Dubai: The 11th World Green Economy Summit (WGES) commenced today at the Dubai World Trade Centre, focusing on the theme ‘Innovating for Impact: Accelerating the Future of the Green Economy’. Organised by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), and the World Green Economy Organisation (WGEO), the summit is set to conclude tomorrow.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event began with a plenary session titled ‘Green Technology for Resilience: Innovations in Smart Climate Solutions’, featuring prominent speakers such as Saeed Al Abbar, CEO of AESG; Stwart Pe±a Feliz, co-founder and CEO of MacroCycle Technologies; and Seneca Cottom, Head of Sustainability at Alshaya Group. The speakers addressed the financial impact of climate effects, costing the global economy over $320 billion in 2024, and stressed the importance of integrating finance, policy, and technology to enhance resilience and innovation in green technologies.
The summit also featured a presentation on the WGEO’s strategic role in the lead-up to the COP30 conference in Bel©m, Brazil, emphasizing the importance of adaptation, resilience, and climate finance in delivering sustainable projects. Michael Pollan, a renowned author and food sustainability advocate, discussed the significant impact of food production on global greenhouse gas emissions and advocated for regenerative agriculture.
The event included a panel discussion on the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, with industry leaders reflecting on a decade of achievements and future opportunities. A keynote address by Sheikha Dr Shamma bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan highlighted the role of social media in raising environmental awareness among youth.
Dr Arshad Mansoor, President and CEO of EPRI, presented on the transformative role of AI in energy systems, while a session on global leadership in climate challenges featured insights from Sauli Niinist¶, former President of Finland. The summit also explored AI’s environmental trade-offs and its role in enhancing productivity and efficiency in smart cities.
A discussion led by Olaf van der Veen, CEO of Orbisk, focused on the implications of climate change for human health, emphasizing the need for international cooperation. The day’s activities also included a presentation on the UAE’s efforts in global water action, highlighting initiatives by various UAE entities.
The summit will continue tomorrow with sessions on financing green transformation, carbon markets, and food and water security, along with the Emirates Energy Award ceremony and TEDx sessions.