Unlocking finance for a circular and regenerative economy
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We must plan how public and private capital will be raised and invested to create a circular economy.
The session will explore the role of road maps for the financial sector as a mechanism to tackle challenges and drive coherent action towards de-risking investment in circular initiatives globally. Representatives of multilateral banking institutions, the private sector, national governments and local decision makers will share their experiences of the opportunities and challenges of investing in our circular future.
Introduction
Marvin Nusseck
Senior Strategist
Circle Economy
Marvin leads Circle Economy's work on the international financial institutions' circular economy transition. His expertise lies in developing strategic solutions around financing challenges and measuring the circular economy. He also leads the research and development on circular indicators and metrics as secretariat member of the Circular Economy Indicator Coalition (CEIC). Before joining Circle Economy, he gained experience in business consulting and development in the DACH area (Germany, Austria and Switzerland). As freelancer he also gained years of experience in the electronic equipment (waste) sector. Marvin holds an MSc in political economy from the Universiteit van Amsterdam and a BSc in business economics.
llektra Kouloumpi helps cities and businesses to thrive within the planetary boundaries. The Thrive programme draws from circular and regenerative economy theories to help different groups implement holistic circular economy strategies. Prior to this, Ilektra has led the Circle City Scans team at Circle Economy, working with cities in Europe, USA and Asia, while she has been co-ordinating the overall academy and training offerings of the organisation. Previously, Ilektra worked as a senior researcher at the Smart & Sustainable Urbanism department of TU Berlin, as an engineer and buildings designer at Arup, and as a policy analyst at the Buildings Performance Institute of Europe in Brussels. A fond lover of people and groups working creatively and deeply curious about new ways of living in harmony with nature, Ilektra has designed and led participatory processes for changemakers in multiple countries across the world. She often lectures and presents at conferences, universities and international events about new economic models that make people and planet thrive.
Setting the scene: Why does financing unlock the circular economy?
Nicola Pochettino
Director
European Investment Bank
Nicola Pochettino is director of the environment and natural resources department at the European Investment Bank (EIB) in Luxembourg, covering the circular economy, water and bioeconomy. Prior to joining the EIB, he worked at the International Energy Agency in Paris and in various positions in the financial sector and the energy industry, both in Italy and the UK. Nicola is a CFA charter holder; he holds an MSc in nuclear engineering from the Polytechnic of Turin and a Master's in economics and management of energy and the environment.
Moving from ideas to action: How do road maps enable action?
Ilektra Kouloumpi
Thrive Lead
Circle Economy
llektra Kouloumpi helps cities and businesses to thrive within the planetary boundaries. The Thrive programme draws from circular and regenerative economy theories to help different groups implement holistic circular economy strategies. Prior to this, Ilektra has led the Circle City Scans team at Circle Economy, working with cities in Europe, USA and Asia, while she has been co-ordinating the overall academy and training offerings of the organisation. Previously, Ilektra worked as a senior researcher at the Smart & Sustainable Urbanism department of TU Berlin, as an engineer and buildings designer at Arup, and as a policy analyst at the Buildings Performance Institute of Europe in Brussels. A fond lover of people and groups working creatively and deeply curious about new ways of living in harmony with nature, Ilektra has designed and led participatory processes for changemakers in multiple countries across the world. She often lectures and presents at conferences, universities and international events about new economic models that make people and planet thrive.
Marvin leads Circle Economy's work on the international financial institutions' circular economy transition. His expertise lies in developing strategic solutions around financing challenges and measuring the circular economy. He also leads the research and development on circular indicators and metrics as secretariat member of the Circular Economy Indicator Coalition (CEIC). Before joining Circle Economy, he gained experience in business consulting and development in the DACH area (Germany, Austria and Switzerland). As freelancer he also gained years of experience in the electronic equipment (waste) sector. Marvin holds an MSc in political economy from the Universiteit van Amsterdam and a BSc in business economics.
