Esg Environmental Speakers

An ESG environmental speaker is someone who educates, informs, and motivates audiences around topics related to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues - with a particular focus on the 'E'.

These speakers typically have deep expertise in areas like climate change, sustainability strategy, renewable energy, biodiversity, or environmental justice. But what sets them apart is their ability to communicate these complex topics in a way that resonates with diverse audiences - from boardrooms to classrooms.

Unlike general sustainability consultants or environmental scientists, ESG environmental speakers are trained (or naturally gifted) communicators. They're often invited to speak at conferences, corporate events, webinars, or podcasts to help organizations and individuals understand how environmental issues intersect with business, policy, and society.

They might break down the implications of new climate regulations, explain how ESG metrics affect investor decisions, or offer frameworks for reducing carbon emissions in supply chains. Their role is to make the environmental side of ESG not just understandable, but actionable.

In short, an ESG environmental speaker is a bridge between technical knowledge and real-world application - someone who turns data into direction and insight into impact.

When climate reports are dense and ESG frameworks feel like alphabet soup, an ESG environmental speaker can be the translator your audience didn't know they needed.

These speakers play a crucial role in helping people and organizations connect the dots between environmental data and decision-making. Whether it's a CEO trying to future-proof their business or a local government planning sustainable infrastructure, the guidance of a skilled speaker can clarify the stakes and spotlight the solutions.

In corporate settings, ESG environmental speakers often help leadership teams understand how environmental risks - like water scarcity, carbon pricing, or biodiversity loss - can impact long-term value. For example, a speaker might explain how companies like Unilever or Patagonia are embedding sustainability into their core strategy, not just as a PR move, but as a business imperative.

In community or educational contexts, these speakers can inspire younger generations to pursue careers in green tech, conservation, or ESG investing. They can also help demystify topics like circular economy or regenerative agriculture for audiences who are just starting their sustainability journey.

Ultimately, the importance of an ESG environmental speaker lies in their ability to turn urgency into understanding - and understanding into action. They don't just inform. They catalyze change.

ESG environmental speakers wear many functional hats - not metaphorically, but in the sense that their work spans education, advocacy, strategy, and communication. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

1. Educate Diverse Audiences.
- They break down complex environmental topics like carbon accounting, climate risk, or green finance for different groups - from C-suite executives to high school students.
- They often tailor content to the audience's level of familiarity, whether it's a deep dive into Scope 3 emissions or an introduction to sustainable packaging.

2. Inspire Strategic Thinking.
- ESG environmental speakers help organizations see the bigger picture. For example, they might show how shifting to renewable energy isn't just good for the planet - it's a hedge against volatile fossil fuel prices.
- They often use case studies from global companies like IKEA or local startups to illustrate how environmental action can drive innovation.

3. Translate Policy and Regulation.
- With ESG regulations evolving fast (think CSRD in Europe or SEC climate disclosures in the US), these speakers help audiences understand what's coming and how to prepare.
- They provide context, implications, and sometimes even step-by-step guidance on compliance.

4. Facilitate Dialogue and Collaboration.
- Many ESG environmental speakers also moderate panels, lead workshops, or host roundtables.
- They create space for cross-sector conversations - for instance, between NGOs, investors, and tech founders - to explore shared solutions.

5. Advocate for Action.
- Whether it's urging policy reform, encouraging sustainable investing, or promoting climate justice, these speakers often have a clear call to action.
- They don't just present problems. They offer pathways forward.

In essence, ESG environmental speakers are communicators, connectors, and catalysts - helping people move from awareness to action across industries and geographies.

Ready to step into the spotlight as an ESG environmental speaker? Here's a step-by-step breakdown to help you get started and build real momentum:

1. Define Your ESG Niche.
- ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) is a broad field. Are you passionate about climate policy, sustainable investing, green tech, or corporate responsibility?
- Tip: The more specific your niche, the easier it is to stand out. For example, 'circular economy in fashion' or 'ESG metrics for fintech startups'.

2. Build Your Expertise.
- Get certified or educated in sustainability, environmental science, or ESG reporting. Consider programs from GRI, SASB, or CFA Institute's ESG Investing Certificate.
- Stay current with global ESG trends and regulations, like the EU Taxonomy or SEC climate disclosures.

