. ESPG is playing a leadership role in this mission, known as Arctic Pulse, which aims to bring together global science and knowledge communities to address the challenges of climate change in the Arctic and beyond.
Overall, ESPG’s work is not only advancing our understanding of climate change but also creating connections and solutions on a global scale. By leveraging diverse perspectives and cutting-edge research techniques, ESPG is leading the way in building a more sustainable and resilient world in the face of climate change.