Natural Resources Speakers

A natural resources speaker is someone who specializes in communicating topics related to the Earth's physical assets-like water, minerals, forests, energy, and land use-to a public or professional audience. They might be scientists, policy experts, activists, entrepreneurs, or educators. What unites them is their ability to translate complex environmental and economic issues into accessible, engaging content.

These speakers often appear at conferences, summits, webinars, and podcasts. Their goal? To inform, challenge, and inspire audiences about the sustainable use and management of natural resources. For example, a speaker might explain how lithium mining impacts local communities or how regenerative agriculture can reverse soil degradation.

Natural resources speakers are not limited to one discipline. Some focus on the science-like climate modeling or hydrology. Others dive into economics, discussing carbon markets or fossil fuel subsidies. Still others tackle the social side: indigenous land rights, environmental justice, or food security.

In short, a natural resources speaker is a communicator who bridges the gap between technical knowledge and public understanding. They help people see the big picture-and their role in it.

When conversations about the planet's future happen without clarity, nuance, or urgency, progress stalls. That's where a natural resources speaker becomes essential.

First, they help demystify the science. Most people don't have time to read IPCC reports or analyze satellite data on deforestation. A skilled speaker can break down those insights into digestible, actionable ideas. Think of someone like Christiana Figueres, who speaks on climate policy with both authority and optimism.

Second, they connect global issues to local realities. A speaker might show how melting glaciers in the Himalayas affect rice farmers in Bangladesh or how cobalt mining in the Congo links to your smartphone. This kind of contextualization is crucial for driving meaningful action.

Third, they catalyze conversations across sectors. Natural resources touch everything-tech, fashion, finance, agriculture. A great speaker can bring these worlds together, helping a startup founder understand water scarcity or a policymaker grasp the ethics of land use.

Finally, they inspire. Not with vague hope, but with grounded, data-backed visions of what's possible. They show that sustainability isn't a buzzword-it's a roadmap. And they invite everyone to be part of it.

Natural resources speakers wear many professional hats, but their core function is to educate, engage, and influence audiences on issues related to the Earth's natural systems. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

1. Educate Diverse Audiences. They simplify complex topics like carbon sequestration, biodiversity loss, or mineral extraction for non-experts. Whether it's a keynote at a global summit or a guest spot on a podcast, their job is to make the science understandable.

2. Advocate for Sustainable Practices. Many natural resources speakers use their platform to push for policy change or corporate responsibility. For instance, speakers like Naomi Klein or Bill McKibben often address the intersection of resource use and social justice.

3. Consult and Advise. Beyond speaking, they may work with governments, NGOs, or companies to guide sustainable strategies. A forestry expert might help a timber company develop a reforestation plan, while a water rights advocate could consult on equitable distribution policies.

4. Bridge Sectors and Cultures. These speakers often act as connectors-linking indigenous knowledge with modern science, or aligning business goals with environmental ethics. Their role is especially critical in global forums where multiple perspectives need to be heard.

5. Inspire Action. Through storytelling, data, and vision, they motivate individuals and organizations to shift behaviors. Whether it's reducing plastic use, investing in renewables, or supporting conservation, they help people see their role in the bigger picture.

In essence, natural resources speakers are communicators, educators, and change agents who help the world understand and act on the challenges facing our planet.

Becoming a natural resources speaker isn't just about knowing the industry... it's about knowing how to share that knowledge in a way that resonates. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Know Your Niche.
- Natural resources is a broad field. Are you focused on renewable energy, mining policy, water conservation, or indigenous land rights? Pick a lane and go deep.
- Tip: Look at existing speakers on Talks.co to see how they position themselves. What gaps can you fill?

2. Build Your Expertise.
- You don't need a PhD, but you do need credibility. This could come from years in the field, academic research, or policy work.
- Example: If you've worked on sustainable forestry in Southeast Asia, that's a unique angle worth highlighting.

3. Create a Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a short video clip.
- Pro tip: Keep your video under 2 minutes and make it personal. Show your passion for the topic.

