Speakers

Michael joined DEG – Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH in October 2022 as Climate Team Leader within the Sustainability Department. He supports the implementation of DEG’s comprehensive impact.climate.returns strategy, aiming for net-zero by 2040. With over 20 years of experience, he has led research and advisory projects in more than 60 countries across five continents. His expertise spans global net-zero transformation, GHG balancing, and strategy development. Prior to DEG, he was a senior lecturer and researcher at a leading German think tank focused on urban and industrial transformation. As an external advisor to DEG, he conducted resource and energy efficiency checks and supported clients in their climate transition. He has lectured on international climate policy and sustainability management at universities in Germany, Japan, China, Brazil, and Mexico. Michael is a graduated environmental economist and holds an interdisciplinary PhD in environmental science from the University of Limerick.

DEG

DEG – Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH is a leading European development finance institution and part of the KfW Banking Group, a AAA-rated German financial institution. DEG provides long-term financing and advisory services to private enterprises in developing and emerging markets, supporting sustainable economic growth and job creation. Its financing instruments include debt, mezzanine, and equity, tailored to the needs of businesses across sectors such as infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, agribusiness, and financial services. DEG operates in over 80 countries, with a portfolio exceeding €11 billion. In 2024 alone, it committed €2.5 billion in new investments. DEG plays a key role in mobilizing private capital for impactful development, guided by its strategic focus on impact, climate, and returns. Through its partnerships and expertise, DEG contributes to the global transformation toward inclusive, climate-resilient economies.