Scaling nature-based solutions for climate resilient infrastructure

Role: Research assistant, Madagascar
Project: Air pollution and green infrastructure public perception survey in Antananarivo, Madagascar and health data digitalisation
Affiliation: Department of Environment, University of Vakinankaratra
ORCID ID: N/A
Email: haritianamandresy@gmail.com

Mandresy Haritiana Rakotonirainy was born in Madagascar. She is a Master’s student in Environmental Management at the University of Vakinankaratra, passionate about ecology, nature conservation, and the sustainable use of natural resources.  She is particularly committed to addressing waste management and pollution challenges in her country, believing that improving the quality of the natural environment is essential to the well-being of both people and ecosystems.

In 2025, she worked as a research assistant for the Flourish research programme. She was conducting surveys on air quality perception and green space use in Antananarivo, Madagascar. This experience sharpened her understanding of the real-world effects of pollution on urban residents’ health and deepened her interest in conserving and improving the natural environment in urban areas. It further strengthened her drive to contribute to practical waste management solutions in Madagascar.

She is also an active member of the Malagasy Mianala local association, which empowers young environmental leaders to develop climate-related projects and build local capacity for conservation and resilience. Through this engagement, Mandresy has grown as a collaborative team player who adapts readily to new field challenges and who firmly believes that science-based action is key to solving environmental problems.

Her goal is to contribute to projects that promote conservation and sustainable development in Madagascar. With her dedication, curiosity, and hands-on experience, Mandresy is ready to make a meaningful and lasting impact in the field of environmental management in her country.