The Hashgraph Association, the non-profit organization accelerating the broad adoption of the DLT ( Distributed Ledger Technology) network Hedera globally, has today announced a co-funding initiative with UAE based Seagrass, a climate action company and subsidiary of E.ON, one of Europe's largest operators of energy networks and energy infrastructure.
This initiative facilitates the building of the Seagrass Wallet, a proof-of-concept Web3 identity wallet that provides users with a decentralized digital identity and wallet that relates to their carbon projects.
Seagrass which is based in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) financial centre UAE holds a license to arrange trades in environmental instruments from ADGM's Financial Services Regulatory Authority. Seagrass chose the UAE because of its position as the cross roads and stands where carbon credits are originated as well as demanded.
Seagrass aims to unlock the potential of the carbon markets and transform carbon finance, which can make an important contribution to the net-zero transition. This collaboration supports its goal of bringing together supply from certified projects with large-scale demand from buyers with ambitious climate strategies on a centralized marketplace driven by technology, transparency and integrity.
The Web3 identity wallet provides transparency on environmental, economical and project data to buyers and developers. Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) architecture enabled by Hedera ensures users will have a decentralized digital identity and crypto wallet that is compliant with European standards. This leading-edge Web3 digital wallet creates, stores, and presents digital identities with verifiable credentials, alongside the storage and exchange of assets.
The digital identity would put users who had been onboarded by Seagrass in charge of their credentials, potentially allowing them to save time and reduce costs by interacting with other market participants without having to go through fresh due diligence or know-your-client checks.
The proof-of-concept has been designed to be compatible with Seagrass Carbon Map, a live application available to buyers and sellers on the Seagrass marketplace that provides users with sophisticated data on the impact of nature-based projects and enables deep, ongoing engagement between project developers and carbon credit buyers. Seagrass Wallet is currently in testing and will be made available to clients in 2024.
Thomas Birr, Chief Strategy and Innovation officer at E.ON and Managing Director of Seagrass’ shareholding company, said: “We’re proud to be partnering with The Hashgraph Association and Hedera on the use of Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) to unlock opportunities in the carbon markets via Seagrass. I look forward to seeing its implementation and use in 2024.”
Kamal Youssefi, President of the Board of The Hashgraph Association, said: “As we build a vibrant innovative ecosystem for startups, enterprises, and government institutions around the world, we simultaneously focus on the realization of a net zero carbon future. Combining the power of Hedera’s DLT with Seagrass’ commitment to scale the carbon markets via liquidity, integrity, and digital access for all, it also builds value on the wider engagement with E.ON.”
About The Hashgraph Association
The Hashgraph Association supports training and education programs across multiple industry verticals. In the forefront is the digital enablement and empowerment of the public through broad adoption of Hedera-powered, enterprise-grade solutions and applications in the decentralized economy, which include accreditation and certification. As a non-profit, The Association funds innovation, research, and development for the benefit of economic inclusion with a positive environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impact. For information about The Hashgraph Association, visit www.hashgraph-association.com.
About Seagrass
Seagrass is a climate action company focused on unlocking the potential of carbon markets and transforming carbon finance to accelerate the transition to net zero. A wholly-owned subsidiary of E.ON, one of Europe’s largest operators of energy networks and energy infrastructure, Seagrass is headquartered in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) financial centre. It is licensed by the ADGM Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) to arrange trades in environmental instruments.
www.seagrass-climate.com
South Korea-based SEMP Group and Abu Dhabi-based Global Solutions for Project Management have launched a pathbreaking innovation that will shape the future of clean energy – the AI Smart Electromagnetic Generator (AISEG) at COP28 organized in Dubai, UAE.
AISEG is the result of nearly four years of research by experts at the SEMP Research Institute, which is now entering commercial application following its official launch at COP28. Visitors to COP28’s Green Zone at the Energy Transition Hub, a part of the Sustainability District can witness first-hand live demonstrations of the innovative technology that meets the aspirations of the world to cut emissions and transition to Net Zero by 2050, in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement.
Zero-fuel, zero-emissions, highest efficiency
AISEG is the world’s first successful system that generates higher efficiency output compared to input power. With over 70 patents in 60 countries, it does not have any rotating parts, does not produce carbon or heat emissions, is self-powered and delivers outstanding efficiency. It has a compact footprint and near-permanent lifespan - a one-stop solution for the world's energy needs.
AISEG opens a market of infinite value with application in every field, such as automobiles by providing clean, emission-free power without fuel. Industries can generate electricity without need for power transmission and home appliances can be powered with an easy plug and play model. It also replaces the immense fuel needed for ships, planes, and carriers, and every other power source at customised power plants.
