Hannah Ritchie

Hannah Ritchie is a data scientist, sustainability researcher and bestselling author whose work has reshaped public understanding of climate change, environmental progress and global development. As Deputy Editor and Lead Researcher at Our World in Data and a Senior Researcher at the University of Oxford, she is recognised for turning complex datasets into clear, compelling insights. Through her research, writing and public speaking, Hannah challenges assumptions about the world’s biggest environmental issues, helping audiences understand where genuine progress is being made and where future innovation is needed. Her ability to combine rigorous evidence with accessible storytelling makes her a highly sought-after speaker for business, government and academic audiences.

Hannah’s career began with a focus on environmental science, studying Environmental Geoscience at the University of Edinburgh while undertaking research roles with the UK Biochar Research Centre and the University of Strathclyde. She went on to complete a Master’s degree in Carbon Management and worked on behavioural approaches to climate action with the Scotland 2020 Climate Group. Alongside consultancy and sustainability communications roles, she developed expertise in translating scientific research for wider audiences. Following positions with the University of Edinburgh, the Institute for Environmental IT Hamburg and the Newton-Bhabha Virtual Centre on Nitrogen Efficiency, Hannah joined Our World in Data, where she has become one of the organisation’s leading researchers and editors.

Widely respected for her contributions to climate communication, Hannah is the author of the bestselling books Not the End of the World and Clearing the Air. Her work has appeared in major international publications including the BBC, The Guardian, The Washington Post, The Atlantic, Vox, WIRED and New Scientist. She also writes the popular Sustainability by Numbers newsletter and co-hosts the Solving for Climate podcast. In recognition of her impact on public understanding of data, she has been appointed an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Statistical Society.

Beyond her research, Hannah is known for her optimistic and solutions-focused approach to global challenges. Rather than focusing solely on problems, she highlights how innovation, technology and evidence-based decision-making are creating measurable improvements across society. Her balanced perspective, combined with her talent for communicating complex ideas, enables audiences to leave informed, empowered and better equipped to navigate a rapidly changing world.

Hannah Ritchie is hired to provide audiences with a clear, evidence-based perspective on sustainability, climate change and global progress. Drawing on years of research and data analysis, she cuts through misinformation and presents practical insights on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future. Her acclaimed TED talk, Are We the Last Generation – Or the First Sustainable One?, showcases her ability to engage audiences with hopeful, data-driven narratives. Combining scientific expertise with exceptional communication skills, Hannah delivers presentations that are insightful, thought-provoking and highly relevant for modern organisations.

Here are some of the key milestones that define Hannah Ritchie’s remarkable career across data science and environmentalism:

  • 2026 – Published Clearing the Air
  • 2024 – Published Not the End of the World
  • 2017 – Senior Researcher, University of Oxford
  • 2017 – Deputy Editor and Lead Researcher, Our World in Data
  • 2016 – Business Development and Sustainability Manager, 3fbio
  • 2016 – PhD, University of Edinburgh
  • 2016 – Science Fellowship, Newton-Bhabba Virtual Centre on Nitrogren Efficiency
  • 2015 – Corporate Sustainability Writer, Institute for Environmental IT Hamburg
  • 2015 – Online Learning Educator – Sustainability and Social Responsibility, The University of Edinburgh
  • 2015 – Carbon Market Consultant, LTS International
  • 2014 – Writer/Editor, Sustainable Brands
  • 2014 – Behaviour Change Research/Public Engagement, Scotland 2020 Climate Group
  • 2013 – Research Scientist and Analyst – Biotechnology, University of Strathclyde
  • 2012 – Research Scientist, UK Biochar Research Centre