The Agora Podcast with Byron Reese: John Matthews on Ecology and Global Water Adaptation

In The Agora Podcast, Byron Reese delves into the inspiring journey of John Matthews, Executive Director of the Alliance for Global Water Adaptation (AGWA).

The Agora Podcast episode description:

John recounts his transformation from a publishing professional to a pivotal figure in environmental conservation, emphasizing his doctoral research on dragonflies and their aquatic life cycle. His experiences, influenced by early climate impact ecologists, led him to contemplate the intricate relationship between species, ecosystems, and evolving climate conditions. This reflection propelled him towards specializing in water, recognizing it as a crucial medium for expressing climate change impacts.

Key Takeaways:

- The inception of his career in water adaptation and resilience with WWF, leading a global freshwater climate adaptation program.

- The founding of AGWA in 2010, was catalyzed by a pivotal workshop and the need for an interdisciplinary approach to water and climate challenges.

- AGWA's growth into a global network, addressing critical issues in climate resilience and water management with diverse stakeholders.

- The evolution of water management strategies in response to changing climate conditions and the emphasis on understanding water systems and cycles.