Benjamin Ritter

Leading a team of four Columbia graduate students in providing strategic consulting services to support Energy Peace Partners in launching and positioning its innovative financial instrument (Peace Renewable Energy Credits, P-RECs) focused on energy access, climate resilience, and peacebuilding in emerging, conflict-affected markets.

Supported business development proposals focused on energy access finance, public facility electrification, and carbon markets. Delivered in-depth market assessments for Sierra Leone and Madagascar’s mini-grid and off-grid energy sectors to support dispersal of GreenMax’s flagship $49 million Clean Energy Access and Energy Inclusion (CEI Africa) fund.

Supported the development of CDI’s business process management for its inaugural carbontech grant and accelerator cohort, and drafted strategy memos for key internal and external programs including climate justice and international granting initiatives.

Published articles and blog posts to disseminate agri-food system greenhouse gas emissions academic research to broader policy and public audience, including topics such as cold chain emissions, the potential climate benefits of clean cooking improvements, and analysis of major COP28 policy announcements.

Selected from 1,200 applicants for summer EDF+ business fellowship, received robust sustainability training and certification. Designed a comprehensive employee engagement strategy to leverage 100,000 employees to meet carbon neutral commitment. Analyzed companywide GHG emissions data for streamlined reporting recommendations and areas for targeted carbon reductions.

Managed 15 multinational corporate members to deliver supplier engagement programs, identify scope 3 reduction strategies, analyze reported environmental data, and track progress against corporate climate targets. Overhauled methodology and format of flagship Scope 3 emissions dataset delivered annually to 200+ global corporate clients. Implemented engagement and education program for more than 250 key suppliers for Walmart's Project Gigaton carbon reduction program.

Raised $4,300 Partnership Program grant funds, oversaw construction of 200 improved hives, formed two new beekeeping cooperatives, and reached over 250 beneficiaries.