Catherine Willan

Catherine Willan is an Associate Professor (Teaching) at University College London's Bartlett School of Environment, Energy & Resources. She serves as the Programme Director for the MSc Economics and Policy of Energy and Environment (EPEE) and leads the postgraduate module on Business & Sustainability.

Her educational background includes:

• PhD in Energy Demand from University College London (2019)
• Master of Research from University College London (2015)
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from University of Cambridge (1997)

Catherine's research focuses on the intersection of energy, sustainability, and business practices, with particular emphasis on climate change impacts and adaptation, environment policy, sustainability accounting and reporting, and organizational behavior in sustainability contexts. Her work often takes a qualitative approach to understanding how businesses and organizations can effectively implement low carbon strategies, particularly in the built environment. She has extensive experience working at the nexus of academic research, policy development, and practical implementation in the sustainability field.

Catherine has contributed to numerous publications examining the energy performance gap, corporate carbon reduction strategies, waste management challenges, and pathways to net-zero carbon in commercial real estate. Her research often employs case study methodologies and qualitative analysis to understand the complex social, organizational, and policy dynamics that influence sustainability outcomes.

Professional qualifications:

• Senior Fellow (SFHEA) from Advance HE
• ACA (Associate Chartered Accountant) from Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales

With 20 years of experience spanning both education and the private sector in low carbon policy and strategy, Catherine brings practical insights to her teaching and research. She has advised on numerous projects related to energy demand reduction, corporate sustainability reporting, and environmental policy implementation.

Catherine contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly focusing on Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), and Climate Action (SDG 13).