At UNEP-DHI, Matthew will collaborate closely with scientists at the Global Wetland Center (GWC), a joint initiative between the University of Copenhagen and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the Global Wetlands Watch, to advance the preservation of wetlands globally – bridging action-oriented research with policy on freshwater, climate, and biodiversity.

Wetlands cover only a small fraction of Earth’s land surface, yet they play a vital role in storing carbon and supporting biodiversity. Peatlands alone make up just 3% of global land area but store twice as much carbon as all the world’s forests combined. Decades of drainage have caused biodiversity loss and increased emissions, highlighting the urgent need for better data and effective solutions.

Matthew’s arrival will support UNEP-DHI’s ongoing efforts to improve data and develop effective solutions for integrating wetlands into global water and climate strategies.