Jutta Gutberlet

Jutta Gutberlet is a Professor in the Department of Geography at the University of Victoria and Director of the Community-Based Research Laboratory (CBRL). Her work focuses on

• International community-based development
• Waste governance and climate justice
• Qualitative research methodologies

She has conducted extensive research across Brazil, Canada, and multiple Global South countries.

Her research spans urban sustainability, community-led waste management, and grassroots innovations, particularly examining how informal waste pickers contribute to climate mitigation and social justice. She emphasizes

• Participatory action research
• Knowledge democracy
• Co-creation with marginalized communities

Her recent publications analyze waste governance frameworks and youth-led sustainability initiatives.

Key teaching areas include

• Geographies of Waste
• Global Development Studies
• Research Methods in Human Geography

She collaborates with institutions in Brazil, Canada, and East Africa on projects related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Major initiatives include

• UNICATA: A university for waste pickers
• Youth Zero Waste: Grassroots engagement in Canada/Brazil
• Mapping Waste Governance: Global comparative analysis