In our latest Scholar Spotlight, @Oliver Pugh, a Laidlaw Scholar at @Durham University, shared his research on creating sustainable supercapacitors from food waste. In discussing his work, Oliver expressed his admiration for Dr. Christiana Figueres, applauding her leadership in driving the Paris Agreement and her influential role in global climate advocacy.

This week, we reflect on Figueres’ perspective on the power of mindset in driving change:

A Trailblazer in Climate Action

Born on August 7, 1956, in San José, Costa Rica, Dr. Christiana Figueres has been a powerful force in global climate diplomacy and sustainable development. A diplomat and environmental leader, Figueres served as the Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) from 2010 to 2016, where she led the historic negotiations that culminated in the 2015 Paris Agreement. This landmark accord brought together 196 countries to commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and limiting global warming to below 2°C, with efforts to limit the increase to 1.5°C.

Beyond her role at the UNFCCC, Figueres has held various influential positions, including Vice President of the Bureau of Climate Change Convention, Director of Renewable Energy in the Americas (REIA), and founder of the Centre for Sustainable Development of the Americas (CSDA). Her leadership has been recognized globally; she was awarded the Grand Cross of the Order of Isabella the Catholic by the King of Spain, among other accolades. Figueres is celebrated for her ability to bring nations together, fostering collaboration, and driving forward climate action with an unwavering belief in what she calls “stubborn optimism.”

Leadership Grounded in Optimism and Persistence

Figueres’ leadership philosophy is rooted in the idea that meaningful progress requires both relentless optimism and the ability to inspire others. Her work demonstrates that tackling enormous global challenges like climate change requires a steadfast belief that solutions are possible, even in the face of setbacks. This approach aligns closely with the journey of scholars like Oliver Pugh, who, inspired by Figueres, are developing creative solutions to our most pressing environmental challenges. By turning potato peelings into sustainable supercapacitors, Oliver’s work embodies this spirit of transformative innovation and hope for a greener future.

Connecting to Laidlaw Values

Dr. Figueres’ “stubborn optimism” and Oliver’s innovative research both resonate with the Laidlaw values of being #Brave and #Extraordinary. Being brave means tackling the toughest problems with hope and determination, while being extraordinary involves pushing boundaries and creating solutions that make a difference.

A Call to Reflect

As Laidlaw Scholars, how can we embrace “stubborn optimism” in our own leadership journeys? What drives us to fight for a better future, and how can we inspire others to do the same? Let’s continue to champion solutions that bring us closer to a more sustainable and equitable world.