4. Start Speaking Anywhere You Can.
- Local environmental groups, university panels, online summits. These are great places to test your message and build your reel.
- Don't wait for a TEDx invite. Start with what's accessible.

5. Connect with Hosts and Event Planners.
- Use Talks.co to connect with summit hosts looking for experts. Reach out with a short pitch and a link to your speaker page.
- Be clear about what you offer: your topic, your audience fit, and the value you bring.

6. Keep Improving.
- Record every talk. Watch them back. Get feedback. Tweak your slides. Refine your message.
- Join speaker groups or mastermind communities to stay sharp.

This isn't an overnight journey, but if you're consistent and strategic, you'll start getting booked-and paid-for your voice.

To be a natural resources speaker, you need more than just a background in geology or environmental science. You need a mix of subject matter expertise, communication skills, and strategic positioning. Let's break it down:

Domain Knowledge
You need to understand your topic deeply. That could mean years of experience in forestry, mining, water policy, or sustainability. But it could also mean academic research or NGO work. The key is being able to explain complex issues in a way that a general audience can understand.

Communication Skills
Being a speaker means being a storyteller. You need to translate technical knowledge into compelling narratives. This includes:
- Public speaking confidence
- Slide design and visual storytelling
- The ability to adapt your message for different audiences (e.g., corporate vs. community groups)

Credibility and Proof
Event organizers want to know you're legit. That means:
- A professional speaker page (like on Talks.co) with your bio, topics, and testimonials
- Video clips of past talks
- Media mentions or publications, if available

Networking and Outreach
You'll need to connect with event hosts, summit organizers, and podcast producers. Platforms like Talks.co help by connecting speakers with hosts actively looking for experts.

A Clear Message
What's your unique take? Maybe you focus on the intersection of indigenous rights and land use, or the future of rare earth mining. Whatever it is, make it clear and consistent across your materials.

In short, being a natural resources speaker is about combining deep knowledge with the ability to communicate it powerfully-and positioning yourself where the right people can find you.

Yes, natural resources speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on a few key factors. Let's look at the landscape.
The Variables That Matter
- Experience Level: A veteran environmental economist will likely command more than a first-time speaker.
- Event Type: Corporate conferences and government summits tend to pay more than academic panels or community events.
- Region: Speaking fees in North America and Europe are generally higher than in other parts of the world, though this is changing.
Typical Payment Models
- Flat Speaking Fee: This is the most common. Ranges from $500 for local events to $10,000+ for high-profile conferences.
- Honorarium: A token payment, often under $1,000, typically for academic or nonprofit events.
- Travel + Per Diem: Some events cover expenses but don't pay a fee.
Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Opportunity to monetize expertise	Inconsistent income
Build authority and visibility	Some events offer exposure only
Potential for long-term consulting gigs	Requires self-promotion and negotiation

Many natural resources speakers also use speaking as a lead generator for other services-consulting, books, or online courses. So while not every talk is paid, the long-term ROI can be significant.
If you're just starting out, don't be discouraged by unpaid gigs. As I mentioned in 'How to become a natural resources speaker', those early talks help you build your reel and credibility.

Natural resources speakers make money in more ways than just keynote fees. In fact, the most successful ones diversify their income streams. Here's how they do it:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
- This includes conferences, summits, corporate events, and government forums.
- Rates vary widely, from $1,000 to $25,000+, depending on the speaker's reputation and the event's budget.

2. Consulting and Advisory Work
- Many speakers are also consultants. A talk can lead to a contract with a mining firm, environmental NGO, or policy think tank.
- Example: A speaker on sustainable water management might land a 6-month advisory role with a regional government.

3. Online Courses and Digital Products
- Speakers often package their expertise into courses, webinars, or downloadable toolkits.
- Platforms like Teachable or Kajabi are popular for this.

4. Books and Publications
- Publishing a book on a natural resources topic can boost credibility-and generate royalties.
- Bonus: It gives you a tangible product to sell at events or bundle with speaking packages.

5. Sponsored Content and Brand Partnerships
- Some speakers partner with eco-tech companies, conservation brands, or educational platforms.
- These deals might include sponsored webinars or co-branded content.

