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Kate Marvel Author and Climate Scientist Tuesday Keynote Address |
Senator Whitehouse U.S. Senator Wednesday Keynote Address |
Jeff Gitterman Partner at Gitterman Wealth Management and CEO of Gitterman Asset Management Thursday Keynote Address |
Chris Anthony seeks to connect innovative technologies to the wildfire community to protect lives, communities, ensure resilient landscapes, and end the disastrous impacts of destructive wildfires. He served as the Chief Deputy Director of CAL FIRE, overseeing nearly all aspects of CAL FIRE’s Fire Protection, Resource Management, Support, and Administrative functions.
With 27 years at CAL FIRE, he held roles in fire protection, prevention, law enforcement, and administration, serving on state and federal Incident Management Teams and leading initiatives like the Governor’s Tree Mortality Task Force. He now consults for firetech companies, academia, and nonprofits and serves on the Earth Fire Alliance and California Fire Safe Council boards.
A Registered Professional Forester and retired California Peace Officer, Chris holds a B.S. in Forestry from UC Berkeley and studied Resource Management at UBC. He resides in South Lake Tahoe.
Eric Asche is the President of Potential Energy Coalition, a nonpartisan, nonprofit whose mission is to accelerate the energy transition by driving public demand for solutions. Eric is an Emmy-winning social marketer who has been credited with developing some of the most successful, life-saving public education campaigns in history.
Before joining Potential Energy, Eric served as the chief marketing and strategy officer at Truth Initiative, the organization best known for the anti-smoking Truth campaign whose brand has become ubiquitous in pop culture and was named one of AdAge’s top campaigns of the 21st century. Eric was named a top health influencer by PRWeek and the top CMO for social responsibility by the CMO Club.
Before Truth Initiative, Eric was at GSD&M in Austin, Texas, where he led marketing campaigns for brands like AT&T, Southwest Airlines and Rolling Stone. Prior to that, Eric was part of a business development team at a technology start-up during the dot-com boom, where he led partnership development and fundraising.
Martha joined Alltech, Inc., based out of their Global HQ in Kentucky, USA, in May of 2023.
As Global Director, Carbon Markets, she works closely to shepherd Alltech’s visions, “Working together for a Planet of Plenty”. She has spent her career working with large production dairy operations in the US with a strong background in dairy nutrition and consulting. Alltech’s approach to Sustainability starts with enhanced farm profitability. As we advocate for our environment, it is done with a keen focus on helping operations become more profitable and viable for the long-term. Martha’s current focus is working to identify carbon projects that yield the greatest benefit to Alltech customers utilizing technology that can create verifiable reductions and deliver the greatest value back to the farm gate.
Ezgi Barcenas is the Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer of L’Oréal Groupe and Chief Executive Officer of the Fondation L'Oréal, as well as a member of the Group’s Executive Committee. She is responsible for the Group’s global sustainability strategy, overseeing the L’Oréal for the Future program, which is built around four strategic axes: steward the climate transition, safeguard nature, drive circularity and support communities. Her mission is to future-proof the business by enabling long-term environmental, social and economic sustainability across its value chain.
Moreover, she oversees the L’Oréal Fund for Nature Regeneration, the L'Oréal Fund for Women, and the L’Oréal Climate Emergency Fund, which were created to build resilience and empower communities through innovation and local action. Under her leadership, the Group launched in 2025 a Sustainable Innovation Accelerator program, endowed with 100 million euros over 5 years to further catalyze new breakthrough technologies in support of its sustainability transformation.
Prior to joining L'Oréal, Barcenas served as the Chief Sustainability Officer at AB InBev. Her leadership and commitment to sustainability have earned her numerous accolades, including being named to TIME magazine's TIME100 Climate list and receiving the Sustainability Trailblazer award from Reuters Responsible Business in 2022.
Barcenas holds a Bachelor's Degree in Biomedical and Electrical Engineering from Vanderbilt University, a Master's Degree in Environmental Health from the Harvard School of Public Health, and an MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business. She is a dual citizen of Cyprus and the USA.
As the Senior Director of Climate and Community Science at the National Audubon Society, Dr. Brooke Bateman leads Audubon's climate science and community science areas of focus.
Leading Audubon's climate science, she collaborates with scientists, volunteers, and Audubon’s Climate Initiative team to develop research focused on climate and the conservation of birds and the places they need today and in the future. In this role she led a team of scientists in developing Survival by Degrees: 389 Bird Species on the Brink, Audubon's 2019 Birds and Climate Change Report. She also led a team of scientists in developing Audubon's Natural Climate Solutions Report- Maintaining and restoring natural habitats to mitigate climate change, a report which provides a scientific framework to address both the biodiversity and climate crises through harnessing the natural power of our ecosystems to store carbon and provide co-benefits for birds. More recently, she was lead author for Audubon’s Report, Birds and Transmission: Building the Grid Birds Need, which lays out why we need to rapidly upgrade the U.S. transmission grid while emphasizing the need for responsible siting and operation for birds.
Brooke leads Audubon's national community science programs, including the longest running community science program on birds globally, the Christmas Bird Count (CBC), a program that provides vital conservation data on birds while also serving as a fun family tradition. Brooke has also served as science lead for Climate Watch since 2016, where she works with community volunteers to understand how climate change currently affects birds in North America. She also coordinates Audubon's engagement on The Great Backyard Bird Count, a global program for all who love birds in collaboration with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Birds Canada.
Xavier leads Takeda’s Global Distribution & Logistics. He is based in Zurich, Switzerland.
He has nearly 30 years of work experience in finance, quality, procurement and supply chain in pharma and food services of which he is 22 years with Takeda.
Xavier holds an MBA and a master's degree in food science and manufacturing.
He is passionate about sailing and rugby. He is a shareholder of “Team for the Planet”. A non-profit organization financing innovations for climate emergency..
Barbara Belvisi is an entrepreneur passionate about space, hardware, biology and AI. She started her career as an investor, from Private Equity to Venture Capital. She founded her own asset management firm at 27 to invest in deeptech startups and then cofounded Hardware Club at 29 a VC fund dedicated to hardware and robotics companies. Meanwhile she participated in the launch of several innovation programs like Hello Tomorrow the largest deeptech event in Europe.
At 33, she left her investor career and started learning engineering and architecture. Drove by her childhood passion for nature and space, she spent a year with NASA engineers prior to launching Interstellar Lab. Its mission: preserve life on Earth and expand it in space.
Interstellar Lab develops, manufactures and operates biopharming platform combining hardware, AI and bioscience on Earth and in Space. On Earth, they provide an integrated solution to cosmetics and f&b companies for clean production of plant-based ingredients. In space, they provide food production and plant research capabilities to space stations. As a first step towards their multi-planetary vision, NASA has selected their technology for food production in long manned mission. Interstellar Lab also has launched a lunar mission in partnership with The Antoine de Saint Exupéry Youth to grow roses on the moon.
Barbara is Top 10 Women in Tech in France, Top 100 Forbes, Best Innovator 2022, Choiseul 100, BOLD Award 2023.
As President & CEO, Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser leads TPL’s mission to connect everyone to the benefits and joys of the outdoors.
Since joining TPL, Carrie has championed the expansion of equitable access to nature, especially in underserved neighborhoods where schoolyards serve as vital hubs for health, learning, and climate resilience. Under her leadership, TPL continues transforming community schoolyards into climate-resilient green spaces and reimaging them as shared public spaces that help communities adapt to climate challenges, reduce urban heat, and foster environmental justice.
Carrie has also served as President and CEO of Colorado Mountain College, where she spearheaded groundbreaking efforts in equity, outdoor education, and student housing.
She has earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona, her master’s and Ph.D. from UCLA, and completed the Advanced Management Program at the Wharton School of Business. A lifelong outdoor advocate, Carrie has climbed major peaks around the world and believes deeply in the power of nature to heal, connect, and protect communities.
Jeff Bladen serves as Head of Energy at Verrus, bringing over 25 years of experience shaping the energy grid. Previously, he was Meta’s Global Director of Energy, leading teams that developed and executed energy strategy across its global data center fleet.
Earlier, Jeff held executive roles at the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), driving market and technology strategies, and leadership positions at PJM Interconnection, Constellation Energy, DNV GL Energy, and Gamesa.
