Robert Watson — SPARQNOW

At-a-Glance

Recognized as the 'Founding Father of LEED,' leading it to become the largest and fastest-growing international green building standard.
Principal at Upland Road, LLC since 2020, developing eco-industrial campuses with disruptive technology.
Founder & President of The SWEEP Standard since 2016, focused on moving the waste industry toward sustainability.
Strategic Advisor at Absolute Climate since 2025, advising on the development of their Absolute Carbon Standard.
Served as a Senior Scientist with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) for 21 years.
Received the first lifetime achievement award from the U.S. Green Building Council in 2002.
Holds an MBA from Columbia University and an MS in Energy & Resources.

Biography

Robert Watson is an international leader in market transformation, circular economy, sustainable materials management, and green buildings. He is widely known as the 'Founding Father of LEED,' having directed the standard to become the largest and fastest-growing international green building standard. Thomas Friedman has referred to him as 'one of the best environmental minds in America.