Denis Macharia

Denis has trained in environmental and climate change science. He has expertise in a number of fields, including climate change, coral reefs, spatial conservation planning, spatial modeling, remote sensing, GIS and spatial analysis. Prior to joining SERVIR-E&SA, his work focused on understanding the implications of global and local threats to coral reef health and their long-term prospects, and on provision of socio-economic benefits in the Western Indian Ocean through the use of Earth observation, GIS, and ground observations.  His work resulted in several peer reviewed articles and books, including setting up of community managed marine conservation areas in Kenya. His interest in geospatial modeling and his ambitions to expand his knowledge of how humans affect and manage the environment, and in turn, how environmental variability affects society, drove his desire to join SERVIR-E&SA, initially as a Remote Sensing technician in charge of the disasters program and later progressing to the level of a thematic lead in the project. He is currently advancing the development of decision support tools in the area of climate change vulnerability, supporting various national and regional initiatives, and participating in global exchanges that advance best practices in climate change vulnerability mapping and assessments. He is a certified scuba diver, an aspiring saxophone player, and enjoys outdoor activities.