He holds an MBA with honors from NYU’s Stern School of Business and a BA from Syracuse University’s Maxwell School.
Suriya A. Blair serves as the Student Representative of the Urban Assembly (UA) School for Leadership and Empowerment in Brooklyn, NY.
A passionate advocate for students' voices and equity, Suriya has been instrumental in helping her school design a community schoolyard that reflects student voices and neighborhood needs. Through her leadership, Suriya advocates for inclusive, sustainable spaces that foster learning, play, and community connection. Her work continues to inspire her peers to take active roles in transforming their environments.
Dr. Madhur Boloor manages the Carbon Neutral Strategy team in the Energy & Materials division at the Toyota Research Institute (TRI), where he works at the intersection between energy technology, policy, society, and business development. This team uses energy systems modeling to advise strategic decisions for Toyota, spanning global decarbonization topics, including hydrogen, electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, clean transport access and workforce, battery supply chain resilience, material circularity, and more. Through rigorous research done in-house and with university and national lab partners, the team helps navigate the dynamic clean energy and transportation transition.
A materials scientist and engineer by training, Dr. Boloor's Ph.D. focused on sustainable energy research, and he has worked on thin-film solar cells, grid-scale batteries, and solid-state electrolyzers for clean hydrogen production. Upon graduating from Stanford, Dr. Boloor spent the next few years exploring the energy ecosystem through a series of energy policy fellowships at the California Energy Commission (CEC), the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), and the Vehicle Technologies Office at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Madhur then moved to Germany to join Kia Europe, where he developed EV charging and battery strategy.
Jesper Brodin is the CEO of Ingka Group. His career with IKEA spans over 20 years, and he stepped into his current role in September 2017. Before being appointed CEO, Jesper was Managing Director at IKEA of Sweden/Range & Supply, which is responsible for the development of the product range and supply chain of the IKEA Brand.
Jesper’s career at IKEA started in 1995 with a purchase manager role in Pakistan; not long after that he became Regional Purchase Manager for South East Asia. In 1999, he took on the assignment of assistant, both to IKEA founder Ingvar Kamprad and to Anders Dahlvig, who was CEO at that time.
As a leader, Jesper is known for his belief in values-based leadership and for his emphasis on togetherness, saying: “The power is where the people are. Believe in yourself and your strengths, but don’t forget to rely on other people’s strengths, too. Because we’re truly stronger together.” Jesper’s vision for Ingka Group spotlights sustainable development. He is a member of the World Economic Forum, advocating for wider climate commitments across the global retail sector.
Jesper was born in Gothenburg, Sweden, and holds a Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering from Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden. Married with three children, he fills his spare time with sailing and music: “To play the guitar is my yoga. I do it every day.”
Kristin Carvell is Chief Communications Officer of GE Vernova and the President of the GE Vernova Foundation. In this role, she leads global communications and brand marketing.
Kristin has more than 20 years of communications leadership and executive counsel experience spanning global communications agencies, technology companies, government, and political campaigns. She joined GE in 2016, leading internal and external communications across GE Gas Power systems.
Prior to GE, Kristin was head of business and product communications at Uber Technologies where she developed global strategies and partnerships. For six years, Kristin served as a senior corporate communications leader for Cisco Systems managing global crises, mergers and acquisitions and legal communications. At Cisco, she developed and led communications for the company’s global Internet of Everything brand initiative.
Kristin began her career in key political leadership roles for nearly a decade, serving as a senior communications leader in the U.S. Senate, the Office of the Governor in two states, and a Presidential campaign. Kristin earned a Bachelor of Arts from the Grady School of Journalism at The University of Georgia.
Heather Clancy is an award-winning journalist specializing in transformative technology and innovation. She started her reporting career on the business news desk of United Press International, and her articles have appeared in Entrepreneur, Fortune, The International Herald Tribune and The New York Times.
Clancy was the launch editor for the Fortune Data Sheet, a newsletter dedicated to the business of technology. She co-authored the Amazon best-seller for entrepreneurs, Niche Down, How to Become Legendary By Being Different.
In her role at Trellis, Heather chronicles the role of business model innovation and technology in transitioning to a clean, inclusive and regenerative economy. She serves on the boards of the WSLA Alumnae Group, a mentorship organization that nurtures feminine leadership in the corporate sustainability movement, and EcoAthletes, a collective of collegiate, professional and amateur athletes that advocate for solutions to climate change.
Team Francesca Clapcich Powered by 11th Hour Racing was launched in early 2025 with a dual ambition: to see Francesca on the startline of the 2028 Vendée Globe (racing solo, non-stop around the world in a 60-foot foiling sailboat) and to create positive impact in competitive sport. Their Believe, Belong, Achieve initiative, developed in partnership with 11th Hour Racing, promotes equity and belonging in sailing through education, advocacy, and collective action - from grassroots programs to elite competition.
Kip Cleverley, Chief Sustainability Officer & Chief Communications Officer at Synagro Technologies, Inc., has more than 30 years of progressive experience taking corporate sustainability programs from their infancy to award-winning performance. Kip specializes in collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to deliver tangible business results and then effectively communicating and marketing those achievements for brand recognition. Prior to Synagro, he led sustainability to global leadership levels at International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (IFF) and Benjamin Moore Paints.
An accomplished speaker and professor lecturer on the future of sustainability, Kip holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, as well as a Master of Science degree in Environmental Systems Science and a “Green” Master of Business Administration in sustainable business development. He is a transformational change leader and has worked with organizations to advance the global sustainability agenda, including being an operating member of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, World Economic Forum, Natural Resources Stewardship Circle, CDP Global, Paint Care and Together for Sustainability.
Kip is an avid outdoorsman and father of two, who can explain the complex world of sustainable development and its role in society, in layman’s terms.
Erica Cocilova is the CEO of Ethique Beauty, she joined in 2023 after being inspired by the brand’s unwavering commitment to disrupting the industry through no-compromise beauty solutions. Under her leadership, Ethique Beauty empowers consumers by offering clinically-proven, incredibly clean, and truly ethical products, debunking the myth that a sustainable product can’t be a superior one. She was previously Chief Marketing Officer at Briogeo Haircare, VP of Marketing & eCommerce at Happy Family Organics, and in brand management at Dove (Unilever).
Amaël Cohades, CEO, is an EPFL Ph.D. with 18 publications. He served as a consultant for JEC Group, the leading international composites network.
The experience provided him a large network of industry leaders in the field, bringing benefits for product validation, industrialization, and implementation.
Yashi Dadhich is the Director of Energy and Sustainability at the Javits Center, the busiest convention center in the United States. As a result-oriented ambitious sustainability professional, Ms. Dadhich leads the iconic venue’s award-winning sustainability program, which includes the largest green roof in New York State, a unique wildlife habitat, a one-acre working farm and one of the region’s leading energy conservation initiatives. Ms. Dadhich’s goal is to align creative and innovative sustainable business strategies into organizations to reduce their impacts on our planet and our communities.
Since 2016, she has been working as an independent consultant with a variety of high-profile clients, including several Fortune 100 companies. Before joining the Javits Center, Ms. Dadhich was working with Hyperloop Transportation Technologies as their Sustainability Lead, where she collaborated with multiple departments to embed ESG initiatives at the corporate level and oversee calculations of impacts from the construction of this futuristic technology to help them identify the low impact materials and methodologies.
Ms. Dadhich participated in revising the guidelines for conducting Social Life Cycle Assessment for Products and Organizations at UNEP, Paris. The guidelines were published by UNEP in December 2020, and Ms. Dadhich was a contributing author for the document.
Ms. Dadhich holds a graduate degree in Sustainability and a certificate in Corporate Sustainability and Innovation from Harvard University.
David Dardis serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Legal and Policy Officer at Constellation and is a veteran energy industry lawyer with more than two decades of experience representing utilities, electric generation companies, and power and gas marketers, and serving in the federal government.
He manages all legal, government and regulatory affairs for Constellation as well as the corporate governance and corporate compliance functions. He serves on the Constellation Executive Committee, which sets strategy and direction for the company.
He holds a BA in Politics from Pomona College and a JD from Washington and Lee University School of Law.
