Former Chief Environmental Officer at Microsoft, Founder of AI for Earth, Chief Sustainability Officer at Haveli Investments, PhD Ecologist & Global Sustainability Strategist
Lucas Joppa’s Biography:
Dr Lucas Joppa is a globally recognised leader in environmental science, data-driven innovation and sustainable business transformation. With a doctorate in ecology and a unique blend of academic, corporate, and philanthropic experience, Lucas has spent his career at the forefront of how technology and nature interact to address critical planetary challenges.
His early professional journey included service with the Peace Corps, academic research in ecology and a deep commitment to understanding natural systems. He later joined Microsoft, where he became the company’s first Chief Environmental Scientist and subsequently its first Chief Environmental Officer. In that role, he helped define and drive Microsoft’s sustainability strategy globally, including ambitious commitments to become carbon negative, water positive and zero waste. He also founded the AI for Earth programme, positioning Microsoft (and industry) to harness artificial intelligence for environmental impact.
Today, Lucas serves as Senior Managing Director and Chief Sustainability Officer at Haveli Investments, bringing together investment, innovation and operational change. Here, he integrates sustainability into the heart of technology-focused private equity, guiding companies to adopt net-zero pathways, measure emissions across the full scope and build sustainable growth models. Lucas stands out for his ability to speak fluently to both boardrooms and research labs, offering insights into how enterprises can align purpose, performance and planet.
At events, he translates complex science, ecosystem dynamics and data-thinking into clear, actionable frameworks, taking audiences from big picture systems to practical steps they can implement. Whether addressing executives, investors or policymakers, Lucas combines authenticity, insight and foresight to energise action and drive transformation.
Why Hire Dr Lucas Joppa?
Hiring Dr Lucas Joppa brings visionary leadership, scientific depth and real-world business insight to any event. As a thought leader at the intersection of technology, sustainability and strategy, he helps organisations transform environmental ambition into measurable action. Lucas has featured across major international media platforms, including BBC News, Bloomberg, CNBC, and The Economist, where he regularly discusses innovation, data-driven sustainability and the business value of environmental responsibility.
Dr Lucas Joppa’s Career Highlights:
Below showcases Dr Lucas Joppa’s milestones that influenced his inspirational career throughout sports:
- 2025 – Appointed Chief Sustainability Officer at Haveli Investments: Shapes global tech portfolio companies to achieve net-zero pathways and embed sustainability into core business strategy.
- 2022 – Senior Managing Director at Haveli Investments: Leads sustainability strategy across technology investments, driving innovation and measurable environmental impact.
- 2021 – Adjunct Professor at Yale University: Appointed to mentor and educate future leaders in environmental science and sustainability strategy.
- 2020 – UNEP-WCMC Fellow: Recognised for advancing global conservation through the integration of science, policy, and technology.
- 2020 – Advisory Board Member, National Renewable Energy Laboratory: Provides strategic guidance on renewable energy innovation and sustainable technology adoption.
- 2018 – Chief Environmental Officer at Microsoft: Directed Microsoft’s global sustainability vision, overseeing commitments to become carbon negative, water positive, and zero waste.
- 2017 – Founder of AI for Earth & Chief Environmental Scientist at Microsoft: Created a pioneering global programme using artificial intelligence to solve environmental challenges.
- 2017 – Board of Directors, NatureServe: Supported biodiversity research and data-led conservation initiatives across the Americas.
- 2016 – USERN Prize in Formal Sciences: Honoured for groundbreaking contributions to environmental data science and computational ecology.
- 2014 – Society for Conservation Biology Distinguished Service Award: Recognised internationally for leadership and influence in advancing global conservation science.
Videos
Lucas Joppa’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“We were thrilled with Lucas’ presentation as part of our Rise event. He was engaging, articulated clear messaging and used Microsoft initiatives & frameworks to back up his broader message. Thanks again for your help in securing him and coordinating his appearance at our event.” – Michael-Oliver, Brightness
“Thanks, the session went very well, it was a really good discussion, hence glad that we had Dr Lucas with us!” – Cassie
“It was unbelievably inspiring! I am sure everyone else felt the same way” – Hanan, Al Dabbagh Group
Speaking Topics
Dr Lucas Joppa’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Leading with Nature: How Business Can Embed Planet-Centred Thinking
- Change at Scale: Making Sustainability a Core Capability, Not a Side Project
- Harnessing Data & AI for Environmental Impact: From Insight to Action
- Investing for the Future: Tech, Responsibility and the Net-Zero Opportunity
- Building Resilient Organisations in a Rapidly Changing Planet
How Much Does Dr Lucas Joppa Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Dr Lucas Joppa?
The cost of hiring Lucas Joppa depends on factors such as your event requirements, whether it’s in-person or virtual, and any travel or accommodation needs. To receive an accurate quote, contact a London Keynote Speakers Agency booking agent for expert guidance.