Younsung Kim

Younsung Kim is a Professor in the Department of Environmental Science and Policy at George Mason University's College of Science. She serves as Undergraduate Program Director and was appointed Department Chair for Summer 2024. Her work bridges environmental governance, sustainability, and public policy, with a strong emphasis on private-sector engagement and collaborative solutions.

• PhD in Environmental Science and Public Policy, George Mason University
• MS in Environmental Policy, Seoul National University

Her research focuses on collaborative governance, environmental management systems, climate and renewable energy policy, and sustainable innovation, particularly in packaging and waste management. She explores how firms engage in policy formation and how public-private partnerships can address sustainability challenges in both developed and developing contexts.

The 15 most recent publications (2016–2024) reflect a consistent trajectory in environmental policy, emphasizing empirical analysis of recycling systems, climate risk, green infrastructure, carbon markets, and corporate sustainability strategies. Keywords across these works include environmental governance, public policy, sustainability, and climate adaptation, with sub-fields ranging from stakeholder engagement to circular economy and policy implementation.

Her scientific recognition includes:

• Best Article Award, Academy of Management (2016)
• Teaching Excellence Award, George Mason University (2018)
• Mason Career Connection Award (2018)
• Curriculum Impact Grant (2017)
• Nominee, David P. Baron Award (2023)
• Best Dissertation Award (2010)

Dr. Kim has secured curriculum development grants and has been an external reviewer for high-impact policy programs, including the U.S. EPA’s Pathfinder Innovation Projects and Korean particulate pollution control policy. She mentors students through teaching and research, coordinating core courses like EVPP 337 and EVPP 201, though specific advisees are not listed. She has not led a named lab, but her research team contributes to policy-relevant environmental governance studies.