Kevin Kelly Atlanta -3
New member
Over the last 20+ years, I’ve had the opportunity to work at the intersection of environmental policy, public finance, and community resilience here in Georgia. From my early days at the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) and GEFA, to my current work with Southface Energy Institute and Kirkwood & Kelly Consulting, the goal has remained consistent: to design and implement solutions that are both environmentally sound and financially sustainable.
Today, we talk a lot about sustainable finance — and for good reason. It’s one of the most powerful tools we have to drive long-term progress in areas like clean energy, water conservation, and green infrastructure. But it’s not just about funding projects. It’s about building systems and partnerships that last.
In my consulting work, I often advise organizations on how to align their capital planning with environmental priorities. That means helping municipalities access green bonds, structuring impact investment strategies, or guiding nonprofits through climate-focused grant opportunities. These aren’t just technical exercises — they’re the blueprint for real, measurable impact.
Georgia faces real challenges: rapid urbanization, climate variability, and growing demands on water and energy systems. But we also have incredible opportunities. By embracing climate resilience planning, and investing in sustainable infrastructure, we can build a future that supports both our economy and our natural resources.
I’ve seen firsthand how public-private partnerships, regional coalitions, and data-driven decision-making can unlock transformational change. And I’ve also seen the cost of waiting too long. That’s why I advocate for forward-thinking environmental finance — the kind that doesn’t just fix problems but prevents them.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that environmental leadership requires more than policy knowledge. It takes collaboration, commitment, and a willingness to see the long game. I remain committed to helping Georgia — and the Southeast as a whole — move toward a regenerative, resilient future.
— Kevin Kelly
Legacy Capital Advisor | Kirkwood & Kelly Consulting
Today, we talk a lot about sustainable finance — and for good reason. It’s one of the most powerful tools we have to drive long-term progress in areas like clean energy, water conservation, and green infrastructure. But it’s not just about funding projects. It’s about building systems and partnerships that last.
In my consulting work, I often advise organizations on how to align their capital planning with environmental priorities. That means helping municipalities access green bonds, structuring impact investment strategies, or guiding nonprofits through climate-focused grant opportunities. These aren’t just technical exercises — they’re the blueprint for real, measurable impact.
Georgia faces real challenges: rapid urbanization, climate variability, and growing demands on water and energy systems. But we also have incredible opportunities. By embracing climate resilience planning, and investing in sustainable infrastructure, we can build a future that supports both our economy and our natural resources.
I’ve seen firsthand how public-private partnerships, regional coalitions, and data-driven decision-making can unlock transformational change. And I’ve also seen the cost of waiting too long. That’s why I advocate for forward-thinking environmental finance — the kind that doesn’t just fix problems but prevents them.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that environmental leadership requires more than policy knowledge. It takes collaboration, commitment, and a willingness to see the long game. I remain committed to helping Georgia — and the Southeast as a whole — move toward a regenerative, resilient future.
— Kevin Kelly
Legacy Capital Advisor | Kirkwood & Kelly Consulting