Clare Demerse

Bio

Clare Demerse has been a policy analyst with the Pembina Institute's climate change program since March 2006. Pembina's climate program is a centre of expertise on Canadian greenhouse gas reduction policy, with a particular focus on carbon pricing. In her position at Pembina, Clare analyzes government policies to reduce greenhouse gas pollution, works with a range of stakeholders, and acts as a spokesperson in the media.

Prior to her current position, Clare worked as legislative assistant to the Honourable John Godfrey, Minister of State (Infrastructure and Communities) from 2004 to 2006. She has also worked as an intern for Time magazine's Canadian edition in the New York office, at the Montreal Gazette newspaper, and on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

Born in Vancouver and raised in Ottawa, Clare is fluent in English and French. She holds a bachelor's degree in Humanities and a master's in Journalism; both degrees are from Carleton University. Since 2003, she has volunteered as a children's tutor with Frontier College's literacy program. Clare has had a lifelong interest in environmental issues and public policy.

Issue of Investigation

As a 2008 Gordon Global Fellow, Clare will focus on the negotiations currently underway for an international post-2012 climate agreement. This United Nations-led process is scheduled to conclude in December 2009 in Copenhagen, Denmark. As the Bali Action Plan stresses the need for action from developed countries on climate adaptation, technology transfer, and financing for developing countries, Clare's "Countdown to Copenhagen" research will contribute to the expertise of Canadian environmental NGOs in determining an appropriate role for Canada on these three issues key to securing a post-2012 agreement.