3. Create Your Speaker Profile.
- Set up a speaker page on platforms like Talks.co. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and sample videos.
- Pro tip: Record a short, high-quality video introducing yourself and your key topics. Event organizers love seeing you in action.

4. Start Speaking Locally.
- Look for local business forums, sustainability meetups, or university events. These are great for gaining experience and testimonials.
- Reach out directly to event hosts or use Talks.co to connect with organizers looking for ESG experts.

5. Leverage Online Events.
- Virtual summits and webinars are booming. Pitch yourself as a guest speaker or panelist on platforms like LinkedIn, Eventbrite, and Talks.co.
- Bonus: Online events often record sessions, giving you more content for your speaker reel.

6. Network with Purpose.
- Join ESG communities like GreenBiz, Net Impact, or regional sustainability councils.
- Attend industry events and connect with other speakers, hosts, and corporate sustainability officers.

7. Keep Evolving.
- ESG is dynamic. Keep learning, updating your content, and refining your delivery.
- Ask for feedback after each talk and use it to improve.

Becoming an ESG environmental speaker isn't about being perfect from day one. It's about showing up with clarity, credibility, and a message that matters.

To be an ESG environmental speaker, you need more than just a passion for sustainability. You need a blend of subject matter expertise, communication skills, and strategic positioning. Let's break it down.

First, you need credibility in ESG. That could come from academic qualifications, industry certifications, or hands-on experience. Many speakers hold degrees in environmental science, economics, or public policy. Others build credibility through roles in sustainability departments, NGOs, or ESG-focused startups. Certifications like the CFA ESG Investing Certificate or GRI Standards training can also boost your authority.

Second, you need a clear message. ESG is a vast topic, so it's crucial to define your unique angle. Are you focused on climate risk disclosure? Diversity and inclusion in governance? Sustainable supply chains? A focused message helps you connect with the right audiences and stand out in a crowded space.

Third, you need a platform. This is where Talks.co comes in. By creating a speaker page, you can showcase your expertise, speaking topics, and past appearances. It also helps event organizers find and book you. Think of it as your digital stage.

Fourth, you need presentation skills. Being a great speaker means knowing how to engage an audience, tell compelling stories, and simplify complex ideas. If you're new to public speaking, consider joining Toastmasters or taking a communication course.

Finally, you need connections. ESG events, corporate conferences, and virtual summits are always looking for fresh voices. Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with hosts and pitch yourself for panels, webinars, or keynotes.

In short, becoming an ESG environmental speaker is about combining expertise with visibility. When you position yourself well, opportunities will follow.

Yes, ESG environmental speakers do get paid, but how much and how often depends on several factors: experience, audience, event type, and region.

Let's look at the data:
- Entry-level ESG speakers (new to the circuit) might earn $0 to $1,000 per talk, especially if they're speaking at community events or academic conferences.
- Mid-tier professionals with a solid track record can command $1,000 to $5,000 per appearance.
- High-profile ESG experts or authors with global recognition can earn $10,000 to $50,000+ for keynotes at corporate or international events.

There are pros and cons to this model:

Pros:
- Speaking fees can be lucrative, especially for corporate events.
- Paid speaking often leads to consulting gigs or board invitations.
- Travel and accommodations are usually covered.

Cons:
- Not all events pay. Many academic or nonprofit conferences offer exposure instead of cash.
- Competition is growing as ESG becomes more mainstream.
- Payment timelines can be slow, especially with large organizations.

Some speakers also use Talks.co to streamline their booking process and clarify fees upfront. This helps avoid awkward negotiations and ensures transparency.

In short, yes, ESG environmental speakers get paid, but the income varies. The key is to build your brand, define your value, and choose events strategically.

ESG environmental speakers don't rely on a single income stream. Instead, they diversify their revenue across multiple channels. Here's how they typically make money:

1. Speaking Fees.
- This is the most obvious source. Speakers charge for keynotes, panels, workshops, or webinars.
- Rates vary based on experience, topic, and audience size (see 'How much do ESG environmental speakers make').

