In 2023, ICLEI South America added professionals with over 10 years of market experience to its team to further enhance the work developed with its associated local governments. Among them is Alessandra Peres, Senior Fellow of Green Finance.

With a Master's degree in Public Management and over 25 years of experience in executive leadership and the management of projects, programmes, policies, and sustainable development funds, the Administrator has excelled in her field, becoming a respected reference throughout Latin America and Africa.

Her work spans several fundamental areas, including Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A), Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Over the years, she has played a pivotal role in operations and technical cooperation with multilateral and bilateral development banks, international organisations, governments, and the private sector. Her work at the Inter-American Development Bank in Washington DC and in the positions of Undersecretary for the Environment and Economy for the Federal District Government are notable examples of her dedication to public service and the promotion of sustainable policies.

She currently holds high-profile positions, including Executive Director of ABES – Brazilian Association of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, where she has led transformative initiatives in the fields of basic sanitation and environmental engineering in Brazil. Additionally, she serves as Director of Climate Change at A&C2 consult, demonstrating her commitment to mitigating the impacts of climate change and pursuing innovative solutions.

Your scope extends beyond national matters to the international stage. You are recognised for your extensive work on critical global development issues, such as the UN's 2030 Agenda, the Paris Agreement, and the challenges posed by climate change. Your expertise covers key areas including sustainable cities, renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, safeguards, monitoring and evaluation, as well as resource mobilisation for projects supporting these causes.

Check out the full interview below with Alessandra Peres:

– Who is Alessandra Peres?

A multifaceted woman who is a mother, professional and canoeist. Furthermore, she is a passionate idealist and a tireless activist for the causes of sustainable development and climate change. 

– What are the main experiences you've gained throughout your career that you believe will contribute to your work with ICLEI?

With extensive experience in executive leadership and the management of sustainable development projects, programmes and policies, I hold a Master's degree in Public Management. My specialised knowledge in Green Finance and Climate Finance is particularly noteworthy.

My background includes notable contributions in Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A), ESG, and SDGs in Latin America and Africa, working closely with multilateral and bilateral development banks, international organisations, governments, and the private sector. Significant tenures at the Inter-American Development Bank in Washington DC and roles as Sub-Secretary for the Environment and Economy of the Federal District enrich my career path.

Currently, I hold leadership positions as the Executive Director of ABES – Brazilian Association of Sanitation and Environmental Engineering, and also as the Director of Climate Change at the company A&C2 consult.

My work covers important international development issues, such as the 2030 Agenda, the Paris Agreement, climate change, sustainable cities, renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, safeguards, monitoring and evaluation, and fundraising for projects in these areas.

– How did you get to know ICLEI and what are your expectations regarding the partnership?

In 2019, I held the position of Deputy Secretary for the Environment of the Federal District, and I was leading the implementation of the GEF CITinova project in Brasília. In this capacity, ICLEI invited me to present the project's activities and experiences, as well as our fundraising efforts.

Following this successful presentation, ICLEI invited me again, this time to speak at a UNFCCC event in Beirut, Lebanon. Furthermore, I had the honour of co-authoring a study on projects and fundraising in collaboration with Ezster Reka Mogyorosy, at the ICLEI headquarters in Bonn.

Another highlight was the invitation from Pourya Saheli to lead training sessions in my field of work. These opportunities demonstrate the recognition of my work and the relevance of the initiatives developed for the environment and sustainable development. I am committed to continuing to contribute innovative and impactful solutions in this area.

– In a few words, how would you summarise this opportunity?

 Fruitful partnership

– Despite the Green Finance Area being strategic for accelerating global sustainability agendas in territories, there is still a great deal of doubt among local governments regarding its concept and how to access resources. What do local governments need to know about this?

I identify that the main obstacle lies in the preparation and elaboration of the project. A well-structured plan already represents significant progress towards obtaining investment or funding. It is crucial for local governments to understand this importance and pave the way for efficient preparation.

– In your opinion, what are the main myths and truths about green finance that local governments should be aware of?

Myth: It is extremely difficult, almost impossible, to obtain funding, both refundable and non-refundable, for projects.

Truth: Requires dedication and effort.

Myth: A well-structured, technically and economically viable project with adequate access to resources is sufficient for its implementation.

Truth: The alignment between the technical and political areas of a project is fundamental, and the support of local stakeholders is crucial for the project to materialise.

– And what are the main challenges and opportunities for local governments to access green financing?

I identify that the main obstacle lies in the preparation and development of the project. Well-structured planning is halfway to obtaining investment/financing. It is essential that local governments understand this importance and chart the appropriate path for this preparation, along with political alignment of the project and the engagement of all local stakeholders.

– An achievement. 

Being the mother of two beautiful teenagers

A passion. 

My personal goal is to contribute, through my work, to building a more sustainable world.

– A dream. 

See the world

– ICLEI is… 

I sincerely hope that this partnership will be highly fruitful for us and for all the municipalities that, in some way, benefit from our joint work.