6. Hosting or Appearing on Summits
- Using platforms like Talks.co, speakers get booked on others' virtual summits.
- This can lead to affiliate income, list growth, or direct sales.

In short, natural resources speakers who treat their speaking career like a business-diversifying income and building assets-tend to earn more and stay relevant longer.

Earnings for natural resources speakers vary widely, depending on experience, niche, and how they monetize their platform. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:
Entry-Level Speakers
- Typically earn $500 to $2,000 per talk.
- Often speak at local events, universities, or nonprofit summits.
- May receive travel reimbursement rather than a full fee.
Mid-Level Speakers
- Earn between $2,000 and $7,500 per engagement.
- Have a solid speaker page, video reel, and a few media mentions.
- Often speak at industry conferences or regional government events.
Top-Tier Speakers
- Command $10,000 to $25,000+ per keynote.
- Frequently appear on global stages like COP summits, UN forums, or Davos.
- May also earn from consulting, books, and online courses.
Additional Income Streams

Source	Typical Annual Range
Consulting	$10,000 - $100,000+
Online Courses	$5,000 - $50,000
Book Royalties	$1,000 - $20,000

Factors That Influence Income
- Niche demand (e.g., climate finance is hot right now)
- Media visibility
- Speaking frequency (some do 2 gigs a year, others 50+)
So while some natural resources speakers treat it as a side hustle, others build six-figure careers. The key is strategic positioning and multiple revenue streams.

If you're looking to hire a natural resources speaker, the cost can vary dramatically based on several factors. Here's what you need to know:

Typical Price Ranges
- Local or Academic Speakers: $500 to $2,000. Often used for university events or local panels.
- Professional Speakers: $2,000 to $10,000. These individuals have a speaker page, video reel, and a track record of paid gigs.
- Celebrity or Global Experts: $10,000 to $50,000+. Think former ministers, bestselling authors, or TED speakers.

What Influences the Cost?
- Event Type: Corporate events usually pay more than nonprofit or academic ones.
- Duration and Format: A 60-minute keynote costs more than a 20-minute panel slot.
- Travel Requirements: International travel adds to the fee, or may require separate reimbursement.
- Customization: If the speaker needs to tailor content heavily or participate in multiple sessions, expect to pay more.

Hidden Costs to Consider
- Travel and accommodation (if not included)
- AV requirements (some speakers require specific tech setups)
- Licensing fees for recorded content (if you want to reuse the talk)

Booking Tip
Use platforms like Talks.co to compare speaker profiles, fees, and availability. It helps streamline the process and ensures transparency.

In summary, hiring a natural resources speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars. It all depends on who you're booking and what you're asking them to do.

Jane Goodall. Known globally for her work with chimpanzees, Goodall has also spoken extensively on conservation and sustainability. Her talks blend science with deep emotional resonance.

David Attenborough. While primarily known as a broadcaster, Attenborough's speeches on biodiversity and climate change have influenced global policy and public awareness.

Vandana Shiva. An Indian scholar and environmental activist, Shiva is a powerful voice on biodiversity, seed sovereignty, and the politics of natural resources.

Al Gore. Former US Vice President and founder of The Climate Reality Project, Gore has delivered thousands of talks on climate change and energy policy.

Gro Harlem Brundtland. Former Prime Minister of Norway and chair of the Brundtland Commission, she helped define 'sustainable development' and has spoken globally on resource management.

Wangari Maathai. The late Kenyan Nobel laureate and founder of the Green Belt Movement, Maathai was a compelling speaker on deforestation and women's roles in conservation.

Bill McKibben. Founder of 350.org, McKibben is a prolific speaker on fossil fuels, climate activism, and the economics of natural resources.

Sylvia Earle. A marine biologist and oceanographer, Earle's TED Talks and public lectures have made ocean conservation a mainstream issue.

Jeff Gibbs. Known for his controversial documentary work, Gibbs has sparked debate on the green energy industry and its ties to natural resource exploitation.

