Awards

Ian Burton is a globally recognized pioneer in climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction, whose work has shaped science, policy, and practice for over five decades. As a contributor to the Nobel Peace Prize-winning IPCC (2007), he has played a critical role in advancing our understanding of climate impacts and the need for proactive adaptation. His numerous honors, including the Order of Canada (2023) and the establishment of the Burtoni Award in his name, reflect his profound influence on environmental research and global resilience efforts. Through his groundbreaking contributions, Ian Burton has empowered communities, policymakers, and scientists to address the pressing challenges of climate change with foresight, compassion, and actionable solutions.

AWARDS

1. Order of Canada (2023)

  • Appointed as a Officer of the Order of Canada in December 2023.

  • Recognized for significant contributions as a scientist and policy advisor specializing in climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction.

2. BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Climate Change (2020)

  • Awarded for pioneering work in incorporating the social dimension into climate change science, particularly the study of adaptation to unavoidable impacts.

  • Shared with Professors Neil Adger and Karen O’Brien.

3. Honorary Doctor of Environmental Studies, University of Waterloo (2013)

  • Received an honorary doctorate for his leadership and groundbreaking work in environmental studies, particularly in climate change adaptation and policy development.

4. Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2012)

  • Commemorates the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the throne.

  • Recognized Ian Burton’s exceptional service and dedication to climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction.

5. Nobel Peace Prize (2007)

  • The 2007 Nobel Peace Prize was jointly awarded to the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) and Al Gore.

  • Ian Burton, as a contributor to multiple IPCC assessment reports, was part of this collective achievement.

6. The Burtoni Award (2003)

  • Established in November 2003 in Ian Burton's honor to celebrate his pioneering contributions to climate change adaptation science.

  • Ian Burton was the first recipient of this distinguished award.

7. Honorary Life Membership, Institute for Environmental Studies, University of Toronto (1984)

  • Awarded for significant contributions to environmental research and education at the University of Toronto.

Order of Canada (2023)

In December 2023, Ian Burton was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada, one of the country's highest civilian honors. This appointment recognizes his significant contributions as a scientist and policy advisor specializing in climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction, and his dedication to advancing environmental policy both nationally and internationally.

BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Climate Change (2020)

Ian Burton, along with Professors Neil Adger and Karen O’Brien, received the BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Climate Change in 2020. This prestigious award recognizes their pioneering work in incorporating the social dimension into climate change science through the study of adaptation to unavoidable impacts

  • IPCC Nobel Prize

  • Burtoni Award

  • Honorary UofT

  • QEII

  • Doctorate Waterloo