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Transform organisations into circular economy leaders with Manuel Maqueda, speaker and regenerative economics expert. Manuel works with businesses to implement sustainable practices and climate solutions, delivering impactful insights for Google, NASA, and Harvard University.

Trusted by Santander, Uber, SalesForce, Dell Technologies, Google, NASA, Harvard University

Manuel Maqueda
Manuel Maqueda

Manuel Maqueda

Madrid, Spain

Typical fee range

€11k–25k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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Manuel Maqueda

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Madrid, Spain

Starting from

€11k–25k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

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+44 203 835 2929

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Manuel Maqueda's biography

At a glance

  • Expert in circular economy and plastic pollution
  • Co-founder of nonprofit SUPER for plastic elimination
  • Innovator in AI for climate solutions

Manuel Maqueda is an international teacher, speaker, and innovator dedicated to restoring the balance of living systems and addressing climate change. With a focus on circular and regenerative economics, he teaches Applied Circular Economics and Regenerative Economics at Harvard University and has developed courses at the University of California, Berkeley, and UCLA Extension. His expertise in these fields positions him as a leading voice in the movement towards sustainable practices.


Manuel co-founded several influential organisations, including the Plastic Pollution Coalition and SUPER, a nonprofit aimed at helping businesses eliminate single-use plastics through a structured certification programme. His commitment to tackling plastic pollution has earned him recognition as an expert in the field. As a member of the Strategic Foresight Board of the Circular Economy Alliance, he collaborates with forward-thinking organisations to promote long-term sustainability.


In addition to his work in circular economy, Manuel is exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence and regenerative practices. He co-founded Viento.ai, which leverages machine learning to develop proactive strategies for climate disaster response. This innovative approach highlights his belief in the potential of technology to support environmental goals.


Manuel's speaking engagements have reached a diverse array of clients, including Google, NASA, and LinkedIn, where he delivers thought-provoking insights that challenge conventional thinking. His style is engaging and inclusive, making complex topics accessible to a wide audience. With over a hundred international talks to his name, he has established a reputation for delivering memorable and empowering presentations that inspire action towards a more sustainable future.

Manuel's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

The Circular Economy Revolution: it's not what you think, but how you think

In his talk, Manuel Maqueda explores the often-misunderstood concept of the circular economy, highlighting its crucial role in business and ecological innovation. He aims to debunk common myths and provide attendees with essential insights on integrating circular thinking into their daily operations. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of circular economy principles and practical strategies to implement them effectively in their businesses.

Regenerative Economics: The Next Frontier For Sustainability

Manuel Maqueda will explore regenerative economics as the next frontier for sustainability. He will discuss how regenerative thinking goes beyond mere eco-efficiency and circular business models, offering a framework for exponential innovation and effective climate change mitigation. Attendees will gain actionable insights on overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities in this transformative transition, equipping them with the knowledge to embrace regeneration in their own practices.

The Future of Sustainability: are you ready for the disruption?

Manuel Maqueda will explore the future of sustainability and the impending disruptions it brings. He highlights that over 90% of economic value is lost within a year, contributing to waste. Attendees will gain actionable insights on navigating the challenges and seizing opportunities in the shift towards a circular and regenerative economy, a sector poised to generate trillions in value and millions of jobs. Participants will leave equipped with strategies to transform their business models effectively.

Will AI Destroy, or Save the World?

In his thought-provoking talk, Manuel Maqueda explores whether AI will ultimately destroy or save the world. He highlights how AI and related technologies can play crucial roles in addressing extreme weather, fostering regenerative businesses, and promoting circular economics. Attendees will gain actionable insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for both businesses and society, equipping them with the knowledge to harness AI for climate action and planetary regeneration.

Climate Action Fails: Simple but Wrong Wins Over Complicated but Right

Manuel Maqueda argues that mainstream climate change mitigation strategies, centred on decarbonising energy and transport, are destined to fail. He highlights three often-overlooked perspectives that can lead to more effective climate action for leaders, businesses, and governments. Attendees will learn how to rethink their approach to climate challenges, moving beyond conventional methods to embrace innovative solutions that can drive meaningful change.

Why we recommend booking Manuel

Book Manuel Maqueda to inspire your team with transformative insights on circular economy and sustainability. His engaging style and expertise will empower your organisation to tackle plastic pollution and innovate for a regenerative future.

Check Manuel's availability

Trusted by Santander, Uber, SalesForce, Dell Technologies, Google, NASA, Harvard University

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Manuel Maqueda for my next event?

To book Manuel Maqueda, email manuel.maqueda@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Manuel's availability and speaking fee. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and about your audience.

What is Manuel Maqueda's speaking style like?

Manuel Maqueda structures his talks around myth-busting and framework delivery, opening by challenging widely held assumptions about sustainability before presenting a tiered model that moves from circular economy principles through to regenerative economics, with each stage accompanied by data points and actionable strategies attendees can apply to their business models.

What topics does Manuel Maqueda specialise in?

Manuel Maqueda's sessions address circular economy principles, regenerative economics, and sustainability disruption. He teaches Applied Circular Economics and Regenerative Economics at Harvard University and has delivered over a hundred international talks to clients including Google, NASA, and LinkedIn.

Does PepTalk charge a booking fee?

No. PepTalk adds no booking fee, so you pay the speaker's fee and nothing beyond it. The service, from shortlist through to contracts and event-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, PepTalk can agree preferential rates with your procurement team.

What happens after I send a brief?

Share your event date, audience, format, objectives and budget, and PepTalk sends a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours. Each suggestion comes with a profile, a fee and a recommendation on the strongest fit. Once you choose, PepTalk handles contracts, travel and logistics through to event day.

What does the typical fee range mean?

The typical fee range is the speaker's standard in-person fee in their home market, shown in their local currency. It moves with format, location, date and session length: virtual sessions and shorter slots usually cost less, while international travel and peak dates cost more. Send your brief to PepTalk and the team will confirm the exact fee in your currency.

Have all the speakers on the website worked with PepTalk before?

Not all of them, and it makes no difference to your booking. PepTalk's network of 15,000+ speakers covers talent the team works with directly alongside speakers represented by agents and agencies worldwide. PepTalk approaches the speaker, negotiates the fee and handles contracting either way.

How far in advance should I book a speaker?

Three to six months ahead is comfortable for most events, and 12 months is better for large conferences, peak-season dates or one specific in-demand speaker. Shorter timelines are workable, and PepTalk regularly fills last-minute and replacement bookings within days. Availability is the constraint, so get in touch as soon as you have a date.