Eco-friendly solution for the power demand
“AISEG technology marks a milestone of profound significance for the world and the future of clean energy – marking a journey of innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to a sustainable tomorrow,” said Zakeya Alameri, Founder and CEO of Global Solutions for Project Management.
Woohee Choi, CEO of SEMP Research Institute Co., Ltd., said: “We are honoured to showcase our invention, the world's first non-rotation type power generation system that will transform how power is produced and consumed, at COP28. AISEG demonstrates our dedication to innovative decarbonization, delivering efficient energy while minimizing carbon emissions.”
Abu Dhabi’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster is ready to welcome GRIDSERVE, a provider of smart-connected electric vehicle charging networks, powered by clean energy generation. Announced during COP28, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and GRIDSERVE will work together with the shared ambition to accelerate support the wider growth of the UAE’s electric vehicles (EV) sector.
GRIDSERVE is a technology player in the EV transition and delivers net zero transport through its Sun-to-Wheel technology platform for EV charging networks, powered by solar energy and batteries. The company is working with ADIO to leverage Abu Dhabi’s SAVI cluster to accelerate its ambition for delivering smart connected electric vehicle Partner Networks in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Centred in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi’s fully integrated SAVI cluster provides state-of-the-art facilities, services, and regulatory framework to enable the design, testing, and manufacturing of applications for transportation and mobility on air, land and sea, as well as to service other sectors such as logistics.
Badr Al-Olama, Director General of ADIO, said: “Abu Dhabi’s SAVI cluster encompasses the entire smart and autonomous mobility value chain, from the design and manufacture of vehicles to the generation, distribution and charging of the clean energy to power them. ADIO’s collaboration with GRIDSERVE adds further depth to SAVI and is an important step in building a next generation network to power the future of mobility in the UAE and globally.”
Pioneering a shift towards sustainable mobility, the UAE has set an ambitious goal of transitioning half of its road vehicles to electric power by 2050. EV charging infrastructure is a key enabler of both this goal and the wider adoption of smart and autonomous vehicles.
Toddington Harper, CEO of GRIDSERVE, said: GRIDSERVE’s purpose is to deliver sustainable energy and move the needle on climate change. This relationship with ADIO is very exciting and has the potential to accelerate climate action and springboard GRIDSERVE’s activities in the region. We look forward to working together and the opportunity to accelerate the delivery of smart and autonomous vehicle applications across Partner Network opportunities in the region, and globally.
Abu Dhabi’s SAVI cluster builds on the strength of Abu Dhabi’s industrial base and supports the UAE’s target of half of all cars on the roads being electric by 2050. SAVI leverages Abu Dhabi’s unparalleled access to established air corridors, road infrastructure and global seaports. The cluster houses academia, test zones, R&D labs, testing and certification facilities, large scale workshops, hangars, manufacturing facilities, connected through Abu Dhabi’s global logistics network.
About ADIO
The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) enables local, regional and international investors to thrive and grow in the UAE capital through its close collaboration with government partners, sovereign investors, and national champions. ADIO is Abu Dhabi's premier platform that empowers the private sector to grow, partner and compete globally by providing access to growth opportunities, strategic partnerships and new markets across key sectors that range from real estate and infrastructure, to industries and agribusiness, enhancing the nation’s investment in talent, innovation and sustainability.
With a growing network of global offices, investors can contact ADIO by visiting its head office in Abu Dhabi or international offices located in Beijing, Frankfurt, London, New York, Paris, San Francisco, Seoul, and Tel Aviv.
Visit https://www.investinabudhabi.gov.ae/ for more information.
About Gridserve
GRIDSERVE is a forward-thinking, technology-enabled sustainable energy business. We are committed to delivering net zero transport at the speed and scale the climate crisis requires to prevent global temperature rises exceeding 1.5°C of warming.
We #deliver net zero transport through our pioneering and multi award-winning Sun-to-Wheel platform: developing, delivering and operating world class customer-focused electric vehicle charging networks powered by solar energy and batteries. We support the success of our networks and the EV transition through driving the uptake and success of electric vehicles with GRIDSERVE Car Leasing.
Everything we do is underpinned and connected by a technology-agnostic, proprietary data platform that grows and improves every day.
Visit https://www.gridserve.com for more information.
On the heels of the first week of COP28, PepsiCo, SABIC, AstroLabs and their strategic partners have announced the launch of the Mega Green Accelerator, a new initiative to nurture the next generation of innovators in the region as they develop solutions to both regional and global sustainability challenges.
