International Institute for Development and Environmental studies

Rural Development, Food Security, and Commodity Risk management

Don’s work in rural development focuses on improving agricultural productivity and addressing the challenges faced by smallholder farmers, particularly in developing countries. His research explores how agricultural policies, technological advancements, and market-based solutions can contribute to poverty reduction and sustainable growth.

In the area of food security, Don has studied the complexities of food supply chains, the role of storage and trade, and policy interventions needed to ensure stable food access, especially in vulnerable regions.

His work on commodity risk management examines how price volatility affects farmers and economies, and how innovative financial tools—such as futures markets and weather-based insurance—can help mitigate these risks, creating more resilient rural livelihoods.

Carbon Markets and natural resource management

Don’s research delves into the development and effectiveness of carbon markets, particularly mechanisms like the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), in promoting sustainable environmental practices. His work evaluates the economic and policy frameworks that support greenhouse gas emission reductions and explores how these market-based approaches can be integrated with natural resource management strategies to address climate change challenges