Ryan Plummer

Ryan Plummer is the Director of the Environmental Sustainability Research Centre (ESRC) at Brock University, currently on leave. He holds adjunct appointments at the University of the Sunshine Coast (Sustainability Research Centre) and the University of Waterloo (Department of Environment and Resource Studies). His interdisciplinary research program centers on the governance of social-ecological systems, with emphasis on adaptive co-management, resilience theory, water resources, and environmental stewardship. Dr. Plummer holds a PhD in Rural Studies from the University of Guelph and has received multiple awards for research and teaching excellence.

His core research explores:

• Novel governance strategies for complex socio-ecological challenges
• Mechanisms of collaboration and social learning in resource management
• Climate adaptation frameworks, particularly in water governance and flood planning
• Resilience-building in communities and organizations
• Human-nature relationships through outdoor education and stewardship

Recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate strong thematic coherence around disaster resilience, collaborative governance, and pandemic-era environmental behavior. Over 80% of articles focus on climate adaptation, social-ecological systems modeling, or stakeholder engagement methodologies, reflecting sustained emphasis on actionable sustainability science.

Notable scientific recognition includes:

• Chancellor’s Chair for Research Excellence (2008)
• CMHC Excellence in Education Award (2008)
• Faculty Teaching Excellence Award (2004)

As ESRC Director, he leads transdisciplinary initiatives and partnerships focused on sustainability solutions. No specific grants, labs, or student advisees are detailed in source materials.