Implementing EDI across a large formal research network: Contributing to equitable and sustainable water solutions for a changing climate

Increasingly, large transdisciplinary research networks focusing on pressing global problems are being encouraged through research investment strategies. One of the challenges is understanding how inequities in these networks shape scientific practice in environmental research. While granting agencies in Canada frequently require some equity metrics, these tend to focus on four specific equity-deserving groups. It is argued that this does not go far enough. Global Water Futures, a large cold region water research network, introduced an EDI strategy and implementation framework in 2021. The process began with a critical review of the literature, consultations within the network, and a desire to translate cutting-edge EDI knowledge and practices into a form that could be operationalized. Embedded in the approach is an intersectional lens that considers how power structures differentially impact people based on race, gender, 2SLGBTQIA+ identity, disability, and more. The implementation framework gives structure to EDI to further the program’s transdisciplinary research commitments and as a transformative set of actions to support new ways of working that challenge power dynamics in water research. Towards effective EDI, the strategy considers institutional relationships, research impact, and knowledge mobilization. Other natural resource sectors and environmental organizations working to integrate the UN Sustainable Development Goals laterally may be able to learn from this process to frame and implement EDI towards more inclusive water research. Given the climate emergency, working together towards sustainable and equitable solutions is critical, disrupting hegemonic research norms and engaging diverse voices and knowledge systems.