Director
Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, the Netherlands
Marieke Spijkerboer is responsible for circular economy policy as well as for air quality and sustainability policy. She has studied econometrics at the University of Amsterdam,
Karin Isaksson has 30+ years’ experience in international finance and expansion, mainly in emerging markets and the private sector. Before joining NDF in August 2019, she served for three years as executive director of the African Development Bank, representing the constituency of Denmark, Finland, India, Norway and Sweden. She has also held the position of vice president at Business Sweden (the Swedish trade and investment promotion agency) and director positions at Swedfund (the Swedish bilateral DFI), as well as positions in Swedish export credit agencies. In her first three years as MD, NDF has implemented a new strategy and closed a capital increase of €350 million from its five member states. Supported by some organisational fine-tuning, including new recruitments, the strengthened capital base will enable NDF to expand the annual work programme by approximately 50 per cent.
Director, Climate Change and Green Growth
African Development Bank
Anthony Nyong has extensive managerial experience in the environment, circular economy, climate change and green growth. He holds a PhD in geography from McMaster University, Canada. Nyong has served on the advisory board of the World Economic Forum on the circular economy, as well as on the Platform for Accelerating Circular Economy (PACE) leadership group. He was listed among the top 20 leaders in climate change by Apolitica in 2019 and again in 2022/2023.
Global reality on the ground: What does action look like?
Ilektra Kouloumpi
Thrive Lead
Circle Economy
llektra Kouloumpi helps cities and businesses to thrive within the planetary boundaries. The Thrive programme draws from circular and regenerative economy theories to help different groups implement holistic circular economy strategies. Prior to this, Ilektra has led the Circle City Scans team at Circle Economy, working with cities in Europe, USA and Asia, while she has been co-ordinating the overall academy and training offerings of the organisation. Previously, Ilektra worked as a senior researcher at the Smart & Sustainable Urbanism department of TU Berlin, as an engineer and buildings designer at Arup, and as a policy analyst at the Buildings Performance Institute of Europe in Brussels. A fond lover of people and groups working creatively and deeply curious about new ways of living in harmony with nature, Ilektra has designed and led participatory processes for changemakers in multiple countries across the world. She often lectures and presents at conferences, universities and international events about new economic models that make people and planet thrive.
Marvin leads Circle Economy's work on the international financial institutions' circular economy transition. His expertise lies in developing strategic solutions around financing challenges and measuring the circular economy. He also leads the research and development on circular indicators and metrics as secretariat member of the Circular Economy Indicator Coalition (CEIC). Before joining Circle Economy, he gained experience in business consulting and development in the DACH area (Germany, Austria and Switzerland). As freelancer he also gained years of experience in the electronic equipment (waste) sector. Marvin holds an MSc in political economy from the Universiteit van Amsterdam and a BSc in business economics.
Pranshu is the Founder of Karo Sambhav, which was founded in 2017 with the aim of making the circular economy possible. The company has created a robust India-wide solution on collection, recycling and secondary material management of e-waste, plastics, batteries and glass waste. They are also exploring new sectors including solar waste, mattresses, textiles and tyres. Their technology platform and systems foster good governance, fairness, trust, transparency and traceability. Prior to Karo Sambhav, Pranshu was in the worldwide education team of Microsoft for 3 years. He had worked with Nokia as head of sustainability for 11 years, based in Finland, Singapore and India. He was conferred the ‘Social Entrepreneur of the Year 2021 India’ award by the Schwab Foundation. He is a Fellow with Aspen, Ashoka, Chevening Gurukul, Ikea and Aspire Circle. Pranshu has a Master’s in environmental management and policy from IIIEE in Sweden.
Director of Sustainable Business and MSME
IDB Invest
Paula Pelaez leads a team within the advisory services division supporting IDB Invest’s clients. She helps integrate sustainability and circularity into strategy and operations, supports sustainability in financial instruments, and fosters the inclusion of vulnerable populations and MSMEs in value chains. Paula has over 20 years’ experience working at the intersection of private sector and development. She joined IDB Invest from UNDP, where she was head of the Business Call to Action – a leading global platform advancing inclusive business and its contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals. Prior, Paula worked in New York for Business for Social Responsibility advising global corporations on issues including sustainable sourcing, business and human rights and sustainability strategy. She has worked with CARE Canada and Aga Khan Foundation on value chain development, impact investing and microfinance. She is currently based in Washington DC and has lived and worked in Turkey, Kenya, Mozambique, Costa Rica, Colombia and Bangladesh. Paula began her career working with Grupo Aval in her home country Colombia. She has an MSc in environmental studies from York University, Canada, and a BSc in industrial engineering from Universidad de los Andes, Colombia.
