Biography: Dr. Alvaro Umaña

Former Principal Adviser
and Leader of the Energy and Environment Group
Bureau of Developmental Policy
United Nations Development Program

Dr. Umaña served as Principle Adviser and Leader of the Energy and Environment Group for the United Nations Development Program until 2004. His international career includes a wide range of experiences in academia, public service, government, and non-governmental organizations. He is a founder and former Chairperson of the World Bank Inspection Panel. He also served as the first Minister of Energy and Environment in the Republic of Costa Rica. Dr. Umaña has authored or contributed to numerous books and articles in the areas of energy, conservation, and biodiversity. He has been the recipient of a Nature Conservancy Public Service Award and a Special Achievement Award from the National Wildlife Federation. Dr. Umaña holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics, a Master of Science degree in Environmental Pollution Control, a Master of Science degree in Economics, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Environmental Engineering.

Last modified September 28 2008 05:12 PM