Matthias manages flagship projects and initiatives related to sustainable mountain development focusing on climate change adaptation, ecosystem management, environmental governance and use of earth observation. He spearheads several initiatives in mountain regions including the Andes, Central Asia, Caucasus and East Africa.
While based in Vienna, Matthias works closely with other units and divisions such as the Terrestrial Ecosystems Unit, GRASP, Asia Pacific Office and Latin America and the Caribbean Office, as well as UN Environment’s collaborating centre GRID-Arendal.
Matthias currently manages the Luxembourg-funded “Vanishing Treasures” programme promoting climate-smart wildlife conservation and Ecosystem-based adaptation in Virunga, Central Asia and Bhutan as well as leads UN Environment’s “Mountain Heroes” initiative that aims to promote sustainability in the mountain sports and outdoor sector.
Matthias graduated in law at the University of Vienna, specializing in international law and relations with a focus on environmental issues. He previously worked with UN Environment’s collaborating centre GRID-Arendal, EURAC Research and served in the Legal Office of the Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs. He has furthermore worked for various NGOs and think tanks on security, peace and disarmament, as well as other institutions. Matthias is a passionate mountaineer and climber, and has a strong passion for Arctic-related issues.
