Opening lecture: Jean Lemire "Des vents contraires soufflent sur l'environnement" (Headwinds blowing over the environment)

Jean Lemire will provide a vivid overview of current climate issues, laying the foundations for the reflections and actions of Les Grands Remous. An essential dive into the "why" of this event, to raise awareness and encourage everyone to take action during these 2 days of content.

‍

Who is Jean Lemire

Jean Lemire, biologist, emissary for climate change and northern and arctic issues, Ministère des Relations internationales et de la Francophonie, Government of Quebec.

Trained as a biologist and renowned science communicator, Jean Lemire is a specialist in environmental issues. His work on climate change and biodiversity has led to major international scientific missions. His films, books and web creations have won numerous international awards.

His many honours include Officer of the Order of Canada, two honorary doctorates (oceanography - UQAR and geography - UQAM) and his appointment as Grand Ambassador of the Université de Sherbrooke. In 2010, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon named him Ambassador of the UN Green Wave for Biological Diversity. He was also the first recipient of the prestigious Midori Prize for Biodiversity at COP-10 in Nagoya, Japan.

Jean Lemire was appointed emissary for climate change and northern and arctic issues by the Quebec government in September 2017, becoming the first emissary in the history of Quebec diplomacy. He represents the Québec government in numerous international forums. He is also coordinator of the International Environmental Team, chairman of the Orientation Council of the International Climate Cooperation Program - ICCP (winner of the UN Climate Action Award) and a member of the strategic committee of Université Laval's Chaire de recherche en droit sur la diversité et la sécurité alimentaire (DDSA).