Daniel Ortega-Pacheco

Daniel Ortega-Pacheco is a globally recognized expert in climate policy and sustainable finance who currently serves as the Director of the Forest Carbon and Climate Program (FCCP) at Michigan State University, appointed in February 2024. With over 20 years of international experience, he brings extensive expertise in carbon markets, climate governance, and sustainable development. His impressive background includes serving as Ecuador's Minister of Environment, Lead Climate Negotiator, and Vice-Minister of Political Affairs, where he was instrumental in developing the country's net zero and biodiversity strategies. He holds a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Management from The Ohio State University and degrees from Michigan State University and EARTH University. At MSU, he leads the "Forest Carbon Credits and Initiatives" course, which provides comprehensive training in forest carbon project development, quantification, and market access. His current role as Co-Chair of the Expert Panel in the Integrity Council for the Voluntary Carbon Market (ICVCM) demonstrates his continued influence in establishing global standards for high-integrity carbon credits