Alexis Schäffler
Urban sustainability / infrastructure / governance
University of California, Berkeley
ABOUT ME
I examine the relationship between urban sustainability and infrastructure. I am particularly interested innovations around infrastructure through asset management and creative ways in which urban governments are thinking about service delivery.
I have academic and professional experience in Southern Africa and the United States. My work in both contexts involves assisting urban governments in the search for more sustainable infrastructure. My resume ranges from policy advisory, academic publications, professional consulting and own research on green infrastructure, the green economy and cultural ethnographies.
As part of my PhD research, I am connected to various strategic planning processes in Johannesburg and Gauteng. I situate myself between various governments, institutions and researchers to both advise and critically reflect on urban sustainability in practice.
I am currently completing my doctorate at the University of California, Berkeley in Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning. Previously, I've received a Masters and Honors of Philosophy in Sustainable Development cum laude as well as a BA in Economics, Politics and Decision-Making cum laude from Stellenbosch University.
I am an avid cook, traveller and activity-seeker.
EDUCATION
RECENT EXPERIENCE
2013 - 2017
University of California, Berkeley
Doctorate in Philosophy (Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning)
2010
Stellenbosch University
Masters in Philosophy (Sustainable Development and Planning) cum laude
2009
Stellenbosch University
Honors in Philosophy (Sustainable Development and Planning) cum laude
2006 - 2008
Stellenbosch University
Bachelors of Arts (Decision-Making and Value Studies) cum laude
Research Associate, Gauteng City-Region Observatory
Climate consultant to the Finmark Trust
Climate research at the Urban Institute, Washington, D.C.
Shortlisted for the World Bank Africa Fellows Program