Wilhelmina

Wilhelmina Green, Ph.D., stands out globally for her trailblazing work in the interplay between environmental influences and human health, focusing on how surroundings shape our wellness. An advocate for cross-disciplinary collaboration in the realms of environment-health interactions, Wilhelmina has brought forward groundbreaking insights that bridge biology with urban planning and architecture. She currently serves as the Research Lead at the Boston Institute for Urban Health and Sustainability, a position she took up after founding the Environmental Wellness Lab at Harvard University. Holding the prestigious Charles Eliot Norton Chair in Environmental Studies, she is also an esteemed professor with affiliations across various departments including Urban Planning, Environmental Science, Public Health, and Landscape Architecture.

In 2024, Dr. Green’s latest book, "Green Spaces: Enhancing Life in Urban Environments," will hit the shelves. This compelling read explores the transformation of cityscapes into thriving ecosystems that promote mental and physical health. Her earlier works, "Urban Roots: The Impact of Nature on City Living" and "Breathing Cities: Designing Metropolises for Wellbeing," have become cornerstones in urban design education and practice, inspiring cities worldwide to rethink their green spaces.

During her tenure as a leading researcher at the Environmental Protection Agency (2015-2030), Wilhelmina spearheaded initiatives like the EPA Urban Ecosystem Program and co-led the EPA's Task Force on Sustainable Cities. Her efforts have earned her recognition from numerous bodies, including the United Nations Environment Programme and the Royal Geographical Society. She has been honored with awards such as the Presidential Award for Excellence in Scientific Research and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Conservation Service Medal.

Dr. Green’s contributions extend beyond academia; she regularly advises international organizations like the United Nations Human Settlements Programme and has spoken before the European Parliament on the importance of integrating nature into urban planning. Her documentary series, "Nature in the Concrete Jungle," which aired on National Geographic Channel, highlights the critical role that natural elements play in modern city life. Through her work, Wilhelmina advocates for a future where every urban area can be a sanctuary for its inhabitants, fostering a healthier planet for all.