Connie Hedegaard, a renowned Danish politician, climate advocate, and public intellectual, is widely recognised for her dedication to environmental sustainability and global climate policy. As a highly respected keynote speaker, she brings her vast expertise from both national and international platforms. Her most notable achievement is serving as the first-ever European Commissioner for Climate Action from 2010 to 2014, where she helped shape the EU’s environmental agenda for the 21st century.
Connie’s early career began with an impressive entry into politics at just 23 years old, when she was elected as the youngest-ever member of the Danish parliament. She holds an MA in Literature and History from the University of Copenhagen, and after her initial stint in politics, she pursued a career in journalism. Working for prestigious outlets such as Berlingske Tidende and Danish Radio News (DR), she sharpened her ability to communicate complex issues clearly and compellingly – skills she later utilised to advocate for climate action on the global stage.
Throughout her career, Connie has amassed an impressive array of achievements. She was instrumental in leading the 2009 UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, a significant milestone in global climate negotiations. As Denmark's Minister for Climate and Energy, she introduced ambitious policies, making Denmark the first country to commit to an overall reduction in energy use. Her work at the European Commission focused on developing and implementing the EU’s Emission Trading Scheme, promoting renewable energy, and championing international carbon trading.
Connie Hedegaard’s expertise and accomplishments make her a compelling keynote speaker for organisations committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. She offers insightful perspectives on topics such as the transition to renewable energy, sustainable economic growth, and the impact of international climate negotiations. Her experience in both politics and corporate sustainability ensures that her speeches are relevant, practical, and inspiring for diverse audiences, from policymakers to business leaders.
How to hire Connie Hedegaard
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Connie Hedegaard for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
Connie Hedegaard's official speaker topics are listed below:
- Climate change and global climate negotiations
- Renewable energy and sustainable technologies
- Green economy and sustainable development
- Corporate sustainability and environmental responsibility
- Energy efficiency and low-carbon technologies
- International policy on climate adaptation and mitigation
- Leadership in climate action and public policy
- European Union environmental policy and Emission Trading Schemes
- 2023 – Member of the European Investment Bank Climate and Environment Advisory Council
- 2021 – Appointed Member of the European Investment Bank Climate and Environment Advisory Council
- 2016 – Member of Volkswagen’s Sustainability Council
- 2010-2014 – European Commissioner for Climate Action
- 2009 – Host of the UN Climate Change Conference, Copenhagen
- 2007 – Danish Minister for Climate and Energy
- 2005 – Danish Minister for Nordic Cooperation
- 2004 – Danish Minister for the Environment
- 1984 – Elected as youngest member of the Danish parliament (Folketing)