2. Consulting and Advisory Roles.
- Many speakers also work as ESG consultants for corporations, startups, or NGOs.
- Speaking gigs often lead to consulting contracts, especially when clients want help implementing the ideas discussed on stage.

3. Online Courses and Digital Products.
- Some speakers create courses on ESG topics, like sustainable investing or climate risk.
- Platforms like Teachable or Kajabi allow them to monetize their expertise at scale.

4. Books and Publications.
- Publishing a book on ESG can boost credibility and generate royalties.
- It also opens doors to higher-paying speaking gigs and media appearances.

5. Sponsored Content and Brand Partnerships.
- ESG speakers with large followings may partner with ethical brands or green tech companies.
- They might host webinars, write thought leadership articles, or appear in branded campaigns.

6. Affiliate and Referral Income.
- Some speakers earn commissions by referring clients to ESG tools, platforms, or services.
- For example, referring companies to carbon accounting software or ESG data providers.

7. Hosting Events or Summits.
- Hosting your own virtual summit can generate revenue through ticket sales, sponsorships, and upsells.

In essence, ESG environmental speakers are entrepreneurs. They mix speaking with content, consulting, and community-building to create sustainable income.

The income of ESG environmental speakers varies widely, depending on their experience, niche, and audience. Let's break it down with some real-world benchmarks:

Speaker Level	Typical Fee per Talk	Annual Income Range (from speaking)
Beginner	$0 - $1,000	$0 - $10,000
Mid-Level	$1,000 - $5,000	$10,000 - $75,000
High-Profile Expert	$10,000 - $50,000+	$100,000+

Factors that influence earnings:
- Topic Relevance: Speakers focused on hot ESG issues like carbon disclosure or green finance tend to earn more.
- Audience Type: Corporate events pay more than academic or nonprofit conferences.
- Geographic Reach: Speakers in North America and Europe often command higher fees, but Asia-Pacific is catching up fast.
- Reputation: Authors, former executives, or media personalities can charge premium rates.
Additional income sources (see 'How do ESG environmental speakers make money') can significantly boost total earnings. For example, a speaker might earn $25,000 from talks but another $75,000 from consulting and courses.
So while some ESG speakers treat it as a side hustle, others build six-figure businesses around it. The key is positioning, consistency, and value delivery.

If you're looking to hire an ESG environmental speaker, the cost can range from free to tens of thousands of dollars. Here's a breakdown to help you budget:

Speaker Type	Cost Range per Talk	Notes
Emerging Speaker	$0 - $1,000	Ideal for local events or webinars.
Mid-Level Speaker	$1,000 - $5,000	Good for corporate workshops.
Top-Tier Expert	$10,000 - $50,000+	Best for global conferences.

What affects the cost:
- Event Type: A keynote at a Fortune 500 summit will cost more than a panel at a local university.
- Customization: Tailored presentations or workshops often come with higher fees.
- Travel and Logistics: In-person events may require covering flights, hotels, and per diem.
- Speaker Popularity: If the speaker has a book, media presence, or TED Talk, expect to pay more.
Tips for booking:
- Use platforms like Talks.co to find speakers within your budget and see their availability.
- Be transparent about your budget early on. Some speakers offer discounts for nonprofits or educational events.
- Consider virtual speaking to save on travel costs.
In short, ESG environmental speakers can fit a wide range of budgets, but quality and impact often scale with cost.

- Al Gore: Former US Vice President and founder of The Climate Reality Project. His documentary 'An Inconvenient Truth' brought climate change into mainstream discourse.
- Christiana Figueres: Former Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC and a key architect of the Paris Agreement. Her talks blend policy, optimism, and urgency.
- Paul Polman: Former CEO of Unilever and co-founder of IMAGINE. Known for integrating ESG into corporate strategy.
- Naomi Klein: Author of 'This Changes Everything' and a fierce critic of corporate greenwashing. Her talks challenge the status quo.
- Dr. Vandana Shiva: Indian scholar and environmental activist. She speaks passionately on biodiversity, food sovereignty, and ecofeminism.
- Greta Thunberg: While young, her speeches at the UN and Davos have had global impact. She speaks with moral clarity and data-driven urgency.
- Robert Swan: The first person to walk to both the North and South Poles. His talks focus on leadership and climate action.
- Hunter Lovins: Co-author of 'Natural Capitalism' and founder of Natural Capitalism Solutions. She's a pioneer in sustainable business.
- Dr. Jane Goodall: Though best known for her work with primates, her environmental advocacy has inspired millions.
- Bill McKibben: Founder of 350.org and a leading voice on climate activism. His talks are both sobering and mobilizing.

