William E. Rees

William Ernest Rees, born on December 18, 1943, is a distinguished Canadian professor and ecologist renowned for his pioneering work in environmental science. He is best known as the originator of the 'ecological footprint' concept, a groundbreaking method that quantifies human demand on the Earth's ecosystems. This innovative approach has significantly influenced public discourse on sustainability and resource management.

Rees dedicated a substantial part of his career to academia at the University of British Columbia, where he taught from 1969 to 2011. During his tenure, he also served as the director of the School of Community and Regional Planning (SCARP), shaping the minds of future leaders in environmental policy and planning.

Even after his retirement, Rees remains actively engaged in research and writing, focusing on the intersection of public policy and global environmental trends. His work continues to inspire discussions on sustainable socioeconomic development, emphasizing the importance of ecological integrity in planning for the future.

As an Emeritus professor at UBC, Rees has left an indelible mark on the field of ecology and continues to advocate for sustainable practices that align with the ecological conditions necessary for a thriving planet.