Club Climate Europe
About us
About us
Club Climate Europe is the international platform of climate analysts, educators, policy makers, and capacity builders.
The group follows the work, which started in the summer of 2021 while preparing the Horizon Europe applications for Integrated Assessment Models. The Club went through a few stages of development, starting from the informal discussion platform “Club Climate Alfa”, launched in January 2022.
The members represent different expertise including experience in governmental and non-governmental organizations, international development institutions, academia, investment banking, corporations, and consulting. With expertise ranging from integrated assessment modeling to investment banking, from academia to NGOs, and from computer science to social science, our group is well positioned to come up with innovative solutions, civil actions, educational courses, policy proposals, and other initiatives.
We are the Club, what means that we have core team and core activities, coming form diverse areas, depending form the needs of climate and winds of change. But we are ever ever-evolving organization, welcoming new areas of activities and new team members. We are an open and public good-oriented organization.
At the same time, we value integrity, commitment, ethics, and excellence. We are a diverse, non-discriminatory, and flexible group, able to operate in highly complex environments.
Our mission
The mission of the Initiative is to foster the global climate and energy transition for a carbon emissions-neutral world, while also contributing to biodiversity loss, circular economy, digital transition, sustainability, geopolitics, socio-economic development of the countries, equality, inclusiveness, promotion of diversity, peace, and democracy.
CCE aims to promote a new development paradigm of the green transition based on a deep understanding of environmental regulation and climate policy as a catalyst for a societal transition towards a higher steady-state, socioeconomic growth trajectory. Moreover, it will offer guidance on climate technologies, to which countries, regions, and even companies need to focus on, having technological neutrality in mind.
CCE with its areas of work, aims at expanding the public policy domain, given support to EU institutions, COP30 in Brazil, G7, G20, World Economic Forum and Munich Security Conference, countries, regions, public institutions, and public-private partnerships, non-profit, academic, and private sector working for societies, following environment and people-first approach.
Club Climate Europe is dedicated to advancing knowledge and fostering leadership to create equitable and just solutions to the evolving climate and sustainability challenges. As an inclusive policy making, capacity building, research and educational platform, we aim to equip leaders, policymakers, diplomats, business professionals, and civil society with the expertise and tools needed to address the complexities of climate change and sustainability.
By integrating education, research, and collaboration, CCE endeavors to empower participants with critical, creative, and diplomatic skills for tackling the challenges. Our program connects stakeholders from across the globe, fostering partnerships that drive innovation in green technology, climate finance, and sustainable policymaking.
Through an interdisciplinary approach, we strive to shape a new generation of leaders, capable of influencing and implementing meaningful action at both local and global levels. CCE stands as a bridge between academic theory and practical applications, inspiring a community of climate advocates committed to achieving a sustainable and resilient future.
The Club welcomes interns from all over the World on an ongoing basis to add to our project writing and outreach. You will stay engaged and excited. Please send your CV for the interview.
Heidi Kuhn
Acting President
Heidi Kuhn, Founder and CEO of Roots of Peace, has transformed war-torn lands into flourishing agricultural communities, benefiting over 1 million farmers and families across eight countries. With more than 26 years in humanitarian and media work, she has notably increased Afghanistan’s agricultural exports from $250 million in 2014 to $1.4 billion in 2020, fostering jobs and income for rural communities.Heidi’s leadership at Roots of Peace has earned her numerous prestigious awards, including:
-The World Food Prize Laureate (2023) for her contributions to food security and agricultural development.
-The Mother Teresa Award for Social Justice (2023), recognizing her efforts in uplifting conflict-affected communities.
-The Gandhi Global Family Award (2019) for her commitment to peace and non-violence.
A Skoll Awardee for Social Entrepreneurship, Heidi is passionate about empowering families in conflict zones through economic opportunities and environmental stewardship. She continues to drive the mission of Roots of Peace with the support of her family and a global network of partners and donors, advocating for sustainable development and peace.
Prof. Angele Kedaitiene
Founder, Secretary General, Director of EU Relations
Dr. Angele Kedaitiene is an European Economist with a specialization. She has been working at the European Commission and European Parliament, also at the universities, national civil service, and consultancies. Today, she volunteers for the European Commission as European Climate Pact ambassador, and is the Secretary-General of the platform, also charged with EU affairs.
Angele has a doctoral degree in environmental statistics and two master’s degrees from University College Dublin and Vilnius University. Over her life career, she has been a DAAD scholar at Bonn University and researched at Copenhagen Business School under the Nordic Council and Danish Government grants. She is author/co-author of four books and numerous articles. Angele speaks her native Lithuanian, also English, French, and some German and Italian.
Director of climate investments and business sustainability
Vacant
Dr. Robert Piret
Director of Climate data and education
Robert Piret is educated in the United States and has spent his entire professional career between North America and Europe.
Dr. Piret has lectured extensively and has been a Speaker on both Continents on Strategy, Organization, International Business and Cross-Cultural Management, Corporate Development and Entrepreneurship and Motion Picture/TV production and Management. In addition, Dr. Piret has over 40 years of experience as a Management Consultant and Executive Coach in the US and in Europe, specializing in strategic and organizational issues in technology-intensive areas. Recently, he lives in France with MIT – France Foundation.
