September 18, 2025
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Sustainability in the Digital Age and Future Earth Canada announces Interim Director and Scientific Co-Director Damon Matthews has been elected to the Royal Society of Canada (RSC). Named a Fellow, Dr. Matthews joins Canada’s most distinguished, independent scholars, artists and scientists as a result of his “outstanding scholarly achievements” in climate science and sustainability research. This recognition by the RSC is the highest honour in the Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences and Sciences.
A professor in the Department of Geography, Planning and Environment at Concordia University, Dr. Matthews’ research has been “foundational to the world’s understanding of the relationship between cumulative emissions of carbon dioxide and global temperature increase.” He is internationally recognized for his work in policy-relevant climate science, as well as for initiatives such as the Climate Clock that use digital visualization and web-based technologies to motivate and accelerate climate action. He has published more than 130 research papers.
“I am honoured to have been selected to join the Royal Society of Canada,” says Dr. Matthews. “There is so much knowledge and expertise amongst Canadian scholars, and we are needed more than ever to apply our expertise in service of societal needs. I look forward to the opportunity to engage with the RSC academic community to articulate and support pathways towards a more sustainable and equitable future in Canada.”
This year, the Royal Society of Canada elected 102 new Fellows. Founded in 1882, the RSC comprises The Academy of Arts and Humanities, The Academy of Social Sciences, The Academy of Science, and The RSC College. Their mandate is to:
- Promote Canadian research and scholarly accomplishment in both of Canada’s official languages,
- Advise governments, non-governmental organizations, and Canadians generally on matters of public interest,
- Recognize academic and artistic excellence,
- Mentor young scholars and artists.
We congratulate all the incoming Fellows and Members! Learn more about the RSC Class of 2025 >