Juliana Gatti-Rodrigues

Biography and Expertise of Juliana Gatti-Rodrigues

Juliana Gatti-Rodrigues has dedicated her career, spanning over two decades, to the critical intersection of environmental conservation and public health. As the founder and director of the Instituto Árvores Vivas (Living Trees Institute), she has established herself as a leading voice in Brazil for nature-based solutions that promote climate resilience and enhance community well-being. Her work is a testament to the power of integrating ecological wisdom into the fabric of urban life, particularly within educational and healthcare environments.

Her expertise is profoundly aligned with the 3rd WCTCIM’s thematic axis of “Planetary Health, One Health, and Well-being Societies.” By developing programs that reconnect people with nature, she directly addresses the congress motto, demonstrating how fostering “Knowledge Diversity” from ecology can build healthier societies. Beyond that, her focus on evidence-based projects supports the principles of the Gujarat Declaration, which calls for scientific validation of traditional and complementary practices.

Furthermore, the work of Juliana Gatti-Rodrigues provides a compelling case for South-South collaboration, showcasing innovative Brazilian models for sustainable urban development that can be adapted globally. Her advocacy for including children’s rights in climate action brings a unique and vital perspective to public health discussions, making her contributions indispensable to the congress.

Professional Career

The professional trajectory of Juliana Gatti-Rodrigues showcases a seamless progression from grassroots environmental education to national policy influence. Her career is characterized by long-term commitments and the ability to build impactful, lasting initiatives. This journey reflects a deep understanding of how to translate ecological concepts into practical programs that resonate with diverse audiences, from young children to high-level government officials.

Her work has consistently focused on creating systemic change, moving from single projects to shaping broader curricula and public policies. This strategic approach has amplified her impact, positioning her as a key architect of sustainable urban living in Brazil.

• 2006 – Present: Founder and Director of Instituto Árvores Vivas, where she leads the design and implementation of all programs, including the flagship “Learning and Living with Nature” initiative in hospitals and schools.
• 2007 – Present: Long-term Environmental Education Consultant for SESC São Paulo, developing innovative environmental itineraries and training programs for educators across the state.
• 2023 – Present: PhD Candidate at the University of São Paulo (ESALQ/USP), conducting advanced research on applied ecology to inform her practical work.
• 2018 – 2019: Curriculum Development Consultant for the RedBalloon English School Franchise, where she created a nationwide nature-connection curriculum for early childhood education.
• Present: Active contributor to national governance, serving as an Alternate Counselor for Brazil’s National Environmental Council (CONAMA) and a member of the Steering Committee for the Interministerial Program for Green and Resilient Cities.

Academic Qualifications

The academic foundation of Juliana Gatti-Rodrigues is uniquely interdisciplinary, merging the creative problem-solving of design with the rigorous science of ecology and conservation. This diverse educational background provides her with a holistic framework for addressing complex socio-ecological challenges. Her studies have consistently built upon one another, creating a powerful synthesis of knowledge that underpins her innovative work in sustainability and public health.

This blend of disciplines is crucial to her ability to develop solutions that are not only scientifically sound but also culturally relevant and beautifully designed. Consequently, her academic path serves as an inspiring model for a new generation of leaders working at the nexus of planetary and human well-being.

• 2023 – Present: PhD Candidate in Applied Ecology at the Escola Superior de Agricultura “Luiz de Queiroz” (ESALQ), University of São Paulo (USP), focusing her doctoral research on nature-based solutions.
• 2020: Master’s Degree in Biodiversity Conservation & Sustainable Development from the esteemed Escola Superior de Conservação Ambiental e Sustentabilidade (ESCAS/IPÊ).
• 2010: Specialization in Design for Sustainability from Gaia Education, a global organization promoting education for sustainable living.
• 2000: Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design from Universidade Presbiteriana Mackenzie, where she developed her foundational skills in design thinking and project development.

