Robert Zimmerman

Robert Zimmerman is a Lecturer in the Department of Landscape Architecture at Harvard University's Graduate School of Design (GSD). He previously served as Director of the Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) from 1990 to 2018, transforming it into a leader in urban water infrastructure science. His work emphasizes sustainable solutions for urban water challenges, including wastewater-to-energy systems, flood control, and climate resilience.

Education: MA in English and BA in English and History from Central Michigan University. Prior to CRWA, he co-founded the National Sports Academy at Lake Placid, a boarding school for winter sports athletes.

Research focuses on urban water systems, environmental markets, and nutrient pollution mitigation. Notable projects include the first nonprofit-led phosphorus TMDL analysis for the Charles River, identifying pavement as a key nutrient source, and pioneering phosphorus trading programs. Under his leadership, the Charles River transitioned from one of America's most polluted to the 'cleanest urban river.'

Teaching includes courses like 'Creating Environmental Markets' (Spring 2025), blending policy, ecology, and economics to address contemporary environmental challenges.