Minister for the Environment, the Netherlands
Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management
Vivianne Heijnen was appointed Minister for the Environment on 10 January 2022. Between 2009 and 2018 she was head of the Maastricht University Campus in Brussels. In 2018, she became a member of the Maastricht municipal executive with responsibility for the economy, housing, regional policy and social innovation. Heijnen was born on 8 October 1982 in Spaubeek. When asked about what motivates her as a minister, she says: “I want the Netherlands to be a country that is liveable and accessible for everyone and where we reuse more. I’m committed to reducing travel time in a sustainable way, with a particular focus on border regions, cities and our neighbouring countries.”
Marvin leads Circle Economy's work on the international financial institutions' circular economy transition. His expertise lies in developing strategic solutions around financing challenges and measuring the circular economy. He also leads the research and development on circular indicators and metrics as secretariat member of the Circular Economy Indicator Coalition (CEIC). Before joining Circle Economy, he gained experience in business consulting and development in the DACH area (Germany, Austria and Switzerland). As freelancer he also gained years of experience in the electronic equipment (waste) sector. Marvin holds an MSc in political economy from the Universiteit van Amsterdam and a BSc in business economics.
llektra Kouloumpi helps cities and businesses to thrive within the planetary boundaries. The Thrive programme draws from circular and regenerative economy theories to help different groups implement holistic circular economy strategies. Prior to this, Ilektra has led the Circle City Scans team at Circle Economy, working with cities in Europe, USA and Asia, while she has been co-ordinating the overall academy and training offerings of the organisation. Previously, Ilektra worked as a senior researcher at the Smart & Sustainable Urbanism department of TU Berlin, as an engineer and buildings designer at Arup, and as a policy analyst at the Buildings Performance Institute of Europe in Brussels. A fond lover of people and groups working creatively and deeply curious about new ways of living in harmony with nature, Ilektra has designed and led participatory processes for changemakers in multiple countries across the world. She often lectures and presents at conferences, universities and international events about new economic models that make people and planet thrive.
Director
Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, the Netherlands
Marieke Spijkerboer is responsible for circular economy policy as well as for air quality and sustainability policy. She has studied econometrics at the University of Amsterdam,
Director of Sustainable Business and MSME
IDB Invest
Paula Pelaez leads a team within the advisory services division supporting IDB Invest’s clients. She helps integrate sustainability and circularity into strategy and operations, supports sustainability in financial instruments, and fosters the inclusion of vulnerable populations and MSMEs in value chains. Paula has over 20 years’ experience working at the intersection of private sector and development. She joined IDB Invest from UNDP, where she was head of the Business Call to Action – a leading global platform advancing inclusive business and its contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals. Prior, Paula worked in New York for Business for Social Responsibility advising global corporations on issues including sustainable sourcing, business and human rights and sustainability strategy. She has worked with CARE Canada and Aga Khan Foundation on value chain development, impact investing and microfinance. She is currently based in Washington DC and has lived and worked in Turkey, Kenya, Mozambique, Costa Rica, Colombia and Bangladesh. Paula began her career working with Grupo Aval in her home country Colombia. She has an MSc in environmental studies from York University, Canada, and a BSc in industrial engineering from Universidad de los Andes, Colombia.
Minister for the Environment, the Netherlands
Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management
Vivianne Heijnen was appointed Minister for the Environment on 10 January 2022. Between 2009 and 2018 she was head of the Maastricht University Campus in Brussels. In 2018, she became a member of the Maastricht municipal executive with responsibility for the economy, housing, regional policy and social innovation. Heijnen was born on 8 October 1982 in Spaubeek. When asked about what motivates her as a minister, she says: “I want the Netherlands to be a country that is liveable and accessible for everyone and where we reuse more. I’m committed to reducing travel time in a sustainable way, with a particular focus on border regions, cities and our neighbouring countries.”
