Richard Mbatu

Dr. Richard Mbatu is an Associate Professor in the School of Geosciences at the University of South Florida, with expertise in forest governance, climate change policy, and political ecology. His research focuses on sustainable development frameworks, particularly REDD+ initiatives in the Congo Basin and coastal resilience in Florida. He holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Oklahoma State University and multiple graduate degrees in geography and environmental management.

Research interests center on human-environment interactions, deforestation mitigation, and community-based adaptation strategies. Key themes include political economy of resources, international climate agreements, and equity in conservation policies. His work integrates field studies with policy analysis to address carbon emissions and biodiversity loss.

Publications emphasize forest governance, climate adaptation, and socio-ecological systems, with recent articles exploring community agency in conservation and methane dynamics in agroforestry. Research demonstrates interdisciplinary approaches bridging environmental science and policy reform.

Awards and Grants:

• Fulbright Scholar for climate resilience research in Eswatini
• NSF-funded PIACCART program director ($428,885)
• UN Environment GEO for Youth Lead Author
• Multiple teaching excellence awards

Advises 15+ graduate students on climate adaptation theses and leads field research teams across Africa and Florida. Secured over $1M in grants for community resilience projects, including nature-based solutions in Tampa Bay and interdisciplinary training programs.

Directs the Program in Interdisciplinary Approaches to Climate Change Adaptation Research and Training (PIACCART), fostering collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and vulnerable communities.