- Kate Raworth: Economist and author of 'Doughnut Economics'. Her talks challenge traditional growth models and propose regenerative economies.
- Mark Carney: Former Governor of the Bank of England and UN Special Envoy on Climate Action and Finance. He bridges finance and climate policy.
- Isatou Ceesay: Known as 'The Queen of Recycling' in The Gambia. Her grassroots work on plastic waste has global resonance.
- Xiye Bastida: Mexican-Chilean youth climate activist and co-founder of the Re-Earth Initiative. A rising voice in climate justice.
- Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson: Marine biologist and co-founder of Urban Ocean Lab. Her talks connect ocean conservation with racial equity.
- Nigel Topping: Former UK High-Level Climate Action Champion for COP26. He speaks on corporate ESG transformation.
- Fatih Birol: Executive Director of the International Energy Agency. His insights on energy transitions are globally respected.
- Marina Silva: Brazilian environmentalist and politician. Her speeches highlight the Amazon's role in global ESG discussions.
- Jennifer Morgan: Former Executive Director of Greenpeace International and now Germany's Special Envoy for International Climate Policy.
- Dr. Johan Rockström: Director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research. Known for the planetary boundaries framework.

Let's break down some of the most persistent misconceptions about ESG environmental speakers. These myths can hold people back from stepping into the space or mislead event organizers about what to expect.

1. Myth: ESG environmental speakers are only for corporate sustainability events.
This is a narrow view. ESG environmental speakers are showing up at tech conferences, investor summits, startup accelerators, even pop culture festivals. Why? Because ESG isn't just about compliance anymore. It's about innovation, risk management, and long-term value. Take someone like Christiana Figueres, the former UN climate chief. She's spoken at everything from climate forums to TED to business leadership events. ESG is now a cross-sector conversation.

2. Myth: They only talk about climate change.
ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. So yes, climate is a big piece, but it's not the whole puzzle. ESG environmental speakers often cover topics like supply chain ethics, boardroom diversity, data transparency, and green finance. For example, speakers like Audrey Choi (formerly at Morgan Stanley) dive deep into sustainable investing and how governance impacts environmental outcomes. It's a multi-dimensional space.

3. Myth: You need a PhD or decades of experience to be one.
Not true. While academic and corporate experts are part of the mix, many ESG environmental speakers come from grassroots activism, journalism, entrepreneurship, or policy. What matters most is clarity, credibility, and the ability to connect ESG principles to real-world outcomes. Think of someone like Leah Thomas, founder of Intersectional Environmentalist. She built her platform through accessible, inclusive storytelling-not academic credentials.

4. Myth: ESG is just a trend-it'll fade.
ESG is being embedded into regulatory frameworks, investor expectations, and consumer behavior. The EU's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the SEC's climate disclosure rules, and the rise of ESG ETFs are just a few examples. ESG environmental speakers are helping audiences navigate this shift-not just hype it.

5. Myth: They're all doom and gloom.
Actually, many of the best ESG environmental speakers are optimistic, solutions-focused, and inspiring. They're not just pointing out problems-they're showcasing innovations, policy wins, and business models that work. That's what keeps audiences engaged and hopeful.

When you think about ESG environmental speakers, you might picture someone in a suit with a slide deck full of emissions data. But the reality is way more dynamic. Let's look at a few standout examples that show just how diverse and impactful these speakers can be.

In 2019, former Unilever CEO Paul Polman took the stage at the Global Compact Leaders Summit. He didn't just talk about Unilever's sustainability metrics. He challenged CEOs to rethink capitalism itself. His message? Long-term value beats short-term profit. That keynote sparked conversations across boardrooms and was cited in multiple ESG strategy documents afterward.

