RELEASE: Holger Dalkmann Takes the Wheel of WRI’s Sustainable Transport Program

Holger Dalkmann (Credit: World Resources Institute)

Dalkmann will oversee the EMBARQ program’s global network of offices in five countries.

The World Resources Institute (WRI) today welcomes Holger Dalkmann as the new director for its EMBARQ program, which catalyzes environmentally and financially sustainable transport solutions to improve quality of life in cities. Dalkmann will provide strategic leadership and management for EMBARQ’s global staff and partners, as well as direction for its fundraising and communication activities.

“Holger is widely recognized as both a thought leader and entrepreneur with a proven track record of success in the private, public and non-profit sectors,” said Manish Bapna, WRI’s interim president. “He has the skills and vision to build on EMBARQ’s accomplishments and develop lasting solutions to today’s transportation challenges.”

Dalkmann brings a strong background in business development, research, and policy in the transport and environment sectors. Dalkmann was formerly program director at the Transport Research Laboratory, a world-renowned research and consultancy company based in the United Kingdom, where he led key national and international projects in the field of climate change and sustainable transport. He has also worked as a policy adviser for governments in Asia and Europe, and consulted for international organizations like the Asian Development Bank, World Bank, United Nations Environment Program, European Environment Agency and GIZ.

“I have a deep, personal commitment to WRI’s mission and values having spent my entire career dedicated to sustainable development, transport, and climate change,” Dalkmann said. “I am excited and humbled to leverage my experiences to promote EMBARQ’s vision, strengthen the links between its international staff and partners, and continue to find global transport solutions.”

Dalkmann helped establish the Bridging the Gap Initiative, which encourages international recognition of transport’s role in addressing climate change. He was also one of the co-founders of the Partnership on Sustainable Low Carbon Transport, where he fostered a strong global network of partners and provided key technical input on best practices and policies of sustainable transport.

Dalkmann also introduced a global audience to the “Avoid-Shift-Improve” paradigm of sustainable transport—a framework that EMBARQ, and governments, multi-lateral banks, and international associations have adopted to avoid unnecessary car use; shift to more efficient transport modes, like mass transit, cycling and walking; and improve existing technologies.

Clayton Lane, who served as EMBARQ’s Acting Director since early 2010, will continue on as EMBARQ’s Chief Operating Officer.

“Clayton provided outstanding leadership and dedication during this time, as EMBARQ has grown and moved in exciting new directions under his watchful eye,” said Bapna. “We’re excited to push forward with EMBARQ’s innovative approach to sustainable transportation under Holger’s leadership.”

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The World Resources Institute (www.wri.org) is an environmental think tank that goes beyond research to find practical ways to protect the earth and improve people’s lives.

EMBARQ – The WRI Center for Sustainable Transport (www.embarq.org) catalyzes environmentally and financially sustainable transport solutions to improve quality of life in cities.