Christopher Davidson is based in Richmond, Virginia, and serves as vice president, Sustainability Engagement for Smurfit Westrock, a global manufacturer of sustainable paperbased packaging solutions. He is responsible for leading and developing external sustainability partnerships and initiatives, leading internal engagement on sustainability, and develops strategy, policies, goals and metrics for the company’s sustainability platform.
His work with customers and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) around the world focuses on optimizing the impact of sustainability within businesses and communities.
Chris’ experience in the forest products industry spans nearly 30 years. He serves on the board of directors for GreenBlue and the Virginia Chapter of The Nature Conservancy. Chris earned
bachelor’s and master’s degrees in forest management and forestry from North Carolina State University and received a doctorate in forestry from Virginia Tech.
Tony Davis is CEO and CIO of Inherent Group, an investment management firm focused on the equity and credit markets. The firm uses environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors to source and underwrite core investments. Through its engagement with companies, the firm aims to inspire investors and managers to incorporate sustainability into their decisions and to encourage business more broadly to address environmental and social challenges. Inherent manages in excess of $1 billion in public and private investments.
Nicole DelSasso is a Director at Guidehouse Labs, where she leads a global innovation team focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. With over a decade of experience, she has a proven track record of developing strategies and programs that tackle challenging carbon reduction problems.
Currently, she spearheads the Supplier Leadership on Climate Transition (Supplier LOCT), an initiative that helps over 2,000 suppliers reduce emissions for 30 global consumer brands. Her leadership was key to operationalizing this successful program.
Before joining Guidehouse, Nicole led on-farm initiatives for the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, helping thousands of dairy farmers reduce energy use and emissions. She holds an MBA from DePaul University and a Bachelor of Arts from The Ohio State University. Nicole is a certified project manager known for her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to producing tangible outcomes.
-Enters his 26th season with the Mets organization…Currently is the Executive Director, Facility and Sustainability Strategies…Oversees implement tools and strategies to improve the sustainability of Citi Field, ensuring the building meets requirements and safety standards and all NYC DOB local laws, manages cleaning & waste management programs, maintenance contracts and certifying that Citi Field is compliant with all ADA standards.
-Began his Mets career as an Operations Coordinator in 2000 and has spent his career in Stadium Management and Ballpark Operations before rising to his current position.
-Selected to be on the Advisory Council for the WELL Health-Safety Rating for Facility Operations and Management, an evidence-based, third-party verified rating focusing on operational policies, cleaning protocols and design strategies to address a post COVID-19 environment.
-Is a member of the Green Sports Alliance, Stadium Managers Association (SMA), and a member of the SMA’s Facility Operations Committee.
-Graduated from Baruch College with degree in Operations Management...Completed a Facility Management certificate from NYU.
Jennifer Duran is Kenvue’s Global Head of Sustainability with oversight of the consumer health company’s Healthy Lives Mission. Over the course of her career, Jennifer Duran has worked to transform complex, global issues into opportunities to have a positive impact on people and the planet. Prior to this role, she served as Kenvue’s Head of Product Resiliency and Sustainability helping inspire a global organization to design resilient products with lower impacts that consumer love. Jennifer also serves on the Board of Directors at Change Chemistry.
Jennifer specializes in product sustainability and has led teams responsible for green chemistry, ingredient stewardship and resiliency, responsible sourcing as well as value chain impacts. She has cultivated robust external relationships with retailers, NGOs, consultancies, academics and trade associations. She has several patents and publications, a postgraduate degree in Sustainability Leadership from Cambridge University, and a Master of Science in Chemistry from Carnegie Mellon University where she studied at the Institute for Green Science.
She is also a proud mother of two girls, an ardent supporter of STEM and a Bar Method enthusiast.
Jackson Ewing, Ph.D. is Director of Energy and Climate policy at the Duke University Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability. His current work focuses on sustainably meeting load growth challenges, international climate and energy transition finance, environmental markets, and US-China climate and energy relations.
Dr. Ewing leads educational exchanges between Asia and the United States through a leadership role with Duke Kunshan University in greater Shanghai. He has worked in more than twenty countries, and collaborates closely with actors in government, the private sector, civil society, and international organizations.
Michael is an automotive engineer turned impact entrepreneur in sustainable mobility. After graduating from an MBA in Entrepreneurship in France, he began his career designing low-emission vehicles for Stellantis. In 2014, he co-founded DRUST, a connected-car data platform, raising $10M before selling the technology to Continental, a leading German automotive supplier. In 2019, he joined a SoftBank-backed start-up as its first employee, building strategic partnerships in autonomous mobility. In 2022, he co-founded VELA, a next-generation shipping company operating zero-carbon, wind-powered cargo vessels between Europe and the U.S., where he now leads finance and international expansion as Managing Director and Chair.
Chief Fetterman serves as Division Chief at the Orange County Fire Authority, overseeing fire services for multiple cities and leading the All-Hazard Incident Management Program. With over 29 years of experience in various fire service roles and specialties, he is an Incident Commander and Plans Section Chief with extensive fire and disaster response experience, including major events like the Dixie and Woolsey Fires, Surfside building collapse, and multiple hurricanes.
He has engaged in international collaboration, testified before legislative committees, and contributed to several fire and emergency technology councils. He was recently a unified Incident Commander for the Airport Fire in Orange County.
Esther Finidori is the Chief Sustainability Officer of Schneider Electric.
She leads the company’s sustainability strategy, commitments, and engagements, from corporate citizenship and institutional affairs to sustainability performance and environmental impact.
Previously at Schneider Electric, she held the position of France Operations Strategy VP, where she drove influence, commercial strategy, sales excellence, and circular economy initiatives. She also served in various sustainability roles, including Group Environment VP, where she played an instrumental role in shaping and executing the company’s environmental initiatives, solidifying its position as a recognized sustainability leader.
Before joining Schneider Electric in 2016, she worked as an environmental consultant, specializing in climate change and energy transition. She holds a Master of Science in Engineering from Ecole Centrale Paris and a Master of Philosophy in Technology Policy from the Judge Business School of Cambridge University.
Jonathan Foley, Ph.D., is the executive director of Project Drawdown, the world's leading guide for science-based climate solutions. He is a world-renowned environmental scientist, sustainability expert, author, and public speaker whose work focuses on understanding our changing planet and increasing the adoption of the most promising solutions to sustain the climate, ecosystems, and natural resources we all depend on.
Dr. Heather Fowler serves as Director of Producer and Public Health for the National Pork Board, where she leads education and research on public health and worker safety in the swine industry. A champion of the "One Health" framework, she previously worked on multidisciplinary teams to address topics like antimicrobial resistance. Dr. Fowler holds a veterinary degree from the University of Pennsylvania, a master's in public health from Yale, and a Ph.D. from the University of Washington. She is board-certified in veterinary preventive medicine and certified in project management, known for her expertise in occupational hazards.
Cassandra serves as Chief Sustainability Officer for General Motors, a role in direct service of the company’s vision of a world with zero crashes, zero emissions and zero congestion. She and her team oversee the development and execution of GM's global sustainability strategy, driving the company's commitment to environmental responsibility, social impact, and ethical business practices. Prior to GM, she served as Chief Sustainability Officer for Dell Technologies,
Peter Garbutt is the Global Sustainability Director, Nature and Climate at McDonald's. In this role, he focuses on the company's strategy to reduce deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions.
Before his current position, he was promoted to a global sustainability role with a focus on European responsibilities. He previously held the position of UK and Ireland Agricultural Manager for McDonald's, where he was responsible for sourcing food from approximately 23,000 farmers.
Prior to joining McDonald's, he worked for the National Farmers' Union for six and a half years, where he led on livestock policy issues.
Nadia Gill is an award-winning filmmaker and co-founder of Encompass Films, known for crafting visually rich, socially resonant documentaries that explore the environment, American identity, and ideological complexity. Her work has been featured by Netflix, the Los Angeles Times, and the Redford Center, and supported by brands such as Red Bull, Black Diamond, and REI.
Nadia co-directed Planetwalker, a critically acclaimed documentary shortlisted for the Academy Awards, and is currently directing Messengers, a feature that follows conservative climate activists navigating partisan fault lines to advocate for environmental action.
