Gunter Pauli

Gunter Pauli is a trailblazer in sustainable design and innovative business models that prioritise health and environmental harmony. His journey began with building the first ecological factory as Chairman and CEO of Ecover in 1992, a pivotal step in his commitment to zero emissions. He then founded the ZERI Foundation (Zero Emissions Research & Initiatives), bringing together a global network of creative minds to develop and implement nearly 200 projects, such as recycling coffee waste for mushroom farming and creating biodegradable detergents from discarded citrus peel.

As an advisor to the United Nations, Pauli has significantly influenced sustainable business practices and future business models. His influential book, “The Blue Economy,” encapsulates his philosophy and has been translated into over 50 languages, marking a milestone in the discourse on sustainable development. His visionary approach was highlighted at the World Expo 2000 in Germany, where he constructed the largest bamboo pavilion ever made.

Pauli’s extensive contributions extend to academia, where he has served as a visiting lecturer and professor on all continents, and to governance, where he has advised the United Nations University in Tokyo and several NGOs and private companies globally. His work in Bhutan, designing an economic development concept based on Gross National Happiness (GNH), showcases his innovative approach to economic strategy.

A prolific author, Pauli has written around 23 books, printed in 46 languages, and 125 fables for children, blending science and emotion to educate and inspire the younger generation. Born in Antwerp, Belgium, he graduated in economics from the University of Antwerp and holds an MBA from INSEAD. Fluent in seven languages, Gunter Pauli is now continuing his lifelong mission to create value from what is locally available and implement breakthrough innovations that address basic human needs.