Karin Isaksson has 30+ years’ experience in international finance and expansion, mainly in emerging markets and the private sector. Before joining NDF in August 2019, she served for three years as executive director of the African Development Bank, representing the constituency of Denmark, Finland, India, Norway and Sweden. She has also held the position of vice president at Business Sweden (the Swedish trade and investment promotion agency) and director positions at Swedfund (the Swedish bilateral DFI), as well as positions in Swedish export credit agencies. In her first three years as MD, NDF has implemented a new strategy and closed a capital increase of €350 million from its five member states. Supported by some organisational fine-tuning, including new recruitments, the strengthened capital base will enable NDF to expand the annual work programme by approximately 50 per cent.
llektra Kouloumpi helps cities and businesses to thrive within the planetary boundaries. The Thrive programme draws from circular and regenerative economy theories to help different groups implement holistic circular economy strategies. Prior to this, Ilektra has led the Circle City Scans team at Circle Economy, working with cities in Europe, USA and Asia, while she has been co-ordinating the overall academy and training offerings of the organisation. Previously, Ilektra worked as a senior researcher at the Smart & Sustainable Urbanism department of TU Berlin, as an engineer and buildings designer at Arup, and as a policy analyst at the Buildings Performance Institute of Europe in Brussels. A fond lover of people and groups working creatively and deeply curious about new ways of living in harmony with nature, Ilektra has designed and led participatory processes for changemakers in multiple countries across the world. She often lectures and presents at conferences, universities and international events about new economic models that make people and planet thrive.
Marvin leads Circle Economy's work on the international financial institutions' circular economy transition. His expertise lies in developing strategic solutions around financing challenges and measuring the circular economy. He also leads the research and development on circular indicators and metrics as secretariat member of the Circular Economy Indicator Coalition (CEIC). Before joining Circle Economy, he gained experience in business consulting and development in the DACH area (Germany, Austria and Switzerland). As freelancer he also gained years of experience in the electronic equipment (waste) sector. Marvin holds an MSc in political economy from the Universiteit van Amsterdam and a BSc in business economics.
Director, Climate Change and Green Growth
African Development Bank
Anthony Nyong has extensive managerial experience in the environment, circular economy, climate change and green growth. He holds a PhD in geography from McMaster University, Canada. Nyong has served on the advisory board of the World Economic Forum on the circular economy, as well as on the Platform for Accelerating Circular Economy (PACE) leadership group. He was listed among the top 20 leaders in climate change by Apolitica in 2019 and again in 2022/2023.
Nicola Pochettino is director of the environment and natural resources department at the European Investment Bank (EIB) in Luxembourg, covering the circular economy, water and bioeconomy. Prior to joining the EIB, he worked at the International Energy Agency in Paris and in various positions in the financial sector and the energy industry, both in Italy and the UK. Nicola is a CFA charter holder; he holds an MSc in nuclear engineering from the Polytechnic of Turin and a Master's in economics and management of energy and the environment.
Pranshu is the Founder of Karo Sambhav, which was founded in 2017 with the aim of making the circular economy possible. The company has created a robust India-wide solution on collection, recycling and secondary material management of e-waste, plastics, batteries and glass waste. They are also exploring new sectors including solar waste, mattresses, textiles and tyres. Their technology platform and systems foster good governance, fairness, trust, transparency and traceability. Prior to Karo Sambhav, Pranshu was in the worldwide education team of Microsoft for 3 years. He had worked with Nokia as head of sustainability for 11 years, based in Finland, Singapore and India. He was conferred the ‘Social Entrepreneur of the Year 2021 India’ award by the Schwab Foundation. He is a Fellow with Aspen, Ashoka, Chevening Gurukul, Ikea and Aspire Circle. Pranshu has a Master’s in environmental management and policy from IIIEE in Sweden.