Achim Steiner served as Executive Director of UNEP (2006–2016), following roles as Director General of IUCN and Secretary General of the World Commission on Dams. He was also Director-General of the UN Office at Nairobi. With a global career spanning countries like India, South Africa, Germany, and Vietnam, Steiner has advanced sustainability, equity, and development at grassroots and international levels. He serves on multiple advisory boards, including as Vice Chair of the China Council on Environment and Development, and has received numerous global honors.