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University of Toronto Launches Climate Institute with Major Funding
The University of Toronto is set to establish a new climate institute, supported by a generous $60 million donation from the Brian and Joannah Lawson Family Foundation. This initiative aims to address key issues related to climate change through innovative research and practical applications.
The Lawson Climate Institute will focus on a range of topics, including sustainable technologies, climate policies, and transforming university campuses into “living labs” for testing new climate solutions in real-world scenarios. This innovative approach aims to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical application.
Part of the funding will be allocated to create three endowed chairs dedicated to policy innovation, sustainable energy, and sustainable food systems. Additionally, the institute will provide 100 scholarships annually for students pursuing research in climate solutions, fostering the next generation of thinkers and problem solvers in this critical field.
Brian and Joannah Lawson expressed their hope that their substantial contribution will inspire other philanthropists to support climate initiatives, which currently receive only a small portion of philanthropic funding in Canada.
Meric Gertler, president of the University of Toronto, emphasized the crucial role universities play in combating climate change, especially as some corporations and nations seem to be retreating from their environmental commitments.
In a related context, the Trump administration in the United States has been reported to cut funding for climate-related research at prominent universities, including a recent $4 million reduction for Princeton University. This climate funding context further highlights the importance of supporting academic research in Canada.
Attracting Global Talent
Several renowned U.S. academics are considering roles at the University of Toronto, including Jason Stanley, a philosophy professor who has been vocal about the political climate in the U.S. While Gertler mentioned that attracting leading climate researchers to the university was not a driving factor behind the donation, he acknowledged the fortuitous timing of this initiative in reinforcing U of T’s commitment to sustainability.
Gertler remarked that attracting distinguished scholars from around the globe would be an added benefit to the university’s climate initiatives.
The donation coincides with a broader announcement by the Clean Economy Fund, a charitable organization aimed at promoting philanthropic efforts towards climate solutions on Earth Day. The Lawsons have highlighted the intricate connections between climate change and various philanthropic goals, including food security and social equity.
The Future of Philanthropy and Climate Action
Joannah Lawson conveyed her strong belief in the necessity of transitioning to a net-zero carbon economy. She cautioned that without sustained investment in climate action, Canada risks falling behind in an evolving global economy.
Brian Lawson emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “now is definitely not the time to be stepping back.” Brian serves as vice chair at Brookfield Corporation, where he has led financial strategies aligned with sustainability.
The University of Toronto has declared its intention to divest from fossil fuel companies by 2030, and its School of the Environment has established policies rejecting donations from these companies while allowing individual researchers to seek their funding independently. When questioned about institutional relationships with fossil fuel entities, Gertler affirmed that the university does not maintain any such associations.
U of T’s goal is to make its St. George campus carbon positive by 2050, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions effectively. David Sinton, a professor of mechanical engineering with a focus on carbon conversion research, will serve as the interim director of the new climate institute.
Source
globalnews.ca