Maria Netto Schneider

Maria Netto Schneider is the executive director of Instituto Clima e Sociedade, a philanthropic institution in Brazil dedicated to advancing the climate agenda. With more than three decades of experience in climate finance and sustainable development, Netto Schneider oversees a portfolio supporting more than 200 organizations across Brazil. Her work focuses on renewable energy, green industry, bioeconomy, forest restoration, sustainable agriculture, climate finance, policy, local adaptation, and climate justice.

Before joining Instituto Clima e Sociedade, Netto Schneider held senior leadership roles at the Inter-American Development Bank and the New Development Bank, where she developed financing strategies to mobilize private sector investment in low-carbon and resilient projects throughout Latin America, the Caribbean, and emerging economies. Her earlier work at the United Nations Development Program and more than a decade at the UNFCCC Secretariat included leading global projects and financial cooperation efforts, such as the development of carbon market mechanisms under the Kyoto Protocol.

Netto Schneider is a frequent speaker at international conferences and forums, addressing topics including climate resilience, sustainable finance, and the integration of green business into economic policy. Her expertise in bridging finance and climate action, as well as managing multicultural teams and complex programs, positions her as a recognized figure in the global climate movement.