Then there's Xiye Bastida, a Mexican-Chilean climate activist and youth leader. She's spoken at the UN, the World Economic Forum, and dozens of grassroots events. Her storytelling blends science, indigenous wisdom, and personal experience. She doesn't just inform-she moves people. Her talks have helped shift how institutions include youth voices in ESG planning.

In the finance world, Hiro Mizuno, former CIO of Japan's Government Pension Investment Fund, has been a game-changer. When he speaks, asset managers listen. At the PRI in Person conference, he laid out how ESG integration isn't just ethical-it's fiduciary. His talks have influenced how pension funds and sovereign wealth funds approach ESG.

And don't overlook regional voices. In Kenya, Elizabeth Wathuti uses her platform to connect environmental degradation with food insecurity. Her TED Talk and COP26 speech reached millions. She's proof that ESG environmental speakers don't need a global brand to make a global impact.

These speakers didn't follow a script. They brought their unique lens, backed by data or lived experience, and connected with audiences in ways that sparked action. That's the real power of ESG environmental speaking.

The landscape for ESG environmental speakers is shifting-and not just in terms of topics. The way these speakers are booked, the audiences they reach, and the expectations they face are all evolving. Here's what's on the horizon:

- Hyper-local storytelling will gain traction. Global narratives are important, but audiences are craving local relevance. Expect more ESG environmental speakers to tailor their message to regional challenges-like water scarcity in the Southwest US or urban air quality in Southeast Asia.

- Data fluency will become non-negotiable. It's not enough to inspire. Speakers will need to back up claims with real metrics. With the rise of ESG reporting standards like ISSB and CSRD, audiences are getting savvier. Speakers who can translate complex data into digestible insights will stand out.

- Intersectionality will be front and center. ESG is no longer siloed. Speakers who can connect environmental issues with social justice, indigenous rights, or digital ethics will resonate more. Think of how speakers like Naomi Klein or Varshini Prakash weave climate with equity.

- Virtual and hybrid formats will demand new skills. Post-pandemic, many events are staying hybrid. ESG environmental speakers will need to master both in-person charisma and on-camera presence. That means tighter messaging, better visuals, and interactive formats.

- Corporate demand will diversify. It's not just sustainability departments booking ESG speakers anymore. HR, investor relations, procurement, even marketing teams are bringing in ESG voices to align internal strategy.

In short, the future belongs to ESG environmental speakers who are agile, informed, and audience-aware. Whether you're just starting out or already established, staying ahead of these trends can help you stay relevant and in demand.

If you're looking to break into the ESG speaking space or level up your current game, the right tools can make a big difference. Here's a curated list of platforms, resources, and tips to help you build authority, get booked, and deliver with impact:

1. Talks.co. This podcast guest-matching tool is a goldmine for emerging ESG environmental speakers. It helps you connect with podcast hosts looking for experts in sustainability, governance, and impact. Tip: Start with niche shows to build credibility before pitching larger platforms.

2. GreenBiz Events. GreenBiz hosts some of the most respected ESG-focused conferences globally. Their speaker application process is transparent, and attending their events (even virtually) can help you understand what resonates with ESG audiences.

3. TED Countdown. This climate-focused TED initiative is a great place to study how top-tier ESG speakers structure their talks. Browse their video library for inspiration on tone, visuals, and storytelling.

4. SpeakerHub. A platform where you can create a speaker profile, list your topics, and get discovered by event organizers. Make sure your bio clearly connects your ESG expertise to current business or policy challenges.

5. Climate Reality Leadership Corps. Founded by Al Gore, this training program equips you with presentation materials, data, and a global network. It's especially useful if you're new to climate communication.

6. LinkedIn Creator Mode. Turn this on to highlight your ESG content, go live, and attract followers. Use hashtags like #ESGspeaker or #sustainableleadership to boost visibility.

7. Canva. For slide decks that don't put people to sleep. Use their presentation templates to create clean, engaging visuals that support your message without overwhelming your audience.

8. UN SDG Knowledge Platform. If you want to align your talk with global goals, this is your go-to resource. It's packed with data, case studies, and frameworks that can add depth to your content.

Whether you're pitching your first talk or refining your signature keynote, these tools can help you stand out in a crowded space. Combine them with a clear message and a strong delivery, and you'll be well on your way.