Climate Justice and Water Resilience: The Research Impact of Dr Danny Marks
DCU Water Institute - 10 Years of Discovery, Innovation and Impact
Research focus and connection to water and environmental challenges
Dr Danny Marks is an Assistant Professor of Environmental Politics and Policy in the School of Law and Government at Dublin City University. His work focuses on the political dimensions of climate adaptation, with particular attention to the injustices faced by vulnerable communities in regions experiencing severe water-related risks such as flooding, drought and coastal erosion.
Danny’s research explores how power, governance and inequality shape exposure to climate impacts. Much of his work centres on Southeast Asia, where rapid urbanisation, high climate exposure and uneven state responsiveness create urgent challenges for water security and climate resilience. His research aligns directly with the Water Institute’s mission to advance understanding of water-related risks and to support solutions that protect both people and ecosystems.
Real-World Impact
Measuring impact in governance-focused research can be especially challenging in contexts marked by corruption, centralised authority and limited institutional transparency. Despite these barriers, Dr Marks’s work has contributed to increased awareness of water-related risks in Thailand, a country facing intensifying climate pressures.
Through his research, publications and engagement with civil society, Danny has helped draw attention to the vulnerabilities created by weak governance and inequitable adaptation strategies. His work has added momentum to calls for stronger, more transparent and more inclusive water-related policies in Thailand and the wider region. By highlighting the experiences of at-risk communities, he supports efforts to ensure that adaptation plans do not deepen existing inequalities.
How the DCU Water Institute has supported his research
Danny credits the DCU Water Institute with helping disseminate his findings to a broad range of relevant stakeholders. The Institute’s networks, communications channels and interdisciplinary community have enabled his research to reach audiences involved in environmental governance, water management and climate policy, both in Ireland and internationally.
Message for the 10th Anniversary
“Congratulations to the DCU Water Institute on its 10th anniversary. It has made a significant contribution to addressing water-related challenges in Ireland and beyond. I hope it will continue to thrive and drive meaningful progress. I am honoured to be part of the Institute.”
Read Dr Marks’s full profile:
https://www.dcu.ie/researchsupport/research-profile?person_id=15569