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"I will be using artificial intelligence to better understand how reforestation influences cloud coverage. This will enhance our understanding of the role that reforestation can play as a climate mitigation strategy."
Pierre Etienne Banville
Geography master's student in the
Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field
After practicing as an actuary for nearly 15 years, I decided to make a career change in 2021 to better align my skills with my passion for the environment and my desire to work on solutions to the climate crisis. Therefore, I returned to university to pursue a second degree and I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Environment with a major in Global Environmental Systems from ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV. I then decided to pursue a Master of Science in Geography since I am particularly interested in doing research that can enhance our understanding of nature-based climate solutions and inform climate policies.
Why did you choose to come to ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV?
I did my second undergraduate degree at ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV and wanted to pursue my Master's degree under the supervision of Dr. Kirsten Zickfeld.
How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?
I will be using artificial intelligence to better understand how reforestation influences cloud coverage. This will enhance our understanding of the role that reforestation can play as a climate mitigation strategy.
What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?
Climate Change Mitigation, Reforestation, Artificial Intelligence
How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?
I did two RA-ships during my undergrad at ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV. They have been instrumental in helping me learn scientific research methodology and getting ready for graduate school.
Have you been the recipient of any major or donor-funded awards? If so, please tell us which ones and a little about how the awards have impacted your studies and/or research
I have a received an Undergraduate Student Research Award in the summer of 2023, which has enabled me to pursue research with Dr. Kirsten Zickfeld on nature-based climate solutions. It was a very enjoyable experience and it has confirmed my desire to pursue graduate studies in this field.
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Contact Pierre:peb1@sfu.ca