Severn Cullis-Suzuki. Gained fame as a child speaker at the 1992 Earth Summit, and continues to speak on intergenerational responsibility and environmental justice.

Christiana Figueres. Former Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC, she played a key role in the Paris Agreement and is a sought-after speaker on climate diplomacy and sustainable development.

Naoko Ishii. Former CEO of the Global Environment Facility, Ishii speaks on global finance, biodiversity, and the intersection of economics and natural resources.

Tom Steyer. American investor and philanthropist, Steyer speaks on clean energy investment and the economic implications of climate change.

Sunita Narain. Director of the Centre for Science and Environment in India, Narain is a fierce advocate for water rights and environmental equity in the Global South.

Inger Andersen. Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme, Andersen is a respected voice on global environmental governance and natural capital.

Carlos Nobre. Brazilian climate scientist and speaker on Amazon rainforest preservation and tipping points in ecological systems.

Elizabeth Wathuti. A young Kenyan climate activist and founder of the Green Generation Initiative, Wathuti has spoken at COP26 and other global forums.

Michael Mann. Renowned climate scientist and communicator, Mann speaks on climate denial, policy, and the science of global warming.

Tzeporah Berman. Canadian environmental campaigner and speaker on fossil fuel divestment, forest protection, and energy transition.

Fatih Birol. Executive Director of the International Energy Agency, Birol speaks on global energy trends, policy, and the future of fossil fuels and renewables.

Let's cut through some of the noise. There are a lot of assumptions floating around about natural resources speakers, and frankly, many of them don't hold up when you look closer.

- Myth 1: Natural resources speakers are only scientists or academics.
This is a common misconception. While many speakers do come from research or academic backgrounds, others are policy advocates, indigenous leaders, entrepreneurs in sustainable tech, or even former miners turned environmental consultants. For example, Winona LaDuke, a Native American environmentalist, brings a deeply cultural and community-based perspective to natural resources discussions. She's not a geologist, but her voice is just as vital.

- Myth 2: They only talk about climate change.
Climate change is a big topic, sure, but natural resources speakers cover a much broader spectrum: water rights, land use, mining ethics, biodiversity, and even blockchain in supply chain transparency. Think of someone like Tzeporah Berman, who speaks on fossil fuel divestment and forest conservation. Her topics range far beyond just climate.

- Myth 3: You need a PhD to be taken seriously.
Credentials help, but they're not the only currency. Experience in the field, storytelling ability, and a clear message can be just as powerful. Take someone like Yassmin Abdel-Magied, who, while trained as a mechanical engineer, speaks compellingly about oil and gas from a diversity and ethics standpoint. Her impact comes from her unique lens, not just degrees.

- Myth 4: It's a niche with no audience.
Actually, demand is growing. Conferences on sustainability, ESG investing, and corporate responsibility are booming. Companies are under pressure to show environmental leadership, and they're looking for speakers who can translate complex resource issues into actionable insights. Natural resources speakers are landing keynotes at events like GreenBiz, SXSW Eco, and even Davos.

- Myth 5: They only speak to environmentalists.
Not true. The best natural resources speakers tailor their message to diverse audiences: farmers, investors, government officials, students, and even skeptics. They know how to connect the dots between resource use and real-world impact. That's what makes them effective.

Picture this: a packed auditorium in Nairobi, where Elizabeth Wathuti, a young Kenyan environmentalist, is addressing a crowd of policymakers and youth activists. Her voice is calm but firm as she speaks about deforestation in the Aberdare Range. She doesn't just cite stats. She tells stories of rivers drying up, of farmers struggling, of children walking farther for water. By the end, the room is silent. Then comes the applause. It's not just about what she said, but how she made them feel.

Now shift to Canada. David Suzuki, a household name in environmental science, has been speaking for decades. But what sets him apart isn't just his longevity. It's his ability to evolve. He's moved from TV science shows to TEDx talks to social media activism. He's spoken at universities, indigenous gatherings, and corporate boardrooms. In each space, he adapts. He doesn't just inform, he provokes.

