A biologist by training, Jean Lemire is an environmental specialist and renowned science communicator. He was appointed Special Envoy for Climate Change, Nordic and Arctic Affairs by the Government of Québec in September 2017, thus becoming the first envoy in the history of Québec diplomacy. In this capacity, he develops international partnerships and represents the Government of Québec at various multilateral conventions and forums, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Convention on Biological Diversity, the Arctic Council, the Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance and the United Nations Environment Programme’s Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution.
As part of his responsibilities, Jean Lemire acts as:
- Representative and spokesperson for subnational governments at the Convention on Biological Diversity;
- Ambassador for the SAGA project on food security and climate change of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO);
- President of the Advisory Board of the International Climate Cooperation Program (ICCP), winner of the United Nations Global Climate Action Award;
- Coordinator of the Government of Québec’s International Environmental Team.
His work on climate change and biodiversity has led to major international scientific missions. His films, books and web creations have garnered numerous awards. Among his distinctions, he was named an Officer of the Order of Canada, has received two honorary doctorates (oceanography-UQAR and geography-UQAM) and holds the title of Grand Ambassador of the Université de Sherbrooke.
In 2010, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon appointed him UN Green Wave Ambassador for biodiversity. He is also the first recipient of the prestigious Midori Prize for Biodiversity.