Suggestions
Laura Zizzo
Co-founder of Manifest Climate
Professional Background
Laura Zizzo is a dynamic leader and innovator who has dedicated her career to tackling the pressing climate crisis. With nearly two decades of experience in fostering organizational transition toward a low-carbon and climate-resilient future, she has carved a niche as a prominent voice in environmental law and climate strategy. As the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Manifest Climate, Laura drives the development of a cutting-edge climate intelligence platform designed to empower businesses with essential climate-related insights. Under her leadership, Manifest Climate launched a transformative software platform in 2020 that leverages advanced artificial intelligence technology to clarify and translate complex climate information into actionable strategies for organizations.
Beginning her career in a prestigious Bay Street law firm, Laura took significant strides in the legal domain by founding Canada’s first law firm focusing on climate change in 2009. This milestone not only underscored her commitment to environmental stewardship but also highlights her pioneering spirit in addressing climate-related challenges through legal expertise. She has served in a variety of roles, including as Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Manifest Climate, where she shaped corporate strategies to enhance climate risk management and compliance.
Laura's profound understanding of the interplay between climate science, business strategy, and legal frameworks has positioned her as a thought leader. Her influence extends through her prolific writing and speaking engagements, where she articulates critical insights on moving toward a low-carbon economy and the essential need for climate adaptation. She is particularly recognized for her ability to facilitate interdisciplinary team building and to foster innovation in corporate environments focused on sustainability.
Education and Achievements
Laura Zizzo holds a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree in Law from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Environmental Studies focused on Environment and Resource Studies from the University of Waterloo. Her educational background equips her with a robust foundation in both legal principles and environmental science, enabling her to effectively address complex climate-related challenges.
Throughout her career, Laura has undertaken various leadership positions that emphasize climate policy development and management. Notably, she has served as a mentor at the Creative Destruction Lab, where she fosters the next generation of leaders and innovators in climate and business. As a former partner at Zizzo Allan DeMarco LLP and Zizzo Allan Professional Corporation, Laura honed her legal expertise, particularly in liability issues related to climate change, climate disclosures, and international environmental law. Laura's firm academic foundation undergirds her significant contributions to the evolution of climate resilience practices in the corporate sector, showcasing how legal frameworks can support sustainability initiatives.
Laura's accolades and contributions to climate advocacy have established her reputation as a leader in climate resilience efforts. She actively participates in dialogues surrounding corporate accountability in environmental practices, contributing to the building of resilient frameworks through standard development and training.
Achievements
- Co-Founder and CEO of Manifest Climate: Pioneered the development of a climate intelligence platform that empowers businesses to understand and address their climate-related risks and opportunities.
- Launched a software platform in 2020 that utilizes advances in AI technology to streamline and clarify climate-related data for corporate decision-makers.
- Established the first Canadian law firm solely dedicated to climate change in 2009, positioning herself as a trailblazer in environmental law.
- Authored numerous articles and served as a speaker at climate-focused events to share insights on the transition to a low-carbon economy and the significance of climate adaptation.
- Served in various leadership roles that emphasize her expertise in climate risk management and training, contributing significantly to advancing the corporate sector’s approach to climate issues.
- Held mentorship roles fostering emerging leaders in climate innovation and sustainability practices, underscoring her commitment to developing diverse thought leadership in this essential field.
