Derek GLIDDON

Derek Gliddon is an environmental informatics and research leader with over 30 years of international experience advancing biodiversity conservation, environmental governance, and sustainable development. He currently serves as Director of Environmental Science Development at the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, where he leads the Abu Dhabi Environmental Research Network, the agency’s knowledge management function, and the development of the annual Environmental Research Needs Register to align science with policy priorities.

Derek has a strong record of building international partnerships and digital innovations to support conservation and sustainable use of natural resources. He co-founded the Eye on Earth Alliance with UNEP, IUCN, WRI, and GEO, convening a global community of over 5,000 experts to promote environmental knowledge exchange and SDG monitoring. He previously headed the Informatics Programme at UNEP-WCMC, where he led major biodiversity data initiatives and global assessments, and held senior roles at Masdar City, the UK National Remote Sensing Centre, and international consulting firms.

His expertise spans remote sensing, GIS, biodiversity informatics, and AI-enabled knowledge systems. Key achievements include designing UNEP’s SDG Indicator Reporting Information System, architecting EAD’s AI-powered Scientific Knowledge Graph, and developing conservation tools for protected area planning, coastal ecosystem mapping, and migratory species management.

He holds a BSc in Physics, Astronomy & Mathematics and an MSc in Remote Sensing (GIS specialisation) from University College London. Derek brings long-standing experience working with governments, UN agencies, NGOs, and academia to mobilise science, technology, and data in support of IUCN’s mission to conserve nature and shape effective environmental policy.