Professor Naoko Ishii

Professor Naoko Ishii is the special presidential envoy for Global Commons at the University of Tokyo and a Professor at University of Tokyo’s Institute for Future Initiatives. She is also the inaugural director of the Center for Global Commons (CGC), which is dedicated to achieving sustainable development within planetary boundaries. firmly believes that academia can play a pivotal role in mobilizing movements alongside policymakers, businesses, and civil society to ensure responsible stewardship of the global commons and a stable Earth system. Under her vision, CGC collaborates internationally on sustainability initiatives and spearhead projects with Japanese businesses on energy transition, food systems, and circular economy.

Previously, Professor Ishii led the Global Environment Facility (GEF) as CEO and chairperson (2012-2020), leading transformation of key economic systems for sustainability. Her career includes roles at Japan’s Ministry of Finance with last position as Deputy Vice Minister, as well as the World Bank and IMF.

She currently serves as Board member of UN Foundation, ClimateWorks Foundation, Emergent, member of Advisory Board of Capitals Coalition, EAT Foundation, Steering Committee of Global Commons Alliance. Dr. Ishii holds a Ph.D. from the University of Tokyo and has authored several books, two of which have received academic awards.