Then there's Rodrigo Medellín, known as Mexico's 'Bat Man'. He's a conservation biologist who speaks passionately about biodiversity, particularly bats and their role in ecosystems. His talks are filled with humor, visuals, and unexpected facts. He once turned a dry academic lecture into a viral TED Talk by simply showing how tequila depends on bats. That's storytelling with impact.

And don't forget Vandana Shiva, the Indian scholar and food sovereignty advocate. Her speeches blend science, philosophy, and activism. Whether she's addressing the UN or a group of farmers in rural India, she brings the same clarity and conviction. Her success lies in her consistency and cross-cultural resonance.

These speakers didn't follow a single path. Some started in labs, others in protests. Some use data, others use emotion. But all of them share one thing: they connect. They make complex issues human. And that's what makes them unforgettable.

Natural resources speakers are stepping into a new era. The landscape is shifting, not just in terms of content, but also in how and where these voices are being heard. Here's what's on the horizon:

- Intersectional storytelling is gaining traction.
Audiences are no longer satisfied with siloed narratives. They want to understand how natural resources intersect with race, gender, economics, and geopolitics. Speakers who can weave these threads together are finding more opportunities, especially on global stages.

- Virtual platforms are expanding reach.
Post-2020, the speaking world has gone hybrid. Natural resources speakers are now presenting at international conferences without leaving their home countries. This opens doors for voices from the Global South, indigenous communities, and grassroots leaders who previously faced travel barriers.

- Corporate demand is growing.
ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) is more than a buzzword. Companies are under pressure to educate their teams and stakeholders. Natural resources speakers with experience in sustainable supply chains, ethical mining, or water management are being booked for internal trainings, investor briefings, and public panels.

- Data-driven storytelling is becoming essential.
It's not enough to be passionate. Audiences want evidence. Speakers who can present compelling data in accessible ways-think infographics, interactive visuals, or real-time dashboards-are standing out. Tools like Flourish and Tableau are becoming part of the speaker toolkit.

- Youth voices are rising.
Greta Thunberg opened the floodgates. Now, younger speakers are being invited to major events, not as token voices, but as central contributors. Their authenticity and urgency resonate with audiences across generations.

In short, the future belongs to those who can adapt, collaborate, and communicate across boundaries. Natural resources speakers who embrace these trends will not only stay relevant-they'll lead the conversation.

- Talks.co. This is a go-to platform for connecting with podcast hosts and event organizers. If you're just starting out, it's a great way to get booked on shows that align with your niche. Tip: Customize your profile with a strong one-liner about your natural resources angle.

- ClimateBase. More than a job board, ClimateBase also lists fellowships, events, and speaker opportunities focused on sustainability and environmental justice. Use it to find speaking gigs or collaborations with climate-focused orgs.

- SpeakerHub. A directory where you can list your profile, browse events, and connect with event planners. Make sure to tag your expertise in areas like water rights, sustainable mining, or biodiversity to get discovered by the right people.

- Flourish. A powerful tool for creating interactive data visualizations. If you're presenting stats on resource depletion, carbon emissions, or land use, this can help you tell a more compelling story. Tip: Embed these visuals in your slide decks or virtual talks.

- The Green Speaker Directory. A curated list of speakers focused on environmental and sustainability topics. Getting listed here can boost your credibility and visibility, especially for eco-focused events.

- LinkedIn Events. Don't underestimate the power of hosting your own webinars or panels. Use LinkedIn Events to promote your sessions, invite collaborators, and build your audience. Bonus: You can repurpose the content for YouTube or a podcast.

- EarthX. This annual event and platform offers speaker opportunities across a wide range of environmental topics. They also host virtual summits and youth panels. Keep an eye on their call for speakers.

- Canva. For slide decks that don't look like they came from 2003. Use Canva's templates to create clean, modern visuals that support your message. Pro tip: Use the 'Charts' feature to visualize resource data in a digestible way.

These tools aren't just about looking good-they're about being discoverable, credible, and clear. Whether you're pitching yourself to a local school or a global summit, these resources can help you level up.