Samuele Bennici
Director of Environmental Fund for Ukraine
Samuele’s well-travelled path has shaped his holistic approach to life. His experiences in the Arab world during his tenure at the International Institute for Finance and Entrepreneurship enriched his understanding of finance, entrepreneurship and cultural dynamics.
Since 2012, Samuele has also dedicated himself to social work, assisting underprivileged families in Brussels with housing solutions. His empathy and commitment to positive change are evident in his transformation into a positive impact entrepreneur.
As the Founder & CEO of Pay4Climate, Samuele brings a unique blend of financial expertise and blockchain innovation to the table. His vision is clear: to create a better world by aligning financial systems with sustainability goals. This experience directly informs his new roles with the Club Climate Europe and the Environmental Fund for Ukraine, where he will drive meaningful change and advocate for environmental impact.
Vikram Basyal
Director green growth
Vikram Basyal is a highly motivated professional with a strong background in environment and climate change policy and finance. He possesses demonstrated expertise in green growth planning, climate adaptation, and mitigation strategies, sustainable energy, and landscapes. Mr. Basyal has a proven track record in successful program management, project administration, resource mobilization, and engagement with high-level government bodies. He also boasts experience in designing NDC targets and developing implementation plans. Furthermore, he excels in project design and is skilled at cultivating productive relationships with government and international organizations. Mr. Basyal is deeply committed to driving positive change and contributing to the advancement of sustainable solutions in the realms of climate change and development, particularly in developing countries.
His experience extends to collaboration with intergovernmental organizations, multilateral development banks, INGOs, NGOs, and the private sector. He holds a master’s degree in Environmental Science and a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Protection Law from India.
Sakshi M Krishna
Director for Climate Justice & Youth
Sakshi M Krishna is a seasoned advocate for youth empowerment and global climate action with extensive experience in youth mobilization and international climate negotiations. She has represented and engaged communities at prestigious global platforms, including CBD COP15, CBD COP16, IPBES, and UNFCCC COP29, demonstrating her deep understanding of complex environmental policies and negotiations.
As a dedicated youth advocate, Sakshi has worked on amplifying the voices of young people in international decision-making processes, fostering collaboration across diverse regions, and driving transformative environmental actions. Her ability to align global climate goals with grassroots advocacy has consistently led to impactful initiatives, empowering thousands of young leaders to champion climate justice and sustainable development.
With a strong background in creating inclusive strategies and facilitating large-scale discussions, Sakshi excels in bridging the gap between global climate policies and local community needs, making her a driving force in the movement for a more equitable and resilient future.
Arti Kabra
Director Climate Startups and Fundraising
Arti Kabra is a seasoned professional with expertise in Communications, Waste Management, Eco-friendly packaging and climate-action initiatives. In the realm of communications, she excels at conveying complex ideas with clarity, particularly in the context of environmental advocacy. As a leader in the circular economy, she spearheads sustainable waste reduction and recycling initiatives, minimizing environmental impact. Her contribution in to sustainable packaging have resulted in innovative, environmentally responsible packaging solutions adopted by various industries. She is a driving force in the development and promotion of ReshaCelium, a startup producing eco-conscious products.
Patrick Dunn
Director of Strategy
Patrick Dunn (he/him) is a purpose-driven advisor, speaker, and founder of Paxaterra Global, a consultancy focused on climate leadership, global cooperation, and regenerative systems. With more than two decades of experience in sustainability strategy, public-private partnerships, and civic leadership, Patrick brings a unique ability to bridge policy, culture, and systems thinking.
He holds a degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Maine and has completed postgraduate work in regenerative agriculture, grounding his approach in nature-based solutions and climate-resilient development. Patrick serves in leadership roles across civic, philanthropic, and peacebuilding networks, advancing equity-centered climate action and multi-sector collaboration. His experience includes providing strategic oversight and financial governance to support organizational growth and effectiveness in these roles.
His work has engaged partners and communities across Europe and the Global South, with a focus on climate justice, cooperation, and shared leadership. He has led global disaster response programs that integrate technology, logistics, and systems coordination to support frontline resilience in the face of climate-related emergencies. Patrick brings cross-cultural fluency and a proven ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments to support globally aligned climate solutions.
Based in the U.S. with an international footprint, Patrick is committed to advancing bold, inclusive, and imaginative responses to the climate crisis through multi-stakeholder collaboration and values-aligned leadership.
Advisory Board
Dr. Peter Hefele
Head of the Advisory Board
Dr Peter Hefele finished his PhD Studies in Economics and Economic History in 1997 at the Catholic University Eichstätt-Ingolstadt (Germany). He worked as an economic researcher at the Institute for Economy and Society in Bonn and joined the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) in 2003 as Head of the Department of Economic Education. In 2006 he became Head of Division China, South East Asia, India / Team Asia and the Pacific at KAS in Berlin (Germany).
