About the instructor

Maria Laura, an Industrial Engineer holding two Master's degrees in Environmental Management and Green Economy, is a prominent expert in circular economy, climate change, and sustainability. 

She plays a pivotal role as a key member of the Dominican Republic's delegation to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), where she leads negotiations on Article 6, carbon markets, technology, and climate transparency. Leveraging her strong technical background, Maria Laura has been instrumental in developing emissions reduction projects in the Caribbean, focusing on various regulated CDM standards, particularly the Gold Standard and VERRA. Notably, she has also contributed significantly to the development of the first plastic recycling methodology as part of the Voluntary Protocol on Circular Economy initiated by Cercarbono.

Education

  • Green Economy with focus on Sustainability Business Strategies

    Master's degree obtained at the University of Lleida via Next International Business School Double Degree.

  • Environmental Management with focus on Risk Management and Climate Change Adaptation

    Master's degree completed at Pontificia Universidad Madre y Maestra (PUCMM).

  • Industrial Engineering

    Bachelor's degree completed at Pontificia Universidad Madre y Maestra (PUCMM).

Additional educational experience

  • Marine Litter Management 
    (Course offered by Japan International Cooperation Agency)

  • Negotiation and Leadership 
    (Training given by Harvard Law School)

  • Youth Climate Ambassador 
    (Training imparted by Climate Reality Project – LATAM)

  • Caribbean Climate Justice Leaders Academy  
    (Capacity building by Island Innovation )

Work experience

  • Technology-based Solutions Consultant

  • Sustainability Manager

Recent Activities


Research lines & Teaching Interests:

  • Climate change mitigation projects
  • Waste to energy projects
  • Plastic waste reduction methodologies
  • Climate youth activism 

Courses by this Instructor