Benjamin Simmons

Benjamin Simmons is Director of Sustainable Infrastructure and Director of the Nature-Based Infrastructure Global Resource Centre for IISD’s Economic Law and Policy Program. In these roles, Ben manages IISD’s work related to sustainable infrastructure, sustainable finance, and public procurement. 

Ben has over 20 years of experience establishing and leading global environmental partnerships and initiatives. Most recently, he worked at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) where he held a number of senior positions, including Head of Secretariat for the Green Growth Knowledge Partnership. In this role, Ben was responsible for establishing the initiative and developing and implementing its vision, mission, strategy, and work program.

Prior to this, Ben coordinated the Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity initiative at UNEP and worked as Head of the UNEP Trade, Policy, and Planning Unit. Ben also served as UNEP’s focal point for the United Nations Innovation Network and created the Geneva Environment Lab, a staff innovation network. Before joining UNEP, Ben worked as an environmental lawyer for Arnold & Porter LLP in New York City and served as a Peace Corps volunteer in southern Senegal.

Ben holds a Juris Doctor from Columbia University’s School of Law and a Master of International Affairs from Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs. He is based in Washington, D.C.