Bryn Greer-Wootten, professor emeritus at York University, died on Aug. 5 in his 87th year.
Greer-Wootten joined York University in 1972 as a faculty member in the Department of Geography. He was promoted to full professor in 1983 and later cross-appointed to the Faculty of Environmental Studies in 1994. Following his retirement in 2003, he remained engaged with the University, contributing to York as a senior scholar.
His academic career spanned more than five decades, with appointments at McGill University, the University of California, Berkeley and several European institutions. Over time, his research evolved from quantitative geography to more qualitative and humanistic approaches, with a focus on environmental sustainability, energy policy and the relationship between nature and society.
Greer-Wootten was a long-time contributor to York’s Institute for Social Research (ISR), serving as acting director of the survey research centre and later as associate director. He supported hundreds of researchers through his work with the Statistical Consulting Service, helping refine methodologies and research design.
Internationally, he collaborated with the Czech Academy of Sciences where he was appointed visiting scientist and later editor-in-chief of Moravian Geographical Reports. In recognition of his contributions, he received the Karel Engliš Honorary Medal for Merit in the Social and Economic Sciences in 2018.
Greer-Wootten was predeceased by his partner Mirka Ondrack and son Stephen. He is survived by his siblings and extended family in the U.K. and France.