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Kristen Siemen

Moderator: Fomer Chief Sustainability Officer, GM
About Kristen: Former Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer at General Motors, Kristen spearheaded GM’s global sustainability and facility initiatives, guiding the company toward a zero-emissions future with a goal of carbon neutrality by 2040. Kristen prioritized efficiency improvements and value growth while integrating sustainability across all business operations. Kristen leadership led to significant strides in energy and water efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable materials. Under my direction, GM achieved its goal of being powered by 100% renewable energy in the U.S. by 2025 and globally by 2035, and earned numerous recognitions for our sustainability practices. Additionally, Kristen's oversaw global facilities and construction projects, including the transition to EV and battery cell manufacturing plants, and managed GM’s global facilities capital and operations budget.
9:00 - 10:00 AM Executive Interviews

Sept. 25 Day 3

Executive Interviews

2:00 -2:30 PM Fireside Chat

Sept. 25 Day 3

Navigating the Future of Carbon Removal: A Trillion-Dollar Opportunity

This session uncovers the immense potential of the burgeoning carbon removal industry, projected to reach a trillion dollars by 2050. We will discuss how companies can leverage innovation and R&D to address residual emissions. Discover how forward-thinking companies are taking control of their carbon spending and securing a significant strategic advantage in a rapidly evolving market that demands tangible climate action.

9:30 - 10:30 AM Panel Session

Sept. 24 Day 2

Career Evolution for Sustainability Executives: Inside the Corporate Walls and Beyond

This session explores how senior sustainability professionals and Chief Sustainability Officers can foster their careers in an uncertain sustainability environment. We'll discuss changes to how you operate in current roles, and options for job search and transitioning out, such as work in sustainable investing, entrepreneurship and leveraging the fractional sustainability trend. Join us to gain real-life insights from our expert panel who have made similar career moves or helped others do the same. Moderated by Amy Springsteel, former Chief Sustainability Officer, Bloomberg

10:30 - 11:00 AM Executive Interviews

Sept. 24 Day 2

Executive Interviews

Covering sustainability news and innovation live from the floor of The Nest Climate Campus. Hosted By: Matt Bird, CEO & Editor-in-Chief, ESG News

11:00 AM - 11:40 AM Panel Session

Sept. 24 Day 2

Closing the Execution Gap: The 'HOW' of Sustainability

This session focuses on the practical side of sustainability; how to move beyond strategy into real progress. Companies are adjusting to work effectively across business lines, embed sustainability into everyday operations, and overcome common barriers such as budget constraints. Hear about real approaches to collaboration, alignment, and execution that ensure sustainability initiatives translate into measurable impact.