A former attorney and native Angeleno, she now lives in Lake Tahoe, where she runs the Bristlecone Film Collective, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering a local film culture in the Sierra Nevada.
Senator Martin Heinrich has been a member of the U.S. Senate since 2012, representing New Mexico and serving on the Energy and Natural Resources, Appropriations, Intelligence, and Joint Economic Committees. Before the Senate, he served two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives.
A lifelong conservationist, Heinrich began his public service as an AmeriCorps environmental educator. He led the Cottonwood Gulch Foundation and the Coalition for New Mexico Wilderness—experiences that continue informing his commitment to outdoor access, equity, and environmental stewardship.
In the Senate, Heinrich has been instrumental in major conservation victories, including the Great American Outdoors Act. He is a national leader in transforming schoolyards into lush green spaces—particularly in underserved communities. He has worked with local communities to protect iconic New Mexico landscapes, expand public access, and establish national monuments.
At the heart of Heinrich’s work is a belief that everyone deserves access to nature and that protecting the environment is a moral duty and a path to a stronger, more equitable future.
With more than thirty years in brand management and innovation, Virginie has broad experience across multiple categories, which has built her skills in global to local brand management. She has worked on several of P&G’s high-profile brands, including Pantene, Ariel/Tide, and Pampers. Virginie has extensive international experience, having been based in France, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and the United States.
Today, Virginie serves as P&G’s Chief Sustainability Officer, where her mission is to develop the company’s strategies and goals on sustainability and operationalize them across businesses and regions.
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Shaun Hoyte is a scholar-practitioner with nearly two decades of experience bridging industry and academia to advance sustainability. At Con Edison, he has administered over $250 million in energy efficiency and clean heat program incentives and leads the development of innovative market strategies to reduce carbon emissions and advance an equitable clean energy transition.
Shaun holds degrees from Manhattan College and Columbia University, where he serves as an adjunct professor in the Sustainability Management and Sports Management programs. In recognition of his leadership in the field, Shaun has been recognized as a 2025 City & State Trailblazer in Clean Energy.
In his role as President & CEO of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America (MHIA), he leads the North American team to deliver innovative and integrated solutions that help realize carbon neutrality, improve quality of life, and ensure a safer world. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, he has expertise in both industrial and mining assets, and investment in startup technology companies. Most importantly, he is passionate about advancing the energy transition and achieving MHI’s goal to achieve net zero emissions through our entire value chain by 2040. He is a graduate of Waseda University in Tokyo and has an MBA from Harvard Business School.
Adam is Vice President of Business Development for L’Oréal Research & Innovation in North America. He has a strong background in building partnerships among entrepreneurs, startups, investors, executives, researchers and engineers to advance new technologies in the market.
Since joining L’Oréal in 2014, Adam has led efforts to identify and establish collaborations with startups and develop business models for global technology partnerships. He oversees business development and alliance management with key partners on a variety of strategic projects.
His expertise includes synthetic biology, digital health, regenerative beauty, anti-aging, longevity, the microbiome, wearables and personalized cosmetics. Working with L’Oréal’s Open Innovation team, he supports licensing, acquisitions and equity investments in emerging technologies. He also serves as a board observer for L’Oréal’s strategic partnership with Debut Bio.
Before joining L’Oréal, Adam worked as a life sciences attorney, co-founded a technology startup and managed technology transfer initiatives focused on commercializing innovative research. He holds a juris doctor from Harvard Law School and a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Jeremy Jones is the founder and President of Protect Our Winters. Jeremy has been a professional snowboarder for 30 years and is widely regarded as one of the best big mountain snowboarders in the world. Ten times voted “Big Mountain Rider of the Year” by Snowboarder Magazine, he has starred in over twenty snowboard films worldwide. In 2013, Jeremy was nominated by National Geographic as an “Adventurer Of The Year” and a “Champion Of Change” by President Obama for his work fighting climate change with Protect Our Winters. Most recently, Jeremy Jones released Purple Mountains, a film seeking to find common ground in the fight against climate change.
Anne leads the Ceres Policy Network, Business for Innovative Climate and Energy Policy (BICEP). BICEP is a coalition of 89 leading companies advocating for meaningful climate and energy policy at the state and federal levels. Anne is a registered lobbyist and is actively engaged on Capitol Hill on behalf of Ceres and BICEP member companies.
Anne is an environmental lawyer with twenty-five years of public and private sector experience. In the 1990s, she directed the Massachusetts Environmental Strike Force—a team of legal and engineering professionals charged with bringing high-profile civil and criminal actions through the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General.
Anne has taught environmental law courses at Boston College Law School, Suffolk University, and Tufts University. In addition to her law degree, Anne holds a master's in public administration from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government and is a fellow in the American College of Environmental Lawyers (ACOEL).
Kurt Kelty serves at GM’s Vice President of Battery, Propulsion, and Sustainability. Appointed to his role in February 2024, Kelty leads GM’s comprehensive battery technology strategy and lifecycle approach, encompassing raw material sourcing, research and development (R&D), battery cell and pack commercialization, and sustainability initiatives including end-of-life solutions.
Kelty is a globally recognized battery expert with more than 30 years of experience in energy storage technology spanning multiple sectors, from consumer electronics to electric vehicles. This includes work experience across the battery value chain as a material supplier, cell-maker, and end-user.
Kelty began his career in lithium-ion batteries in 1993 with Panasonic, where he created joint development programs to advance rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for portable applications. While at Panasonic, he founded and led its battery research lab in Silicon Valley and established R&D alliances between Panasonic and other U.S. battery and fuel cell developers.
Kelty subsequently joined Tesla in 2006 where he led the company’s battery cell development team for 11 years. At Tesla, he was responsible for technical exchanges and commercial negotiations with battery cell suppliers and early-stage battery cell developers. Kelty was instrumental in the creation of Tesla’s first Gigafactory, the largest lithium-ion battery and EV component factory in the world.
Most recently, as vice president at Sila, Kelty led the commercialization of advanced silicon anode materials, focusing on high-energy density and fast-charging applications for electric vehicles.
Kelty is a graduate of Swarthmore College with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a graduate of Stanford University, where he earned his Master of Science through Stanford Business School’s Sloan Program. Kelty is the author of 16 patents in the U.S. and Japan.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Kelty has served as a Board Member for Auto Motive Power (acquired by Ford) and as an Advisory Board Member for BP and other energy-focused organizations.
Ana Kljuic is vice president of L’Oréal Research & Innovation’s L’Oréal for the Future and Green Sciences. She leads global efforts to embed
sustainability into research and innovation, guiding the development of high-performance formulations inspired by nature and respectful of planetary limits.
Since joining L’Oréal in 2004, Kljuic has worked across all divisions, advancing initiatives in
natural and organic products, inclusive innovation, and emerging markets. In 2020, she created the R&I Emerging Markets Hub to strengthen consumer insights in India, South Africa, and Brazil. She was named to her current role in 2022.
Kljuic earned a doctorate in genetics and dermatology from Columbia University, where she also completed postdoctoral training. Earlier in her career, she published extensively on inherited skin and hair diseases and is the author of several cosmetic formulation patents.
Greg Lettieri is the CEO and co-founder of Recycle Track Systems (RTS), where he has redefined materials management through technology that leverages AI and machine learning to drive efficiency, transparency, and environmental responsibility. Under his leadership, RTS is disrupting a historically stagnant industry by giving businesses and communities real-time data and insights to reduce waste, increase diversion, and right-size service. Customers like the Baltimore Ravens and New York Mets rely on RTS, and its Pello platform is setting the standard for AI-driven waste tracking.
Greg’s work has been recognized by the Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg Businessweek, Forbes, and Crain’s New York Business. He has been named to Waste360’s “40 Under 40,” honored as one of Goldman Sachs’ “100 Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs,” and recognized as Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur Of The Year. Beyond his work in sustainability, he also produced two musical soundtracks for NBC’s Peter Pan Live! and The Wiz Live!, a reflection of his creative range and entrepreneurial spirit.
