Katharine Hayhoe is a Canadian atmospheric scientist whose research focuses on understanding the impacts of climate change on people and the planet. As a Distinguished Professor and Endowed Chair at Texas Tech University, and Chief Scientist for The Nature Conservancy, her work has garnered numerous awards and recognitions including being named to the TIME 100 list and a United Nations Champion of the Earth.
Dr. Hayhoe is known for bringing a climate perspective to a wide variety of topics. She frequently engages with diverse audiences and organizations, addressing issues such as climate science, including extreme weather and future risks; regional climate impacts and their effects on natural and human systems; the interconnections between the climate and biodiversity crises; and the importance of natural climate solutions, from regenerative agriculture to green infrastructure.
Dr. Hayhoe is an active researcher whose scientific expertise in developing and applying high resolution climate projections has been instrumental in helping cities, states, and federal agencies strategize for climate resilience. She frequently consults with companies to integrate climate resilience into various aspects of business, from finance to supply chains. A lead author for the U.S. National Climate Assessment since 2008, Dr. Hayhoe recently developed a state-of-the-art set of high-resolution climate projections for the U.S. and plans to expand this globally in the coming year as part of her ongoing efforts to shape and inform effective climate response strategies, particularly among the most vulnerable people and places.
In addition to her scientific expertise, Dr. Hayhoe is a recognized authority in climate and science communication. Her approach focuses on how to navigate all sides of the multifaceted dialogue. This includes understanding what drives individual action, combatting misinformation, and leveraging storytelling to bridge differences, find common values, and foster constructive discussions. Dr. Hayhoe is passionate about the idea that climate action should be integral to every conversation and decision-making process, emphasizing the role each individual can play.
Her efforts in public engagement range from hosting the PBS Digital Series, Global Weirding to co-founding Science Moms, a group that empowers parents to advocate for their children’s future on a warmer planet. Her TED talk, “The most important thing you can do to fight climate change: talk about it,” with over 4 million views, and her recent book, “Saving Us: A Climate Scientist’s Case for Hope and Healing in a Divided World,” reflect her commitment to inspiring hope and action.
Dr. Hayhoe is distinguished for infusing her climate discourse with optimism and resolve. In contrast to the frequent doom and gloom tone of many, Katharine advocates for a holistic approach that connects intellect, emotion, and action. She believes that recognizing the personal impact of climate change on what people love most empowers them to become advocates for climate action; and she practices this herself. As climate ambassador for the World Evangelical Alliance and science advisor to a number of faith-based organizations, she frequently engages with faith communities, discussing how her Christian beliefs inspire her own climate work and how shared values can motivate us all to act on climate.