Faculty Spotlight: Juan Carlos Silva-Tamayo

Prior to becoming the Academic Director of the Bachelor in Environmental Sciences for Sustainability (BESS) at IE School of Science and Technology, Juan Carlos Silva-Tamayo headed a range of corporate, consulting and research activities that apply nature-based climate solutions, mainly focused on coastal and ocean negative emission technologies. Now, Silva-Tamayo is a recognized Earth System Scientist whose primary research focuses on the fascinating field of isotope geochemistry. His research extends to environmental geochemistry from a ONE-Health perspective, highlighting the interconnections between environmental health, animal health, plant health and human health.

But, perhaps to students of the newly inaugurated BESS, he is best known for organizing exciting field trips, crafting interesting classes and orchestrating the new degree, headquartered at the Segovia campus. As a man who has bridged the gap between academia and real-world applications, Silva-Tamayo strives to create a degree that prepares students to drive real and impactful change.

Meet our Academic Director of the BESS:

At IE School of Science and Technology, we talk a lot about being built to breakthrough. What has been your biggest professional or personal breakthrough and why?

One of my significant professional achievements lies in the creation of two transdisciplinary consortia aimed at addressing critical environmental challenges of the 21st century: climate change and water scarcity. The Colombian Consortium on Carbon Dioxide Removals, which I spearheaded, focuses on scaling up the use of Enhanced Chemical Weathering, an emerging negative emission technology. Additionally, I am proud of co-founding Testlab Laboratories, a tech company in Colombia that provides sustainable solutions for the food, water, and environment sectors. These initiatives integrate academia, industry, governmental agencies, and civil society, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in providing impactful solutions.

What brought you to IE? Where were you before? And what keeps you here?

I was drawn to IE by its ecosystem that integrates high-quality research, business models, and socially impactful entrepreneurship, reminiscent of my experience at EAFIT University in Colombia. Before joining IE, I graduated from a private university in Colombia, where I learned the importance of integrating research with entrepreneurship. The similar environment at IE keeps me motivated and engaged.

What trends are you most excited about in science and technology and why?

I am excited about the potential of all scientific fields to provide sustainable solutions to society. The ability to apply science and technology to drive positive change is what truly excites me about advancements in any field.

Have you ever had an a-ha moment while teaching that furthered your research? What was it?

I experience a-ha moments regularly, but one instance stands out—recognizing the invaluable input of knowledge from ancestral indigenous societies in enhancing the impact of environmental research. Integrating these perspectives is crucial, as neglecting them can render scientific efforts ineffective and may even exacerbate existing problems.

What book do you wish your students would read before taking your class and why?

Cien Años de Soledad (One Hundred Years of Solitude) in its Spanish version. This novel encapsulates rich cultural and historical themes that provide valuable insights into Latin American society, fostering a deeper understanding among students.

Please name one of your articles or studies you feel addresses the pressing issues for 2024?

Middle Closure of the Panama Seaway. In this contribution, a group of Latin American scientists assessed the impact of the closure of the Panama Seaway. The closure of the Panama Seaway played a pivotal role in shaping the modern climate system by altering oceanic circulation patterns and promoting the exchange of heat between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Prior to its closure, which according to our work occurred 15 million years ago, before it was considered to happen around 3 million years, the seaway allowed for the interchange of marine species and influenced regional climates. However, once closed, it led to the establishment of the Gulf Stream and the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, crucial components of the global climate system. These currents regulate heat transport, impacting weather patterns, oceanic productivity, and even influencing phenomena like El Niño. Understanding the consequences of the Panama Seaway closure provides insights into past climate dynamics and aids in predicting future climate changes.

Tell us one personal thing about yourself that none of your students know. A hobby, sport, talent, strange fact, or unusual interest?

As an amateur cyclist, I enjoy riding with my wife and son. In 2025, for my 50th birthday, I plan to embark on a 2000 km bike ride from La Granja de San Ildefonso to Vienna with my family as part of my personal challenges and celebrations.