From December 2010 to February 2015, he worked as Director of the China Office of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung in Shanghai. From March 2015 till April 2019 he was Director of the Regional Project “Energy Security and Climate Change” (RECAP), based in Hong Kong SAR / PR China. From May 2019 to November 2021, he was Director of the Department Asia and the Pacific at KAS in Berlin. Since then, he has served as the Martens Centre’s Policy Director.
His main fields of expertise are economic policy, international development cooperation and energy/climate policy. He is an expert on political, economic and social developments in Asia and China. He is fluent in German, English and Hungarian, has good command in French and Italian and basic knowledge in Chinese.
H.E. Ambassador Vaqif Sadyqov
Member of Advisory Board
Vaqif Sadıqov is an Azerbaijani diplomat currently serving as Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the European Union.
He joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1992 and became the head of the political-military affairs division from 1993 to 1995 when he was appointed Azerbaijan's Ambassador to Austria, and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office at Vienna, UNIDO, and OSCE. He served as Permanent Representative to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization from 1998 to 2004, and to the International Atomic Energy Agency from 2001 to 2004.
Vaqif Sadıqov was appointed Deputy Foreign Minister in 2004 with a portfolio covering Azerbaijan’s relations with the UNESCO and the Organization of the Islamic Conference. ln 2010, he was appointed Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Italy and served simultaneously as Permanent Representative to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, World Food Programme, International Fund for Agricultural Development based in Rome. In 2016 – 2021, he served as Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office at Geneva.
Prof. Edward Saltzberg
Member of Advisory Board
Initially trained as an engineer, Ed’s passion has always been education. In the late 1960s, shortly after Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring” hit the bookstores, he developed a high school environmental science course while teaching math and physics at a Boston preparatory school. That experience led him to the University of Virginia to earn a doctorate in Environmental Sciences, the only place to get that degree in the 1970s. For the next few decades, he worked in industry and led environmental and energy analyses for federal and state agencies.
In 2009, he found his passion when he formed the Security and sustainability Forum to convene global experts in free webinars to educate sustainability decision-makers, practitioners and citizens on addressing the impacts to society from the degradation of natural systems. 250 webinars later, thousands of educators from around the Globe use SSF productions for curriculum enrichment, and professionals stay current on the most pressing security and sustainability challenges.
In addition to SSF, Ed leads the Professional Education Program at George Washington University’s Environmental and Energy Management Institute and is a partner in a new firm that helps Native American Tribes improve the wellbeing of their nations through resilient energy programs. Sound science and raising the level of understanding about the responsibility of living on Earth is what gets Ed motivated everyday.
Prof. Oliver Bahn
Member of the Advisory Board
Olivier Bahn holds an M.Sc. in Information Technology from the CNAM (France) and a Ph.D. in Management Science from the University of Geneva (Switzerland). Following his doctoral studies, he joined the Paul Scherrer Institute, a Swiss research center affiliated to the Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology, to lead several research projects on Swiss and European climate and energy policies. Since 2003, he has been a professor in the Department of Decision Sciences at HEC Montréal, where he was promoted to Full Professor in 2015 and chaired the department from June 2016 to May 2019. There he teaches graduate-level courses in management science. In addition to directing the Group for Research in Decision Analysis (GERAD, since June 2019), an inter-university research centre, he is also co-director of the e3c Hub (environment, energy and circular economy) at HEC Montréal (since June 2016). He serves as an Associate Editor of the journals Energies, Energy Strategy Reviews, and Environmental Modeling and Assessment. His research currently focuses on energy economics—particularly decarbonization—and climate policy modeling, with numerous publications in leading scientific journals. He is also a consultant for several companies, governments, and organizations.
Dr. Sami Rtimi
Honorary President, Member of Advisory Board
Sami is a photo-chemist with a strong background in surfaces engineering and microbiology. He was awarded a Ph.D. in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering from Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL, Switzerland) and a Doctorate in Biological Sciences from the University of Carthage (Tunisia). His expertise relates to the design, synthesis, evaluation and surface property characterization of antibacterial films for environmental and medical applications. His current research addresses coupling nanostructures for a targeted biological response at solid-air-interfaces showing potential practical applications. He published several papers in high impact journals in the field, numerous book chapters, patents and presented in several national and international conferences.
He is editor in some journals (Euro-Mediterranean Journal for Environmental Integration, Earth Systems and Environment…), edited some special issues (Applied Catalysis B: Environmental, MDPI-Coatings, Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces) and few books (Nanomaterials Based Coatings: Fundamentals and Applications, Elsevier 2018). He is member of many national (Swiss Chemical Society) and international societies / associations (ACS, RSC, EPS, IAAM). He was awarded some prizes for the transfer of science from lab to applications (PERL, VentureKick, MassChallenge…).
Elena Gomez
Member of Advisory Board
Elena Gomez Ortego is a Graduate from ESADE Executive Program for C-level Executive Managers.
She is an experienced visionary leader, coach and innovative professional, with proven wide international experience in different business sectors of Spain and internationally: Regional Ministry of Education, Town Hall, Law Firm.
With us, Elena is responsible for the most important areas i.e. climate entrepreneurship, which includes Environmental and Social Responsibility, EU Due Diligence Directive, Corporate Environmental Reporting, Start-ups Development and AI in Climate.
