Honorary degree for global leader in fight against climate change

One of the most important climate change influencers in the world has been awarded an honorary degree by Northumbria University, Newcastle.

Professor Saleemul Huq was awarded the degree of Doctor of Science in recognition of his global leadership in fighting the impact of climate change on our society, and for his work to help developing countries and vulnerable communities adapt to the impacts of climate change.

Professor Huq is currently Director of the International Centre for Climate Change and Development and holds key positions with major international organisations including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Global Centre on Adaptation.

He has attended every United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP) summit to lobby governments, politicians, and advisors to adopt new policies and sign up to impactful agreements and has contributed to several Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Assessment reports.

He has been described as “one of the most trusted and respected global commentators on the climate crisis” and was awarded an OBE in this year’s New Year’s Honours List in recognition of his work to combat climate change in Bangladesh, and to build climate expertise around the globe.

Speaking about his honorary degree, Professor Huq said: "I am incredibly honoured to receive the honorary degree from Northumbria University in recognition of my work on tackling climate change. I am pleased that I will continue to collaborate with colleagues at Northumbria University on research to tackle climate change going forward.”

Professor Huq received his honorary degree during the University’s summer graduation ceremonies, which were held on Northumbria’s Newcastle City Campus.

The ceremonies celebrated the achievements of more than 6,000 students and a number of other honorary graduates, including Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Chris Whitty and newsreader Moira Stewart, across five days. 

Honorary degrees are awarded each year to inspiring people who merit special recognition for their achievements, their links to the University and for inspirational qualities.