Nfamara K Dampha
Climate change adaptation; natural capital accounting; ecosystem service modeling and valuation; climate risk analysis; nature-based solutions; environmental and resource economics; adaptation finance and policy
Background & Expertise
Nfamara K. Dampha is a lead natural resources scientist and director of The Earth–Economy Modelers (TEEMs) under the Natural Capital Project at the University of Minnesota’s Department of Applied Economics. His work sits at the intersection of climate change adaptation, natural capital accounting, and ecosystem service modeling, with a focus on advancing science-based solutions that strengthen community resilience and inform sustainable decision-making.
He collaborates globally with governments, multilateral institutions, and research partners to quantify nature’s value in economic systems, assess climate risk, and design policy-relevant strategies for adaptation and equity. He serves as a lead climate adaptation negotiator for The Gambia and the Least Developed Countries Group under the UNFCCC and senior climate change consultant to the World Bank. Through his research and policy engagement, he works to bridge science and decision-making in support of a just and sustainable transition.
Featured Project: Nfamara K Dampha
Minnesota’s Land Accounting and Valuation: The Environmental-Economic Accounting Approach
Challenge
Minnesota faces a range of land use challenges, including rapid urban expansion, agricultural pressures and the degradation of biodiversity. However, the state lacks a comprehensive land accounting system that aligns with the UN System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA) framework. This limits the ability of policymakers and resource managers to make informed decisions that balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.
Meet the Project Team
Project Lead
All Projects Featuring Nfamara K Dampha
Towards Mainstreaming Nature’s Value in Minnesota’s Decision-Making
A review of knowledge gaps, implementation challenges and emerging opportunities
Connecting Changemakers: IonE welcomes 2023 class of affiliates
Embodying IonE’s ethos and approach to solving today’s complex environmental challenges through interdisciplinary research and partnerships, our Affiliates Program brings together individuals from various backgrounds and disciplines who are motivated to drive real-world solutions.