Daniel C. Esty

Daniel C. Esty is the Hillhouse Professor at Yale University with primary appointments in the School of the Environment and Yale Law School, and secondary appointments in Management and Global Affairs. He holds a J.D. from Yale Law School, an M.A. from the University of Oxford, and an A.B. from Harvard University. Esty serves as Director of the Yale Center for Environmental Law and Policy and co-director of the Yale Initiative on Sustainable Finance. His work focuses on climate policy, environmental law, sustainable trade systems, and corporate sustainability strategies.

Esty’s research emphasizes data-driven policymaking, including the development of the Environmental Performance Index (EPI). He has authored over 14 books and dozens of articles, advocating for global governance reforms to address climate change. Notable projects include the 'Remaking Trade for a Sustainable Future' initiative and the 'Villars Framework,' aimed at aligning global trade with sustainability goals.

His career includes leadership roles at the U.S. EPA (1989–1993) and as Commissioner of Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (2011–2014). Esty has advised international organizations like the WTO on sustainability strategies and frequently contributes to policy debates, emphasizing the integration of environmental protection with economic competitiveness.

Recent articles highlight his analysis of legal challenges to climate policies, the role of corporate leadership in sustainability, and reforms to global trade systems. His awards include recognition for prizewinning books such as Green to Gold and A Better Planet.