Elizabeth Dowdeswell

Overview

Elizabeth Dowdeswell (née Patton) born Belfast, Northern Ireland November 9, 1944. Canadian stateswoman; first woman head UN Environmental Program as Under Secretary 1992-8; professor environmental studies; Lt. Governor Ontario 2014.

Quotations

“People, young and old, must gain the capacity to make sound environmental decisions; to act instinctively to protect life on Earth. . . We know that no environmental issue has yet emerged that is not within the capabilities of the human race to resolve. We have tremendous knowledge and technological capability. And we have very compelling evidence on most issues for the need to act. But, somehow, what is still missing is the political will to do so.” (Aug. 11, 1997 UN Gen. Assembly; photo royalroads.ca)