Research and Publications

Juliana Gatti-Rodrigues is an active researcher who contributes scholarly work to the growing body of evidence on the benefits of nature-based solutions. Her research focuses on quantifying the co-benefits of integrating nature into urban environments, with a particular emphasis on the health and well-being of children and adolescents. This work is critical for translating advocacy into evidence-informed policy, a principle central to the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy and the Gujarat Declaration.

Her publications appear in respected academic journals and books, bridging the gap between scientific findings and practical applications for policymakers and public health professionals. By systematically reviewing and contributing new data, she strengthens the case for investing in green infrastructure as a public health imperative. Therefore, her research directly supports the 3rd WCTCIM’s goal of promoting evidence-based contributions to global public health.

Key publications by Juliana Gatti-Rodrigues include:

• A 2024 book chapter titled “Natureza, clima e saúde pública: reflexões para o fortalecimento da agenda no Brasil,” which analyzes the critical links between nature, climate, and public health in the Brazilian context.
• A 2023 systematic review in the journal *Urban Forestry & Urban Greening*, “Nature-based Solutions for whom? A systematic review of the co-benefits for children and adolescents,” which consolidates evidence on how green spaces impact youth.

Awards and Recognitions

The impactful work led by Juliana Gatti-Rodrigues has garnered significant recognition from both national and international bodies, highlighting her leadership in the fields of environmental conservation and public health. These awards and honors underscore the innovative quality and social relevance of her initiatives, celebrating her ability to create positive change for communities and ecosystems alike.

These accolades not only validate her specific projects but also bring greater visibility to the importance of the nature-health nexus. Consequently, they serve as powerful endorsements of her mission and help amplify her influence on a broader stage. Her selection as a TEDx speaker further reflects her status as a compelling and influential thought leader.

• 2022: Global Climate and Health Alliance Grant: Awarded for her project “Climate and Health: Voices and Vision of Adolescents,” recognizing its innovative approach to engaging youth in climate action and health advocacy.
• 2015: Social Environmental Responsibility Award: Presented to the Instituto Árvores Vivas by the Municipal Chamber of São Paulo, honoring the organization’s outstanding contributions to the city’s social and environmental fabric.
• TEDx Speaker: She has delivered two inspiring TEDx talks, “A natureza que nos cura e ensina” (The nature that heals and teaches us) and “Praia de paulistano” (The beach for São Paulo’s residents), sharing her vision with a global audience.

Board and Committee Activities

Juliana Gatti-Rodrigues actively shapes environmental and public health policy in Brazil through her strategic participation in key governmental and civil society councils. Her presence in these influential bodies ensures that the perspectives of environmental conservation and children’s rights are integrated into national decision-making processes. This work is a crucial component of her strategy to drive systemic change from within established governance structures.

Her roles demonstrate a deep commitment to collaborative governance and the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement. By representing civil society organizations, she acts as a vital bridge between community needs and federal policy, advocating for more inclusive and sustainable urban development. This involvement is therefore essential for translating local insights into national strategies.

• Alternate Counselor, National Environmental Council (CONAMA): Represents the CLICA – Children Climate Coalition, one of Brazil’s most important environmental deliberative bodies, influencing national environmental regulations and policies.
• Member, Steering Committee for the Interministerial Program for Green and Resilient Cities: Contributes to shaping a key federal program aimed at promoting sustainable urban development across Brazil, again representing CLICA.
• Contributor, Children in G20 Initiative: Lends her expertise to ensure that the rights and well-being of children are considered in the high-level discussions of the G20.

Connect with Juliana Gatti-Rodrigues

To further explore the work of Juliana Gatti-Rodrigues, from her influential projects at the Instituto Árvores Vivas to her academic research, please visit her professional and institutional profiles online. These resources offer a comprehensive view of her career, publications, and ongoing contributions to creating healthier and more sustainable communities.

Official Institute Website: Instituto Árvores Vivas

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