Sudbury professor awarded King’s Coronation Medal for environmental leadership

The King Charles Coronation Medal on a navy fabric in the Tent Room at Rideau Hall. (Governor General of Canada/X)

Dr. John Gunn, professor emeritus at Laurentian University (LU) and a globally recognized environmental researcher, has been honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his decades of groundbreaking work in environmental science and sustainability.

The prestigious medal, produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Canada. Gunn’s career spans over 40 years, during which he has led transformative research, mentored future environmental leaders and played a pivotal role in Greater Sudbury’s environmental restoration story.

“I am truly honoured to receive this medal,” said Gunn, in a news release.

“This recognition is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing environmental challenges. I am particularly pleased with the opportunity to highlight Laurentian University’s unique role within the Nature Positive University Alliance, as a leader in global biodiversity restoration and sustainability initiatives.”

Gunn’s work began with pioneering research into the impacts of acid rain on aquatic ecosystems. His findings, alongside those of his colleagues, informed policies that significantly reduced industrial emissions and led to the recovery of biodiversity in Sudbury lakes.

As a Canada Research Chair in Stressed Aquatic Systems for 21 years, Gunn founded the Living with Lakes Centre,Vale a hub for environmental research and community engagement. He also served as director of the Cooperative Freshwater Ecology Unit, fostering collaboration among academia, industry and government.

“Our sincerest congratulations go out to Dr. Gunn,” said LU’s VP of research, Tammy Eger.

“This medal not only celebrates his exceptional accomplishments that have restored health to our lakes locally and advanced environmental science globally, but also recognizes his unwavering dedication to mentoring the next generation of environmental leaders. His work continues to inspire us all.”

Gunn has been instrumental in raising international awareness of the region’s environmental restoration efforts. At the 2022 UN COP15 conference in Montreal, he represented Canada, sharing Sudbury’s story with global leaders. His mentorship also played a key role in Laurentian University’s membership in the Nature Positive University Alliance, a network of over 700 institutions worldwide committed to biodiversity restoration and climate action – with Laurentian the only Ontario university in the alliance.

Gunn continues his work as professor emeritus, his legacy resonates through the students, researchers and communities he has inspired, LU stated in its release. His contributions have equipped a new generation of environmental champions to address climate change and biodiversity loss on a global scale.

A special tribute to Gunn will be held on Feb. 25 at a public screening of Planting Hope: A Regreening Story, a research week event presented in partnership with Science North.