The Middle East is warming almost two times faster than the global average, yet the support and investment for the sustainability innovation ecosystem in the region does not match this urgency. Since 2010, less than 50 new climate technology startups have been founded in the MENA region, compared to nearly 5,000 in Europe and the US. The Mega Green Accelerator aims to reduce this gap, foster regional collaboration and cultivate a network of MENA-based innovators addressing the most pressing sustainability challenges in the region.
The priority focus areas for the first round of the Accelerator program include circular economy, clean energy transitions, water and agriculture, some of the most pressing issues for the Middle East. In addition to seed funding and mentorship, the partners will provide participating entrepreneurs access to some of the most prominent business leaders in the region.
“Innovators in the MENA region have incredible potential for scaling and are making important strides to develop homegrown solutions to address the unique challenges the region is facing. COP28 is already putting a spotlight on climate innovations coming out of the UAE and the region at large, and PepsiCo is excited to support the next generation of climate leaders through the Mega Green Accelerator. By bridging the gap between entrepreneurs and the networks and resources they need, we are committed to supporting breakthrough start-ups as they scale sustainability solutions, grow their businesses and form critical connections,” said Eugene Willemsen, CEO of PepsiCo, Africa, Middle East, South Asia.
In addition to PepsiCo, SABIC and AstroLabs, the Accelerator will leverage its strategic partners’ unique capabilities and expertise to best support participating entrepreneurs. Investment partners Dubai Future District Fund, Venture Souq and Shurooq Partners will provide platforms for investment opportunities, mentorship in raising capital, and networking opportunities. They will also inform startup criteria and participate in the selection process to maximize investment success.
Ecosystem partners London Business School Entrepreneurship Club, Berytech, American University of Cairo Venture Lab, the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park and the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection will source applicants through their networks, amplify Accelerator information and communicate progress through their channels. Schneider Electric will support the Accelerator as a prize partner, participating in the final selection of participants.
“SABIC is proud to join with PepsiCo and other fellow partners to provide our business expertise, mentorship, resources and platform to help the brightest minds in the region reach their full potential through the Mega Green Accelerator. We believe that such cross-sector partnerships are crucial in effectively tackling complex, critical issues such as climate change. In supporting this initiative, we are not just bettering local economies, but people and planet at the same time,” said Dr.Bob Maughon, SABIC Chief Technology and Sustainability Officer.
"Our partnership with PepsiCo and SABIC comes at an exciting time - it’s a strategic step in accelerating innovation within the GCC, with a strong focus on sustainability. With the influx of international sustainable and climate-conscious companies, the region is rising as a global testbed for innovation - we will double down on creating an environment where these businesses can scale into the local markets. Our aim is to ensure the GCC not only responds to the current demand for green solutions but also pioneers the advancement of sustainable business practices on a global scale,’’ said Roland Daher, CEO, AstroLabs.
The priority focus areas of the Mega Green Accelerator align with PepsiCo’s transformation strategy, pep+ (PepsiCo Positive) and the other partners' sustainability agendas, while further driving collaboration with businesses across the region to catalyze positive impact.
In the coming months, PepsiCo and partners will share additional details and application information for the Mega Green Accelerator. To stay updated, follow PepsiCo Positive (pep+) Middle East LinkedIn page and @PepsiCo on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Leminar Global, a prominent HVAC & Plumbing Solutions provider in the GCC, proudly announces the signing of a distributorship agreement with Calpak, a leading solar thermal water heater manufacturer based in Athens, Greece. This collaboration signifies a significant stride in Leminar’s commitment to providing comprehensive and sustainable water heating solutions to the Middle East market, emphasizing the shared dedication of both entities towards technological advancement and a greener future.
Founded in 1976 as a subsidiary of British Petroleum (BP), Calpak swiftly emerged as Europe's pioneer in introducing solar energy for domestic hot water. Recognized for its technical expertise and groundbreaking research and development, Calpak stands out as a premier producer of top-tier solar thermal collectors and hot water tanks. Leminar will represent Calpak’s flagship products, including the Calpak Forced Circulation System and Calpak Xflow Fresh Water Ultratank in the UAE, while Leminar Qatar and Oman will distribute Calpak’s full product range, encompassing Thermosiphonic solar water heater systems.
Panayis Konstantinidis, Managing Director at Calpak, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "This collaboration with Leminar represents an exciting leap forward in our mission to introduce our innovative solar solutions to the Middle East market. Our production facility in Athens is recognized as the most technologically advanced in the solar thermal industry, incorporating robotic technology. Together with Leminar, we aim to introduce and expand our cutting-edge solar thermal technology to the UAE, Qatar, and Oman, contributing to the region's sustainable development goals while providing clients with reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly solutions."
