Zolli has more than twenty years’ experience working at the intersection of technology, social, and ecological change. Prior to joining Planet, he served as the Executive Director and Curator of PopTech. This is a network of scientists, humanitarians, technologists, designers, innovators, corporate, and governmental leaders. Together, they explored the social and environmental impacts of technology. He also served as one of the Exploration Fellows of the National Geographic Society.
Developing different programs
Furthermore, Zolli is the author of the critically-acclaimed book Resilience: Why Things Bounce Back. Thanks to translations in numerous languages worldwide, readers all over the world took notice of the work. He has advised a wide array of governments, NGOs, foundations, startups, and corporations on their sustainability and social impact programs. Also, Zolli serves on the global Board of Directors of Human Rights Watch. For the past eight years in Planet, he has been developing different programs. They have helped address everything from wildfire risks in California to the mapping of coral reefs worldwide. By doing this, he helped overseeing the company’s responses to numerous natural disasters. He has also played a leadership role in the development of Planet’s ethics program.
Globally coordinating Planet’s sustainable development work
In his new capacity is even broader in nature. Andrew now oversees a team of senior leaders in climate change, biodiversity conservation, sustainability/environmental, social & governance measurement. This goes for both for Planet and its customers. This team will coordinate Planet’s sustainable development work globally. This includes lead engagement with the international climate, development, humanitarian, philanthropic, and NGO sectors. “We are living in the most important decade of our lifetimes. The choices we make now regarding climate change and biodiversity loss will shape the future of all life on earth. Those choices must be informed by the best data available, including Planet’s,” said Andrew Zolli. “As a mission-led company, and soon-to-be public benefit corporation, we must meet this moment. I’m thrilled and humbled to help us do so.”
Embodiment of Planet’s mission
“In many ways, Andrew is the embodiment of Planet’s mission to use space to help life on earth. Sustainability and using technology to do good are a personal passion that he has brought to Planet every day for the past 8 years, and today many of Planet’s most impactful initiatives are the result of Andrew’s leadership and guidance,” said Will Marshall, CEO and co-founder of Planet. “Planet is fortunate to have Andrew and I’m thrilled to see him take on the role of Chief Impact Officer to continue and expand this work.”
planet.com