Ms. Leveston brings over 30 years of high-caliber industry experience to the chief executive officer role. Most recently, she was the Senior Vice President of Convention Centers at Oak View Group, where she oversaw strategy and operations for more than 60 convention and conference centers in the OVG360 portfolio. She has worked in convention centers across the country, including holding senior positions at Boston’s Hynes Convention Center, Boston Convention & Exhibitions Center, Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington D.C., Miami Beach Convention Center, George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, and the San Diego Convention Center Corporation.
Additionally, Ms. Leveston has worked on high-profile special events such as fan fests for the Super Bowl, NBA All-Star Weekend and MLB All-Star Weekend; presidential inaugural balls; the Nuclear Security Summit for President Obama; the International AIDS Convention; the White House State of Women Summit; and Art Basel Miami.
In addition to her extensive experience, Ms. Leveston is well known for providing exceptional customer experience and leading with authenticity. Her passion for the hospitality industry has led to strong relationships across the convention center sector and beyond.
She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from UCSD. Ms. Leveston is on the board of governors at IAVM and has industry memberships with IAEE, ASAE, PCMA, IAVM, SISO, MPI, and AIPC.
Laura Libby is a Manager on the Carbon Neutrality team in the Human-Centered AI division at TRI. She is passionate about bringing behavioral science and AI research out of the lab and into the real world to build technologies that are better for people and society.
Prior to TRI, Laura was an Applied Behavioral Data Scientist at Uber, working on rider products, and a Product Data Scientist at Meta, working on messaging and video calling. She holds a B.S. in Human Development from Cornell University and a Ph.D. in Cognitive Neuroscience from the University of California, Davis. Her doctoral work, supported by the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program, used fMRI to study how cortical-hippocampal networks in the human brain support different aspects of memory.
Debbie Lyons-Blythe is a dedicated cattle rancher in central Kansas, nestled in the heart of the Flint Hills. Debbie embraces ranching as a fulfilling way of life that extends beyond mere livelihood. Their operation focuses on producing quality genetics that help other ranchers raise beef. Debbie also served as the 2022/2023 chair of the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (USRSB), Debbie champions the importance of sustainable practices within the beef industry. She emphasizes the need for continuous improvement and innovation, aligning ranching with the evolving demands of consumers and environmental stewardship.
Tony Martens is the co-founder of Plantible, a startup that is redesigning the food production supply chain by combining aquafarming techniques with innovative technologies in order to produce more sustainable, functional and nutritional food ingredients.
Prior to Plantible, Tony was part of the management team that drafted and executed a 5-year strategy that transformed a small and traditional agricultural commodity trading & processing firm into becoming Europe’s largest commodity trading company.
Representative Dave Min was elected in 2024 to represent California’s 47th Congressional District in the heart of Orange County, which includes the cities of Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach and Seal Beach, as well as parts of Laguna Hills and Laguna Woods.
Dave is the child of Korean immigrants and a product of California public schools, who lives in Irvine with his wife Jane and their three children. He previously served as a California State Senator from 2020-2024, where he focused on affordable housing, gun violence prevention, climate action and small business development.
As a State Senator, Dave chaired the Natural Resources and Water Committee and authored more than 30 laws, including many first-in-the-nation bills in the areas of domestic violence (including the first law in the world to recognize reproductive coercion as a form of domestic violence), gun violence prevention (including the first law in the country banning the sale of guns and ammunition on all state property), and environmental protection (including the first law in the United States to codify the 30x30 goals outlined by leading scientists to protect 30% of our open spaces and coastal waters by the year 2030). Dave also was responsible for bringing more than $70 million in direct appropriations to Orange County for local priorities including open space preservation, parks, and wildfire prevention.
Before becoming an elected official, Congressmember Min was a law professor at UC Irvine, where he taught and researched in the area of business law. At that time, he was considered one of the country’s leading experts on banking and housing policy, and testified six times before Congress on these issues.
Dave is a proud alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned degrees in the College of Arts and Sciences (B.A. Philosophy) and the Wharton School of Business (B.S. Economics), and Harvard Law School, where he earned his Juris Doctorate. Dave began his career prosecuting Wall Street fraud at the Securities and Exchange Commission, where he served as an Enforcement Attorney.
Dave’s basic philosophy of governance is one of long-termism, summed up by this quote from the ancient Greeks: A civilization is great when its elders plant trees whose shade they know they will never sit in.
As the Meat institute’s Chief Strategy Officer Eric leads the Protein PACT initiative and the Meat Institute’s framework for continuous improvement to transparently verify progress toward global goals, in alignment with consumers’ values and expectations. Prior to joining the Meat Institute, Eric led the International Food Information Council’s (IFIC) communication and media initiatives. He started his career as a broadcast reporter and producer in major media markets including Atlanta. He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Cornell University and a master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences from Eastern Virginia Medical School.
Naomi Morenzoni is SVP of Climate and Innovation Philanthropy at Salesforce. She leads the company’s philanthropic programs focused on innovation, including the Salesforce AI for Impact Accelerator, which provides funding, technology, and technical support to advance promising AI solutions from idea to widespread adoption. She also oversees the Nature and Sustainability Fund, designed to deploy catalytic capital in support of a transition to a net-zero, nature-positive world.
Naomi is a founder and board member of Pledge 1%, a global movement of over 19,000 companies committed to making community a core stakeholder in business. She serves on the Advisory Board of Uplink, a World Economic Forum platform supporting early-stage entrepreneurs building a sustainable and inclusive global economy. Naomi is also a member of the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Innovative Climate Finance and Co-Chair of the Green Skills Initiative for the Sustainable Business COP30.
Throughout her career, she has worked at the intersection of business and social impact, with previous roles at Google, the Global Philanthropy Forum, and Business for Social Responsibility. Naomi lives in Bend, Oregon and graduated from Vassar College with highest honors.
With close to 20 years of experience in the marketing and advertising industry, working with a host of global brands from Meta to Mack Trucks, Intel to Salesforce, Chris is a firm believer in the power of storytelling to drive positive impacts. Chris specializes in operating at the strategic intersection between brand, culture, technology and sustainability.
Chris is VP of Client Experience at Green Thread, the B2B practice at Horizon Media, and also serves as Director of Strategy & Campaigns at New Zero World, an international NGO created to overcome barriers to climate action through creativity and communications.
Through his work with New Zero World, Chris leads the Earth Public Information Collaborative (EPIC), a media and marketing initiative working to deliver global climate campaigns and affect change at unprecedented speed and scale. He was a contributor to New Zero World’s pioneering communications white paper, A New Era in Climate Communications, is the co-author of the EPIC Blueprint Transforming Climate Narratives through Health & Wellbeing, and leads the PromptZero campaign to drive more sustainable AI use.
Chelsea is responsible for Etsy’s Impact and Sustainability strategy, amplifying the company’s positive impact while achieving its mission to Keep Commerce Human. With a focus on building long-term business resilience, Chelsea works to integrate environmental and social impact throughout the business. Under Chelsea's leadership, Etsy became one of the first companies to include ESG and climate reporting alongside financial reporting in the 10-K. She oversees emissions reductions to meet Etsy’s SBTi validated Net Zero Scope 1, 2, and 3 targets, as well as Etsy’s social innovation, climate, and responsible AI programs. Chelsea holds an MBA in Sustainability from Bard College and an MA in Economics from the New School for Social Research.
Sebastian Munden works at the intersection of industry and public policy as a senior advisor and chair, collaborating across sectors to drive real change. His vision is a vibrant circular economy, increasing prosperity and eliminating waste and pollution through innovation.
With over 30 years in the international consumer products industry, including 5 years as Chief Executive of Unilever UK & Ireland, he is also co-author of the book, Sustainable Advertising - how advertising can support a better future, which was shortlisted for Business Book of the Year 2025.
Current leadership roles include serving as Chair of WRAP, a global circular economy NGO, and as Global Chair of Ad Net Zero, the climate action program for the advertising industry. He has also served on numerous policy and steering groups for organizations like Pack UK, The Food & Drink Federation, and the IGD, where he has focused on shaping practical policies to support a thriving and more sustainable economy.
