The University of Toronto has announced the establishment of the Lawson Climate Institute, a new interdisciplinary research center dedicated to addressing climate change. Our broader Clean Economy Fund Earth Day initiative Leading the way on the investment side, a key participant in this round is the $60 million gift from the Brian and Joannah Lawson Family Foundation, an incredible investment in climate solutions.
The Lawson Climate Institute is focused on promoting sustainable technologies and climate-focused policy. It intends to convert the university’s campuses into “living labs.” This unique structure will provide an unparalleled opportunity for educators and researchers to experiment with and deploy sustainable practices right on the university’s campus. David Sinton, professor of mechanical engineering, has been named interim director of the institute. His materials design research lab is working to convert carbon dioxide into useful products. This effort is an ideal fit with the institute’s mission to identify practical solutions to climate challenges.
The University of Toronto is committed to being a leader in sustainability. It has set ambitious goals for the sustainability of its St. George campus. The ambition of the university is to achieve carbon positive by 2050. To further this stated goal, it will divest its entire investment portfolio from fossil fuel companies by 2030. It’s a gutsy move by the university’s School of the Environment. One changed practice—among many others—now has it refusing donations and sponsorships from fossil fuel companies, proof of its commitment to ethical and sustainable advocacy.
Lawson Climate Institute is dedicated to living into our larger sustainability goals. To further that mission, it will be creating three endowed chairs specializing in policy innovation, sustainable energy, and sustainable food systems. These positions are excellent opportunities to recruit the best scholars and build a bench of cutting-edge research that can better inform smart, effective climate solutions.
University President Meric Gertler articulated the leadership role that climate action can play in the higher education sector. He stated, “If that means that we’re able to attract wonderfully talented scholars from around the world to help us do that, so much the better.” His comments highlight how serious the university is about being on the frontlines of fighting climate change as it is a top priority for Canadian universities.
Joannah Lawson, one of the philanthropists who helped establish the new institute, shared her vision for a sustainable future. “I really firmly believe that the future is a net-zero decarbonized future,” she said, reflecting the vision that drives the foundation’s support for climate initiatives.
Brian Lawson emphasized the urgency of climate action, stating, “Now is definitely not the time to be stepping back.” As the Secretary’s comments suggest, they highlight the need for work to continue to advance climate change fighting technologies and research.
