Emma Gildesgame
Climate Adaptation Scientist, Massachusetts
Somerville, MA
Areas of Expertise
Community Engagement, Conservation, Restoration, Watershed Management, Water Quality
Biography
Emma Gildesgame is a Climate Adaptation Scientist for The Nature Conservancy in Massachusetts. She collaborates with communities and stakeholders to co-develop and implement equitable, nature-based solutions that benefit both people and nature at a pace and scale that matches the urgency of climate change.
Emma is passionate about elevating and empowering communities most often impacted by climate change. She takes a holistic, people-centered approach when working with partners to secure funding and implement solutions that align with the communities needs and priorities.
Emma holds a Master of Environmental Management in Water Resources Science and Management from the Yale School of the Environment and a B.A. in Environmental Science from Colby College. Her graduate work focused on urban coastal climate resilience planning.
Before joining TNC in 2021, Emma focused on water quality planning and restoration, nutrient pollution and estuaries projects for New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (NEIWPCC). She’s also worked on wetland restoration, climate communication, watershed and marine education and outdoor recreation initiatives with various organizations across New England, Colorado and California.
When not at home in Greater Boston, Emma is likely exploring western Maine or the White Mountains. Whether wandering in the woods and mountains, kayaking, skiing or baking, Emma is always connected to nature.
In the Media
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As climate risks mount, state unveils new plan to adapt
Emma notes that streamlining salt marsh permitting is a much-needed step to protect coastal communities and habitats. Read More
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Yes, this winter has been warmer than usual
Climate models predict increases in winter precipitation in the coming years. Learn more
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A Toxic Stew on Cape Cod: Human Waste and Warming Water
The Nature Conservancy has been working with Cape Officials to address water problems. Read more
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Marstons Mills homes test nitrogen-removing septic wastewater system
Emma explains why alternative septic systems are the most cost-effective option to remove nitrogen from wastewater. Learn more
Climate Resilience
Equitably Funding Community-Led Climate Action
Alongside communities, we're putting equity front and center as Massachusetts shapes the policies, programs and funding for tackling climate change and adapting to its effects.
Towns Take Action
Nearly all of Massachusetts' cities and towns are participating in the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness program to strengthen their response to climate-change-exacerbated challenges.
Experimental Solutions to Reduce Nitrogen Pollution on Cape Cod
Too much nitrogen in our waterways threatens our drinking water, economy, recreation opportunities and human health. New pilot programs are working with nature to change that.