Business & The Environment

Sir Tim Smit

Since it opened at the turn of the millennium, Eden has attracted millions of visitors and generated over £1bn for the local economy. Tim is now focusing on overseas projects, including plans to develop a giant botanical garden in an old industrial city in southern China. In his presentation Tim highlights the need to lead by example, to stick to principles but move out of your comfort zone, to meet challenges head on, and “to dare to be ambitious.”

Dr Gabrielle Walker

Gabrielle has dodged icebergs and pulled fresh lava from a volcano. She’s one of few strategists equipped to focus on the nexus between scientific, economic and political aspects of climate change, and how businesses achieve responsible resource-efficient growth. The ex-Princeton academic uncovers the latest research data and offers leadership tools to bring stakeholders and customers on board. She also explores how the circular economy affects investment, reputation and long-term risk.

Leo Johnson

Alongside his PwC role Leo presents the BBC’s Future Proofing and Hacking Capitalism. The only one of three Johnson brothers not to go into politics, he champions ‘good capitalism', bold leadership and partnerships with start-ups. Leo argues that disruptive events from pandemics to new technologies give us the opportunity (even the duty) to consider, with a new perspective, environmental, social and capital imbalances. The goal has to be inclusive growth and a 'triple bottom line'.