Tom Rivett-Carnac

Co-Founder of Global Optimism, Host of the Optimist + Outrage Climate Podcast & Former Senior Advisor to the Executive Secretary of the UNFCC

  • Appointed OBE for Services to Tackling Climate Change
  • Author of “When We All Stopped” & Co-Author of “The Future We Choose”
  • Architect of the Paris Agreement
  • Co-Founder of the Climate Pledge
  • Member of the Expert Review Panel of the Earthshot Prize

Discover Tom Rivett-Carnac’s biography of published work below.

The Future We Choose Tom Rivett Carnac
The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis
When We All Stopped Tom Rivett Carnac
When We All Stopped

Tom Rivett-Carnac stands as one of the most influential voices in sustainability today, earning global recognition for his transformative contributions to environmental conservation and climate action. As a pivotal figure in this field, Tom has established himself as a beacon of enlightenment and action through his foundational work as a political lobbyist and adviser to former United Nations Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres. His extensive background, including his notable role as the Co-Founder of Global Optimism, underscores his commitment to sustainability, making him a highly sought-after speaker renowned for insightful discussions on topics like environmental policy, ESG, and renewable energy.

Tom’s dedication to practical, solution-driven strategies has made him instrumental in guiding businesses toward their carbon-neutral goals, all through his advocacy for actionable change. His concept of “stubborn optimism” encourages a re-evaluation of systemic dependencies, especially fossil fuels, that contribute to the climate crisis. His TED Talk “How to Shift Your Mindset & Choose Your Future” explains more about this concept. With the ambitious goal of achieving carbon net zero by 2050, Tom works tirelessly alongside global leaders to mitigate the damaging effects of climate change. His tenure as Senior Advisor to the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change was a landmark period in driving forward political resolutions with a sustainability focus, particularly his role in shaping the historic Paris Agreement in 2015—a testament to his dedication to a sustainable future.

Tom’s multi-faceted approach to climate advocacy is evident through his wide array of influential roles, from President and CEO of CDP North America to Co-Founder of the Climate Pledge. As a Fellow of the Bezos Earth Fund and a Senior Fellow at Stanford Law School, he brings a uniquely broad perspective enriched by his extensive knowledge and experience. His authorship, including the acclaimed “The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis,” further cements his authority in the field.

Tom’s collaborations, such as his advisory roles with the Global Impact Investment Network and the NY Stock Exchange, underscore his wide-reaching impact in shaping international environmental discourse. Merging his academic expertise in Environmental Economics and Systems Science with his professional background, he delivers powerful, nuanced speeches on sustainability that resonate with a wide audience. His talks not only reflect his passion but serve as catalysts for tangible change, equipping audiences with the tools they need to make sustainable decisions crucial for the planet’s future. His Optimism + Outrage Climate Podcast touches upon politics, world affairs and their implications on the climate and environment. He is also the Strategy Advisor for the Earthshot Prize – a result of his over 20 year long illustrious career in climate and ecological crises.

By inviting Tom Rivett-Carnac to speak at your event, you bring in a distinguished sustainability expert whose insights are essential for navigating the complex journey toward environmental stewardship. His presence inspires transformational change, bridging diverse perspectives and unifying audiences in the collective fight against climate change. Tom’s honest dialogue about climate-related risks encourages transparent disclosure, helping companies reassess their environmental footprints and driving meaningful action. Happy clients from his speaking engagements have awarded him a 9.8/10 rating as a sustainability expert speaker. In every speech, Tom Rivett-Carnac delivers more than expertise—he offers a vision and a roadmap for a sustainable future, making him the ideal choice for your next event.

To enquire about Tom Rivett-Carnac for your event or corporate function, simply contact us via agent@sustainability-speakers.com or call a booking agent on 0207 1010 553.