Leading CET’s rapid growth and expansion of climate solutions during this decisive decade for action. Her leadership in testing Inclusive Utility Investments (IUI) in Massachusetts has successfully demonstrated the feasibility and significant benefits of this financing model for residential decarbonization. She is a career innovator who has consistently brought market-edge ideas from conception to implementation, from the urban sanitation sector in sub-Saharan Africa to the climate sector in the US. Ashley holds an MS in Environmental Engineering and PhD in Energy & Resources from UC Berkeley and resides in Western Massachusetts.
Tyler H. Norris is a James B. Duke Fellow at Duke University’s Nicholas School of the Environment, where his PhD research focuses on bulk electric power systems.
He was previously VP of Development at Cypress Creek Renewables, where he managed a multi-gigawatt project portfolio and hundreds of millions in capital investments.
Prior, he was Director at S&P Global Platts and Special Advisor for tech-to-market at the U.S. Department of Energy. He was invited to testify to the US House Energy & Commerce Committee based on his role as lead author of the Nicholas Institute study Rethinking Load Growth.
Meg O’Hara is an artist and environmentalist whose work focuses on ocean conservation in the polar regions. Her mission is to inspire others to seek adventure in nature, and reflect on their role in preserving it.
As Senior General Manager for Sustainability Management, Yumi Otsuka is leading Toyota’s corporate mission “Producing Happiness for All” and commitment to helping build a sustainable society.
She joined Toyota as one of the first female career-track administrative new recruits. Since then, she has consistently demonstrated leadership in promoting diversity and sustainability at the front line of transformation, including “Diversity Project,” “Mirai (future) Project,” and creation of motorsports business.
She graduated from School of Law, Osaka University (Japan), and earned an MBA degree from Dartmouth College (USA).
Denise Owusu is a Decarbonization Manager at Motive Power and leads the National Public Utilities Council, where she helps utilities reach their climate action goals. Growing up in Saudi Arabia, surrounded by the oil and gas industry, she began her career as a petroleum engineer before pivoting to clean energy. Today, Denise draws on that unique perspective to guide utilities in reducing emissions, advancing clean technologies, and achieving net-zero goals. Denise has a passion for creating a brighter future for the next generation and is committed to bridging traditional energy expertise with innovative solutions for a sustainable tomorrow.
Audrey is a seasoned business leader with more than 20 years of experience building and scaling impact-driven companies. She has launched and grown businesses in SaaS (in digital health across emerging markets), and deep-tech decarbonization. She also advised Fortune 500 corporations on strategy, supply chain, and business transformation during her time at McKinsey and at LVMH, the global luxury leader. Audrey holds dual master’s degrees in business and public administration from HEC Paris and Harvard Kennedy School. She now leads US operations for VELA, a pioneering shipping company revolutionizing transatlantic freight with zero-carbon, wind-powered cargo vessels.
Sandra Phillips is senior vice president, Enterprise Integrity, chief sustainability officer, and chief legal officer at Toyota Motor North America. She oversees Legal, Carbon Neutrality and Regulatory Affairs, Sustainable Development, Corporate Security, Emergency Management, Compliance, Audit, and Toyota de Mexico. Reporting to the TMNA CEO, Phillips leads efforts to embed sustainable practices, advance carbon neutrality and promote circular economy principles. She provides strategic counsel on global mobility transactions, cybersecurity, litigation, IT, and crisis management. A key Toyota Senior Leadership Team member, she helped launch the Driving Possibilities philanthropic initiative.
Dominic oversees Climate Group’s global transport work. Working with the largest corporate fleets in the world through the EV100 initiative, Climate Group supports members’ fleet electrification plans and advocates for ambition from policymakers to decarbonize road transport and accelerate the transition to a net zero economy.
Dominic has worked for a range of business-focused organizations over the last 20 years in the UK, China and Ecuador advising on sustainability and policy pathways to net zero.
Jeremy is a co-founder and the CEO of 11th Hour Racing and Ocean Hour Farm. Working across both organizations, Jeremy seeks to underscore the intersection of ocean and land, and us humans, who are in the middle, and how we can push each other to find better solutions for the sea and the soil.
Dr. Gill Pratt is the Chief Executive Officer of Toyota Research Institute (TRI), where he directs research to create new capabilities for Toyota in Active Safety, Automated Driving, Robotics, and other Human Amplification technologies. He also serves in a global role guiding Toyota’s research strategy as Chief Scientist and Executive Fellow for Research of Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) and Executive Advisor of Toyota Central R&D Labs., Inc. (TCRDL), both in Japan. Prior to joining TRI as its founding CEO in January 2016, Dr. Pratt served as an Executive Technical Advisor to Toyota Motor Corporation.
Dr. Pratt previously led the Robotics Challenge, Robotics Research, and Neuromorphic Computing research programs for the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), where he served as a program manager in the Defense Sciences and Tactical Technology Offices from January 2010 through August 2015.
Dr. Pratt was an Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and Director of the Leg Lab at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Subsequently, he was a founding Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Associate Dean of Faculty Affairs and Research at Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering. Dr. Pratt’s academic research focused on robotics and intelligent systems. Specific areas of interest included interfaces that significantly enhance human/machine collaboration, mechanisms and control methods for enhanced mobility and manipulation, low impedance actuators, the application of neuroscience techniques to robot perception and control, and the impact of Robotics and AI on society. Dr. Pratt holds several patents in series elastic actuation and adaptive control.
Dr. Pratt earned Doctor of Philosophy (1990), Master of Science (1987), and Bachelor of Science (1983) degrees in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from MIT. His Ph.D. thesis was in the field of spiking computation in natural and artificial neural systems. Dr. Pratt also worked for the Physics and Computer Science Research Departments of Bell Telephone Laboratories in Murray Hill, New Jersey.
Tony Rey is a Superyacht and Grand Prix Director of North Sails, a multiple world and national champion, coach and race team leader with over 30 years of professional results on the podium in racing yachts from 20 to 200+ feet.
Jamie Richards is Director of ESG at Bansk Beauty, where she leads integrated sustainability initiatives across business operations and value chains. She began her career with amika and Eva NYC haircare, where she shaped their early sustainability strategies. With expertise in legal applications of ESG, sustainability metrics, and the intersection of business, government, and academia, Jamie works to advance practical, measurable solutions that drive systemic change. Her leadership has contributed to setting new standards for sustainable practices in the beauty sector, helping to move the industry towards more responsible action.
Joanne Rodriguez is the Founder & CEO of Mycocycle, Inc., which uses mushrooms to remove toxins from waste. Recognized for her innovation by Forbes Magazine, FastCompany, and the EPA she is shifting the paradigm on how we view waste: as a reusable resource, not a burden.
Prior to founding Mycocycle, Joanne headed an environmental consulting firm (GreenStructure) and continues to be recognized as a sustainability leader in the construction products manufacturing industry. She is a specialist in technologies like circular economy, biomimicry, and green chemistry.
Kenneth Sanchez manages facility operations at Javits Center, a 3.4 million square-foot property operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. With more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Mr. Sanchez oversees all construction projects aimed at maintaining and improving the building’s operations, including daily engineering activities, sustainability initiatives, and customer-facing equipment.
Prior to joining New York Convention Center Operating Corporation, Mr. Sanchez served as Director of Engineering and Sustainability Champion, as well as Owner Representative in Project Management for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. He has also held leadership roles as Director of Operations and Facilities Management for SMG-Worldwide Entertainment & Convention Venue Management, and Director of Engineering for Wyndham Worldwide.
Mr. Sanchez holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Turabo in Caguas, Puerto Rico, and a Master’s degree in Hospitality Management from Cornell University.
Yiselle Santos Rivera is an architect, educator, and organizational strategist with over 20 years of experience advancing climate-ready design and resilient communities. As AIA’s 2026 President-Elect and 2027 President, she represents more than 100,000 architects across the United States and around the world, championing policies and practices that align the built environment with a sustainable, equitable future.
Santos Rivera is Founder & CEO of YSR, LLC and teaches architecture at Howard University, where she is shaping the next generation of architects to confront climate change through innovation, cultural responsiveness, and systems thinking. She previously served as Global Director of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at HKS, embedding environmental and social responsibility into projects across 26 offices worldwide.
Born and raised in Puerto Rico, she brings a global perspective and a people-first vision to architecture. Her leadership demonstrates how architects—through design excellence, public policy, and community partnership—are vital to securing a healthier, more resilient planet.
