Joseph

Joseph Marquez, Ph.D., is a dedicated associate professor at the University of California, Berkeley’s School of Environmental Science, where he leads the Sustainable Urban Development curriculum. Joseph, a Mexican-American environmental scientist with a background in urban ecology and certified specialist in sustainable architecture, focuses his research on green building practices and their impact on community development and public health.

In early 2024, Dr. Marquez authored "Urban Roots: The Impact of Green Spaces on Urban Wellbeing," published by Cambridge University Press, which explores how integrating nature into cityscapes can improve residents' quality of life. He also co-authored "The Eco-City Blueprint" (MIT Press, 2023), offering practical solutions for cities aiming to become more environmentally friendly.

Dr. Marquez's expertise spans across various disciplines including ecological restoration, permaculture design, and renewable energy systems. He is a Certified Urban Planner and holds certifications in both Green Infrastructure and Resilience Planning. Passionate about fostering sustainable communities, Joseph founded and serves as president of the Green Heart Initiative, a non-profit organization that promotes urban agriculture and sustainability education in underserved neighborhoods across California.

At UC Berkeley, he has designed and oversees the course "Sustainable Cities of the Future," inspiring students to rethink urban planning through an eco-centric lens. Moreover, he directs the Urban Sustainability Lab, a program dedicated to researching and implementing innovative approaches to urban sustainability challenges. His work bridges the gap between academia and real-world application, making significant contributions to creating healthier, more resilient urban environments.