Hazel Fernandez

Hazel Fernandez, Ph.D., splits her time between Sydney and Barcelona, serving as a Distinguished Research Fellow at the Business School of the University of New South Wales. Her academic focus lies in sustainable development, with a deep dive into community engagement, innovation management, and sustainable business practices. Over her nearly 30-year career, Hazel has been an influential voice in promoting green initiatives within urban environments.

Her early work explored the impact of community-based projects on local economies and environmental sustainability. In recent years, she has shifted her attention to how cities can foster innovation ecosystems that support startups and SMEs in adopting environmentally friendly technologies. She is particularly interested in the role of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable urban development.

Currently, Hazel's research delves into the challenges and opportunities of smart city development, the integration of renewable energy sources into existing infrastructure, and strategies for enhancing urban resilience against climate change impacts. She also explores how policy frameworks can better support sustainable growth and inclusivity.

Hazel co-authored "Sustainability: Innovating for a Greener Tomorrow," a textbook now in its tenth edition, which has been translated into multiple languages. At the University of New South Wales, she spearheaded an interdisciplinary program focused on sustainable entrepreneurship, equipping students with the skills needed to tackle global environmental challenges. Additionally, she has shared her expertise with government bodies and private enterprises across continents, advising on sustainable development strategies.

As of December 2024, Hazel continues to inspire and educate through her dynamic teaching style and groundbreaking research, advocating for a future where business success goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship.