The Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions is a research and engagement network across four collaborating research universities – University of British Columbia, University of Victoria, Simon Fraser University, and University of Northern British Columbia.

PICS supports the cogeneration of climate solutions research that can be actively used by decision-makers to develop effective mitigation and adaptation policies and actions in BC and beyond.

OBJECTIVES

PICS was officially established in March 2008 through an endowment from the British Columbia Ministry of Environment. PICS is a catalyst for generating climate change solutions. We support an approach to our programs and research that defines meaningful activities focused on partnerships and engagement, helping solution seekers become effective solution makers, from question to collaboration, and idea to action.

PICS aims to:

  • Advance the global knowledge base on climate change solutions
  • Develop effective mitigation and adaptation solution options that are actively used by policy and decision-makers
  • Foster partnerships and networks that build capacity in addressing climate change
  • Promote an interdisciplinary approach to climate solutions

  • Communicate and inspire engagement on climate solutions options by government, business, and the general public

Check out the PICS Strategic Plan and our Annual Reports for details on our operations, governance, and current and future research areas.   

PROGRAMS

PICS carries out a number of research and outreach programs:

 

Call for Proposals now open for 2022 PICS Opportunity Projects

Applications opened April 28, 2022 for high-impact climate solutions proposals funded by the PICS Opportunity Projects Program (OPP).

OPP supports new and emerging leaders to pursue bold and impactful climate solutions research. PICS is open to your ideas and innovation, and encourages teams to contact PICS staff to discuss their proposal before applying.

Successful projects are awarded up to $180,000 over a maximum three-year duration, and three to five awards are made per call. This year, PICS is offering an extra opportunity for a Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Project, funded by the BC Government.

Applications for 2022 call for proposals close on Aug. 3, 2022. Notification of adjudication decisions will be made in December 2022, with projects to start in early 2023.

For more information, visit the PICS Opportunity Projects Program page, read the 2022 Competition Guide for Applicants and the ZEV Guide to Applicants, or email picsopp@uvic.ca.

Explore the most recent projects funded under the OPP’s program, or view all previous OPP's projects.

PICS UBC PROGRAM MANAGER

Sara Muir Owen is the PICS UBC Program Manager and works closely with the PICS main office at UVic to manage research partnerships and events at UBC.

Contact Sara with your PICS related questions by email or call her at 604-822-4644.

EMAIL SARA