Paul Hawken believes that climate disruption is happening for us, meaning we have an extraordinary amount of innovation possibility. As an environmentalist and author, Hawken's practice has included starting and running ecological businesses, writing and teaching about the impact of commerce on living systems, and consulting with governments and corporations on environmental policy. He began this work at age 20 and has since founded many companies with an eye for sustainable business practices. 

Hawken is the Founder of the Natural Capital Institute, a research organization. He has served on the board of Point Foundation, Center for Plant Conservation, and Trust for Public Land.