Dr. Kalpana Giri is a Senior Manager, Global Restoration Research & Strategy at the World Resources Institute. She advances restoration, forestry, and nature-based economy solutions, leading the global restoration research and strategy portfolios. Her work translates evidence into strategies and program designs that bridge policy, practice, and community impacts.

Prior to her current role, Kalpana combined research-driven innovation with hands-on program design and management. She led major international initiatives on REDD+, FLEGT, landscape restoration, governance and tenure, gender and social equity, and transformative leadership. Her extensive work has spanned partners from regional governments (e.g., ASEAN) and national ministries to UN agencies, research institutes, think tanks, and grassroots organizations.

Trained as a forest engineer, and with extensive training on social sciences, Kalpana holds a transdisciplinary lens to diagnose challenges and creates fit for purpose environmental solutions. She has advised environmental organizations such as IUFRO, IUCN, SEI and ForestAction Nepal, supporting them to enhance structures for inclusive research, policy and practice. She has built cross-cultural teams and driven impact across Asia, Africa, Latin America, US, and Europe.

Kalpana has authored numerous journal articles, book chapters, policy briefs, and conference papers. She lives with her family in the DMV region.