Dr. Jonathan Foley is a distinguished environmental scientist and executive director of Project Drawdown, the world's leading resource for climate solutions. He earned his PhD in atmospheric sciences from the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he developed sophisticated climate models integrating biological elements of the planet. During his 15-year tenure at UW-Madison, he launched the Climate, People, and Environment Program and founded the Center for Sustainability and the Global Environment, serving as the first Gaylord Nelson Distinguished Professor of Environmental Studies. He subsequently established the University of Minnesota's Institute on the Environment as its founding director and later served as executive director of the California Academy of Sciences before spearheading Project Drawdown.
Foley's groundbreaking research has made significant contributions to our understanding of global ecosystems, food security, and climate change interactions. His work integrating biological elements into climate models provided foundational insights for understanding Earth system dynamics. As executive director of Project Drawdown, he has led the development of the most comprehensive plan ever proposed to reverse global warming, cataloging over 100 solutions across energy, food, industry, transportation, and natural systems. His leadership has transformed the climate discourse from one of doom and gloom to one focused on actionable solutions and opportunities.
A highly effective science communicator, Foley regularly presents at major international venues including the Aspen Institute, World Bank, and National Geographic Society, making complex environmental issues accessible to diverse audiences. His work has positioned him as a trusted advisor to governments, foundations, non-governmental organizations, and business leaders worldwide seeking practical sustainability solutions. Foley has published over 130 peer-reviewed scientific articles in prestigious journals such as Science and Nature, establishing him among the top 1 percent most cited global scientists. He continues to advance Project Drawdown's mission of providing evidence-based climate solutions to businesses, governments, and communities globally, demonstrating that the opportunities to address climate change still outnumber the problems.