Leah Seligmann is a seasoned sustainability leader who has spent her career working with CEOs and global leaders to catalyze a just, sustainable future. Leah currently serves as Chief Change Catalyst & CEO of The B Team. With nearly a decade of dedicated service to the organization, Leah has been instrumental in shaping and supporting The B Team's agenda, working closely with B Team Leaders to amplify their impact on the global stage. Leah began her journey with The B Team by leading the collective's work on climate and just transition.
Leah's belief that business can play a pivotal role in unlocking sustainability was honed during her tenure as the Chief Sustainability Officer for NRG Energy, a Fortune 200 energy company. Under her leadership, NRG was the first power producer to set a science based target and was featured on NASDAQ Global Sustainability Index's top 100 companies. Prior to NRG, Leah was a consultant at Blu Skye Consulting, advising major companies such as Alcoa, Walmart, Staples and Microsoft on how to integrate sustainability into their business strategies. Her experience spans various industries and initiatives including energy, agriculture, carbon management, supply chain transparency, employee engagement, merchandising and retail. Leah lives in Northern California and is happiest on a river or when she is spending time in nature with her husband and two boys.
Bio coming soon.
Mike Silvestrini is a seasoned renewable energy professional with a longstanding commitment to environmental sustainability. He has played a central role in developing over 500 solar projects across the United States, Brazil, and Africa—contributing meaningfully to the global transition to clean energy.
Prior to Energea, Mike co-founded and served as CEO of Greenskies Renewable Energy LLC. What began with a desk in a basement and a $25,000 check grew into one of the country’s largest commercial and industrial solar firms before his exit in 2016.
As Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Energea, Mike draws on his deep industry experience to expand access to renewable energy investments worldwide. His proven leadership and focus on sustainable infrastructure position him as a key voice in the fight against climate change.
Vaishali Nigam Sinha is Co-founder of ReNew, a leading decarbonisationsolutions company listed on NASDAQ. As Chairperson Sustainability, Vaishali has played a pivotal role in establishing ReNew as a global leader in ESG, driving the Net-Zero agenda, and executing result-oriented ESG strategies that have earned top global rankings.
Vaishali is the Founding Chair of the ReNew Foundation, spearheading the ReNew India Initiative to drive groundbreaking corporate social responsibility efforts. Her initiatives have reached the remotest areas of India, impacting nearly 1.5 million lives and addressing the country’s most urgent challenges through innovative solutions aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Åsa Skogström Feldt is the Managing Director of IKEA Social Entrepreneurship BV (ISEBV), bringing extensive experience from both corporate and non-governmental organisational (NGO) sectors. Åsa is a passionate advocate for women's empowerment, evidenced by her various board memberships, the founding of women's organisations, participation in exchange initiatives, grassroots activism worldwide, and in her everyday life. In 2012, Åsa was instrumental in introducing social entrepreneurship at IKEA and integrating social businesses as partners.
Åsa's distinguished career spans many sectors and geographies. She has served as the Global President and CEO of The Hunger Project in New York and as the CEO of its Swedish branch. Her corporate roles include Head of Marketing at Sony Ericsson in Germany, Marketing Communications Manager for Ericsson Mobile Communications in the Middle East and Africa, and Corporate Communications Director at Aspiro.
Bio coming soon.
Ethan Sohn is a principal on the Toyota Ventures Climate Fund investment team, responsible for sourcing startups, evaluating opportunities, and negotiating and closing investments.
Prior to joining Toyota Ventures, Ethan worked in the global energy, power and utilities investment banking group at TD Securities, advising on mergers and acquisitions transactions for power and renewable companies, regulated utilities, and financial investors.
Prior to TD, Ethan worked at Siemens Financial Services, where he was responsible for underwriting and portfolio management of project finance investments across power and renewable assets. Ethan began his career as a power markets consultant at Siemens Energy Business Advisory (formerly known as Pace Global).
He received a bachelor’s degree in international political economy from Georgetown University, graduating with honors.
Venaig Solinhac is Global Vice President Baby for Kenvue. In her current role, she is leading the Baby portfolio globally (including brands like Johnson’s Baby and Aveeno Baby) for the company. She has been focusing most recently on driving growth thanks to a renewed global communication for Johnson’s Baby, new packaging and upgraded formulations as well as a future innovation pipeline based on first time mom’s needs.
Priori to Kenvue, Venaig had an international career, working for GSK (now Haleon) for 15 years across five regions including France, United Kingdom, Africa, Middle East and Asia. She also worked for Olam on their Venture Business based out of Singapore. Venaig is also a French Trade Advisor and on the advisory board of several companies. She has also received several awards from the industry including Most Inspirational Women in Leadership in 2022 and 2023 as well as Marketeer of the Year during her time at GSK.
Kwadwo Som-Pimpong is the founder and chief craftsman of Crafted Glory, a luxury, handcrafted furniture studio based in Clyde, NC. Blending his and his wife’s Ghanaian artistic heritage with the clean lines of Scandinavian design, Kwadwo creates sculptural, heirloom-quality pieces that are both warm and timeless. Since beginning his woodworking journey in 2015, he has built a brand rooted in craftsmanship, sustainability, and storytelling. A dedicated Etsy seller since 2017, his work—known for its texture, elegance, and thoughtful design—is now featured in homes and spaces across all 50 states.
Stu Sprung is the former Chief of Flight Operations for CAL FIRE, the second-largest fire department in the United States and home to the world’s largest dedicated aerial firefighting fleet. CAL FIRE operates 75 fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft from 26 air bases across California.
Stu brings 35 years of California fire service experience, beginning his career as a firefighter/paramedic before transitioning into aviation. He is a dual-rated FAA Airline Transport Pilot with more than two decades of professional flying experience in aircraft including the Boeing 737, C-130H Hercules airtanker, UH-1H Super Huey, and OV-10A Bronco.
He holds a B.A. in Economics and A.S. degrees in Chemistry and Biology from the University of California, San Diego.
Dr. Phoebe Stapleton is an Associate Professor of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, and a resident member of the Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute. She earned her PhD and completed postdoctoral training at West Virginia University, specializing in microvascular physiology and inhalation toxicology. Her research explores the cardiovascular impacts of maternal exposure to nano-sized particles during pregnancy, examining maternal, fetal, and offspring outcomes. With over 60 peer-reviewed publications and multiple research awards, her recent focus on micro- and nanoplastic toxicology has gained wide recognition, including features in popular press outlets.
Tom Stricker is group vice president of Regulatory Affairs and Environmental Sustainability for Toyota Motor North America. He is responsible for Toyota’s U.S-based environmental sustainability strategy and projects, motor vehicle safety and environmental regulatory strategy and engagement, and enterprise chemical management.
Lindsey, Nest’s Chief Operating Officer, brings over a decade of nonprofit management and organizational capacity building experience to the Nest team, specializing in nonprofit governance, process improvement, financial accountability, and social impact reporting.
She previously managed CSR engagement in Russia and contributed to Charity Navigator's leadership, enhancing evaluation methodologies for financial health and nonprofit effectiveness. Lindsey has consulted for Intentional Futures and GLG Social Impact, supporting NGOs and social impact leaders with evaluation frameworks and growth strategies.
She holds an M.A. in International Development and a B.A. in Communications with certifications in Intercultural Relations and Program Strategy and Evaluation. Lindsey has served on the boards of TIP Global Health and the Mary J. Heerdt Charitable Trust, and is engaged in NYC Sustained Global Impact Community of Practice and Women Investing for a Sustainable Economy (WISE-NYC).
Amanda Sturgeon is the CEO of The Biomimicry Institute, where she leads a global community of innovators, educators, and change-makers working to align human systems with nature. An award-winning architect and author of Creating Biophilic Buildings and contributor to the bestselling anthology All We Can Save, her work has been featured in The Guardian and she is a frequent keynote speaker on climate and design. She previously served as CEO of Built by Nature and the International Living Future Institute, and was named a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects in 2015.
Daniel Suarez serves as the Conservation Director for National Audubon Society , where he leads the development and implementation of science-driven conservation strategies to protect and restore vital bird habitats across the Great Lakes region. His work focuses on advancing ambitious habitat restoration efforts to safeguard the waters of the Great Lakes and the coastal areas that support hundreds of species of migratory land birds and declining marsh birds.
