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 a globally recognized think tank with 3 decades of experience working to solve the world’s most pressing sustainable development challenges. We combine deep expertise in a wide range of issues with a collaborative approach to research, policy advice, and hands-on support to ensure these solutions are brought to life. Headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba, we are a diverse team of over 300 professionals working from offices in Canada, Switzerland, and other locations around the world.
You might also be interested in
Bonn Climate Talks: What to watch for the fossil fuel transition
As governments return to Bonn for the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies meetings (SB64), the transition away from fossil fuels will be a key test of whether growing political momentum can translate into practical progress.
Energy Subsidy Reform Urgent as Spending Jumps 266.5%, Experts Say
Reforming Indonesia’s energy subsidies would strengthen fiscal credibility, ease pressure on the state budget, and support President Prabowo Subianto’s energy transition agenda, according to policy experts.
Vietnam, Indonesia launch new regulations for forest carbon projects
Vietnam’s rules say that revenue from forest-based carbon credits will be prioritised for forest protection and development, as well as community livelihoods. Indonesia has introduced a nesting framework to avoid double counting.
The world is moving off fossil fuels as Canada continues to live in the past
Like generals fighting the last war, our national debate is still dominated by fossil fuel exports. We’re still building LNG terminals and oil pipelines. While Canada’s auto strategy offered some support for EV buyers, Ottawa is still providing a half-billion-dollar taxpayer subsidy to a single diesel-engine pickup manufacturer.