Climate change expert Maria Waldinger takes over professorship at KU!

Climate change expert Maria Waldinger takes over professorship at KU!

Maria Waldinger has taken on a professorship in economics at the KU, where she focuses on the long-term effects of climate change on the economy. The renowned economist emphasizes that climate change represents one of the greatest challenges of our time. Her research particularly examines responses to climate change in sub-Saharan Africa, supported by a research grant from the Gates Foundation. Waldinger brings extensive international experience to KU, having completed her PhD at major institutions such as the London School of Economics and working at the Grantham Research Institute for Climate Change and the Environment.

Her interest in economic issues resulting from ecological challenges is reflected in numerous publications that she has published in specialist journals such as the Journal of Political Economy and the Journal of Economic Growth. Waldinger most recently worked at the ifo Institute, where she served as deputy director of the Center for Labor Market and Population Economics and led a junior research group on climate economics and sustainable development.

Focus on sustainability

In her new position at KU, Waldinger plans to advance her research on sustainable economic policy. In particular, she will be involved in the bachelor's program “Sustainability in Business and Economics”. Her approach to teaching is based on the belief that sustainability is a long-term process that should prepare future generations for key positions. She sees the reduction of CO2 consumption as a decisive factor.

Waldinger attaches great importance to the practical imparting of theoretical knowledge. She sees education at KU as an opportunity to put students at the center, while fostering a close relationship between students and teachers. This direct approach enables an interactive and engaging learning process.

International expertise and commitment

In addition, Waldinger would like to pass on her international experiences and network to the students. She emphasizes the importance of analytical thinking in economics and attaches great importance to encouraging students to think critically and act independently.

Maria Waldinger plays a central role in the current global discussion about climate change. Their in-depth knowledge and passion for the topic could help raise awareness of the economic impacts of climate change. Your research and teaching at KU will be of great importance in the coming years.

For more in-depth information on Waldinger's work and its relevance to economic development in relation to climate change, additional details are discussed in the publication on the role of CO2 and climate change in Africa, available at econstor can be found.