UTS launches Centre for Climate Risk and Resilience

The Centre for Climate Risk and Resilience at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Business School, led by internationally recognised Professor of Environmental Finance Martina Linnenluecke, will celebrate its official launch on Wednesday 13 September.

Dean of UTS Business School Professor Carl Rhodes said the new research centre aims to help businesses address the physical and transition risks brought on by climate change – safeguarding the ecosystems and local communities in which businesses operate.

“Climate change is one of civilisation’s greatest challenges, presenting a paradigm shift in the way business, industries and markets respond, adapt and rethink their impact on society and our environment,” said Professor Rhodes.

“Building upon UTS Business School’s longstanding commitment and expertise in climate and sustainability, this new Centre will be uniquely positioned to support businesses and industry in taking urgent and immediate collaborative action,” he said.

Professor Linnenluecke, the Centre’s inaugural Director, brings extensive experience and high-calibre research in the dynamic fields of climate change, environmental finance and sustainability.

She is a chief investigator on several ongoing ARC research projects on climate risk disclosure, the impacts of climate policy on financial markets, the cleantech transition in China and Australia, as well as sustainability-oriented fintech lending platforms.

Professor Linnenluecke said the Centre’s goal is to be recognised for global research impact; helping businesses develop new strategies for value creation and sustainability.

“We will provide decision-makers in business, industry and government with world-leading research, education and thought leadership on the strategic impacts of climate change and resulting environmental and social issues,” Professor Linnenluecke said.

“As one of several specialist research centres at UTS Business School focused on developing innovative solutions to complex societal challenges, the Centre will help close the gap between knowledge and action,” she said.

The Centre will focus on six key research themes; adaptation and Resilience, decarbonisation, sustainable finance, climate analytics, metrics, targets and disclosures, and policy impacts and responses.