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Circular economy & climate speaker

Manuel Maqueda

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, Speaker | Innovator in Circular Economy
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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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?
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 fees. 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 a bit 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.
Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

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Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

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Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

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Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

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Help, I need a last-minute speaker for my event!

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