Daniel oversees the growing portfolio of conservation programs in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin, including Audubon’s Conservation Ranching program and marshbird monitoring programs, building strong partnerships with public agencies, Tribal Nations, nonprofit organizations, and Audubon’s network of chapters, volunteers and community organizations. He collaborates closely with Audubon’s policy and engagement teams to mobilize a diverse and growing constituency that champions sound environmental policy across the region.
Gil Tal is a Professor in the Department of Environmental Science and Policy at the University of California, Davis, where he directs the Electric Vehicle Research Center and the Institute of Transportation Studies Research Consortium. He is a faculty member in the Transportation and Energy Graduate Groups and a leading expert on electric vehicle markets, adoption, charging behavior, and supply chains. His research spans incentives, infrastructure, and global EV policy across light and heavy-duty vehicles. Dr. Tal has authored more than 200 publications and regularly advises policymakers and industry in the United States and internationally.
As Colgate-Palmolive's Chief Sustainability Officer Ann leads Colgate’s Global Sustainability strategy and key initiatives, integrating a strong technical foundation across our enterprise Sustainability & Social Impact Strategy Core Ambition pillars - Driving Social Impact, Helping Millions of Homes and Preserving our Environment. Ann holds a BA degree in Applied Science, a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering, and a Master's of Engineering degree in Manufacturing Systems. Most recently Ann has completed a Certificate of Sustainability from the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership. Currently she is on the Board of the UNGC Network USA.
James Tyre, Senior Vice President, joined Neuberger Berman in 2006 and is currently a Research Analyst in the Global Equity Research Department covering basic materials and industrial companies. Prior to joining Neuberger Berman, he was an associate for six years in the Equity Research division of Lehman Brothers. Jim received a BS in Finance from Georgetown University.
Dr Sally Uren OBE is Executive Director and Chief Acceleration Officer of Forum for the Future, following eleven years (2013 – 2024) as Chief Executive. During this time, she has worked alongside many of the recognised leaders in sustainable business, co-founded the Net Positive Coalition and designed and delivered a number of Forum’s multi-stakeholder collaborations. Sally is externally recognised as an expert facilitator, speaker, and moderator.
Among Sally’s key passions is inspiring and equipping others to deliver systemic change for sustainability, which she continues to do through flagship projects including: Growing our Future, a collaborative programme designed to scale regenerative agriculture in the U.S; the Business Transformation Compass, a one-of-its-kind guide to just and regenerative business; and the Climate and Health Coalition, which is galvanising private sector action to tackle the human health impacts of the climate crisis. She also works alongside a range of ambitious businesses, including Aviva, Ahold Delhaize, The Crown Estate, and Walgreens Boots Alliance.
Sally is currently an independent member of Advisory Boards at Bentley Motors and EcoVadis, where she sits on a groundbreaking Purpose Committee.
Sally is also a Trustee of the Galapagos Conservation Trust as well as an independent Non-Executive Director for the Duke of Sussex’s Travalyst sustainable travel initiative. In December 2017, Sally received an OBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List for services to sustainability in business.
Sarah is the Senior Vice President, Healthy Communities, at Environmental Defense Fund (EDF). She joined EDF in 2012 and leads a team of scientists, attorneys and policy experts to protect health by reducing exposure to toxic chemicals and air pollution. In addition, Sarah co-leads Clean Air Catalyst, a USAID-supported clean air initiative with experts, governments and community leaders on the ground in Indore, India, Jakarta, Indonesia and Nairobi, Kenya.
Recent achievements of the program include: AirTracker technology global expansion, strong updates to U.S. chemical and air quality protections in 2024, bipartisan passage of major reforms to the nation’s chemical safety law in 2016; and leadership commitments by Walmart to reduce its chemical footprint in 2013 and 2017.
The current portfolio of work that Sarah oversees includes: defending strong implementation of the Lautenberg Chemical Safety Act; working with leading companies to reduce the use of hazardous chemicals along the supply chain; reducing lead exposures from drinking water and food; and catalyzing the use of hyperlocal air pollution information to drive innovative policy solutions for clean air.
Dr. Evelyn N. Wang is the Vice President for Energy and Climate and the Ford Professor of Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). She previously served as the Senate-confirmed Director at the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) from 2023-2025, where she led the Agency’s development, launch, and execution of high-risk, high-reward energy research and development programs. At MIT, she developed technologies for thermal management, energy conversion and storage, and water harvesting and purification.
Dr. Wang holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University. She also received an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University and a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from MIT. She is a member of the National Academy of Engineering, and Fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, American Association for the Advancement of Science, and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
Gabriel Watson leads data science activities at Environmental Policy Innovation Center. His work is multi-scalar and interdisciplinary, covering topics from wetlands to drinking water, supporting both community-based organizations and national policy makers. A data scientist by trade, he focuses on improving the quality and accessibility of environmental data through policy, analysis, and application development. His current projects of focus are the Wetlands Impact Tracker, a tool to reveal the data on projects impacting wetlands and aquatic resources, and the National Drinking Water Explorer Tool - a harmonized dataset and accompanying application displaying data on drinking water across the country. Recently, he's become involved in the preservation and archival of environmental data through the Public Environmental Data Partners. He lives in a hundred-year-old Baltimore rowhouse with his partner and three canines.
Dominic Kailashnath Waughray is Executive Vice President (EVP) and a member of the Leadership Team (LT) at the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), based in Geneva Switzerland. Dominic joined WBCSD in October 2021.
In his role as EVP, Dominic leads the Climate, Nature and Tackling Inequality Imperatives as part of WBCSD’s strategy.
Working closely with WBCSD Member companies, he focuses on building, scaling and accelerating collaborative business solutions that:
- reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mainstream climate change adaptation;
- improve corporate accountability for decarbonization;
- scale corporate action to become nature positive; grow high integrity investments in nature based solutions;
- and tackle rising inequality.
Dominic also has responsibility for WBCSD’s policy and advocacy. He works in close partnership to deliver these business solutions with WBCSD’s Pathways and Redefining Value Program pillars.
Claire Weisz, FAIA, Hon. FRAIC, Hon. ASLA, is the Founding Principal of WXY, an architecture and urban design firm focused on creating equitable, vibrant, and healthy buildings, places, and systems. Among its award-winning projects are the Spring Street Sanitation Garage and Salt Shed, the rooftop pavilion and farm at the Javits Center, and The Drawing Center.
Claire is also a co-founder and former co-executive director of The Design Trust for Public Space. She was awarded the prestigious Medal of Honor by the New York Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in 2018 and was honored with the Women in Architecture Award by Architectural Record in 2019.
Esther Whieldon is co-host of the S&P Global All Things Sustainable podcast, a senior writer on the S&P Global Sustainable1 Thought Leadership Team, and a member of S&P Global's Emerging Markets Research Lab. Esther has a background in journalism and previously covered energy and sustainability topics in the newsrooms of Politico, S&P Global Market Intelligence, and S&P Global Commodity Insights.
Freya Williams is a sustainability, brand purpose, corporate responsibility and marketing leader with 20+ years experience harnessing the power of business and brands to transform the world for the better. A trusted advisor to C-suite leaders, Freya partners with global corporations, agencies and nonprofits to translate sustainability and social impact into competitive advantage.
A vocal advocate of the role of sustainability in driving business performance, Freya is the author of Green Giants: How Smart Companies Turn Sustainability Into Billion-Dollar Businesses.
In her role as Chief Strategy Officer for creative impact consultancy Revolt in North America, she helps clients navigate the opportunities and obligations that purpose and sustainability present.
Dr. Chad Wilsey serves as Audubon’s Chief Scientist. In this role Chad leads a team of scientists conducting analyses in support of Audubon’s Flight Plan. Chad was a principal investigator on Audubon’s Survival by Degrees report, and Water and Birds in the Arid West: Habitats in Decline reports. Chad’s research generally focuses on the impacts of climate and land-use change on birds and ecosystems. He commonly works with big data collected by volunteer scientists along with tools such as GIS, machine learning, and systematic spatial prioritization.
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