"Mr. Di Leva is a pioneer who brings breadth of experience on international organizations, financial institutions, and environmental sustainability to the practice of international law. Moreover, his proven professionalism and profound compassion guide him during interactions with stakeholders from any part of the globe, further enhancing the impact and reach of his contributions. Numerous projects and initiatives with global, regional, and national repercussions within the UN, the Inter-American system, and ASIL, have benefitted from his profound understanding of legal and policy tools that support effective governance of the environment."
Claudia S. de WindtFounding Partner and Chief Executive Officer, Inter-American Institute for Justice and Sustainability (IIJS)
Distinguished international environmental lawyer with an extensive career spanning over four decades, specializing in environmental and social standards, sustainable development, and climate finance. As the former Chief Officer of Environmental and Social Standards at The World Bank and Chief Counsel in Environmental and International Law, Mr. Di Leva has demonstrated exceptional leadership in developing and harmonizing environmental laws and policies globally. Mr. Di Leva served as Chief Counsel of the Environmental and International Law Practice Group in the World Bank Legal Vice-Presidency and is the Bank’s Legal Advisor to the Climate Change Solutions Area and the Environment and Natural Resources Global Practice Group. Since 1992 and throughout his career, he worked in all regions, specializing on issues pertaining to sustainable development, environmental and social issues in complex and high-risk setting. He represented the Bank in international treaty negotiations in areas of Climate, Biodiversity, Chemicals and Wetlands and related climate finance issues, leading negotiations related to the Green Climate Fund. He has also played a key role in the development and implementation of the World Bank’s environmental and social policies, as well as activities concerning the Bank’s Independent Inspection Panel and establishment of trust funds. His experience includes pivotal roles at UNEP, IUCN, and the U.S. Department of Justice, contributing significantly to international environmental agreements and initiatives such as the Paris Agreement. As an Adjunct Professor at George Washington University and American University, Mr. Di Leva has imparted knowledge in environmental justice, international climate change law, and sustainable development. His scholarly contributions are notable, with publications addressing the intersection of environmental and social policies, climate mitigation, and adaptation. Mr. Di Leva's career reflects a comprehensive perspective on multilateral environmental agreements, environmental law, and the challenges faced by both developed and developing countries. He has been instrumental in shaping environmental governance and compliance mechanisms, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental justice and sustainability.
Skills: Policy development and implementation, compliance, negotiations, law development.