Pramodh Idicheria, Chief Operating Officer of Leminar Global, commented, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Calpak, a company deeply rooted in a legacy of innovation and steadfast dedication to delivering sustainable solar solutions. Our commitment to offering an extensive range of next-generation solar-powered water heating solutions to the GCC market remains unwavering. This partnership signifies a significant stride in our dedication to sustainable manufacturing practices, as we continue to provide advanced turnkey solutions to the region, aligned with our shared commitment to making a positive environmental impact and ensuring customer satisfaction.”
Developed by Al Masaood Power Division, SHAMS+ emerges as a homegrown, first-of-its kind solar power charging station for electric vehicles and hybrid marine vessels. SHAMS+ stands out as a remarkable 100% renewable energy source that is not only carbon-neutral but also easily redeployable and demands low maintenance.
This unique characteristic positions it as a critical instrument in our collective efforts to combat global warming. This cutting-edge charging solution is designed to function as a solar power system capable of meeting the battery charging requirements for both electric vehicles and hybrid marine vessels. SHAMS+ features multiple usercapability, providing sustainable battery charging through solar energy at the highest charging speed starting from 25 minutes. The ultra-fast charging solution, coupled with its extensive network of charging stations, aims to cater comprehensively to the battery charging requirements of the automotive and maritime sectors.
Prioritising customer convenience and efficiency, SHAMS+ also operates as an off-grid high-power solution, offering enhanced flexibility and streamlined installation in various urban and rural locations, including agricultural areas, as well as in marine ports and hubs. With this pioneering project, Al Masaood aims to deliver a connectivity-enabled, seamless plug-and-charge experience. It’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to be at the forefront of electrification and support the rise of green mobility, and hopefully inspire wider adoption of green power and mobility solutions, thereby reducing carbon emissions and helping fast-track the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategic goals.
Al Masaood Power, which is one of the country’s oldest specialty businesses in power solutions. Established in 1970, it was the first to bring a world-class electric generator to Abu Dhabi. It is also a pioneer in energy generation, offering leading power brands such as MTU, Leroy-Somer and Volvo Penta generators and aftersales services to the UAE and Bahrain.
Dubai has announced a major new initiative charting an industry-friendly energy policy for the manufacturing sector that will serve to support and accelerate the emirate’s sustainability ambitions. The initiative also fits in with the emirate’s wider plans to develop a green economy in keeping with the Dubai Economic Agenda 2033 – D33.
Significantly strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading international hub for exporters and manufacturers, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority PJSC (DEWA) will oversee the Government of Dubai’s ambitious green economy policy for the manufacturing industry, which is to be rolled out from 1 January 2024.
The initiative will enable manufacturers, data centres and agri-tech players to install captive solar generation up to their total connected load, empowering them to meet their own demand while slashing the power costs they would normally incur and achieving a cleaner energy mix. The power policy will also accord priority to such manufacturers to purchase available international renewable energy certificates (i-RECs), thereby boosting their potential to achieve net-zero goals and sustainability targets.
Factoring in the lower energy costs and higher share of green energy, the DEWA-led initiative is aligned with the Executive Council’s strategic initiatives to boost Dubai’s industrial sector and make the city more competitive in the regional and international markets. This will also contribute to increased investments from local and international players besides encouraging and attracting manufacturers and the downstream logistics and trade ecosystem to foster stable, secure, and sustainable growth.
At a macro-economic level, the initiative will also help to advance the goals of the D33 Agenda launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to consolidate Dubai’s bid to establish itself in the top three urban economies globally. A key priority of the D33 Agenda is to champion green manufacturing as part of ongoing efforts to support the growth of the emirate’s clean energy sector.
His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD&CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority PJSC (DEWA) said: “This initiative aligns with the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to further the green economy and maintain a sustainable environment to support long-term economic growth.
“The initiative will increase Dubai’s attractiveness for manufacturing investments as it allows industrial players to reduce cost of doing business and achieve clean energy targets. On the other hand, it will help Dubai accelerate its decarbonisation journey and achieve net zero targets, while reducing dependency on natural gas.”
The policy announcement coincides with the UAE’s historic hosting of the global climate summit COP28 at Expo City Dubai from 30 November to 12 December, with the increased industrial opportunities for solar power generation and environmentally responsible manufacturing set to provide a critical step forward in Dubai’s industrial ambitions and significantly reinforce its efforts to enhance sustainability initiatives. The initiative will also drive decarbonisation efforts within the emirate’s manufacturing sector in accordance with the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategy.
By promoting environmentally friendly and energy-efficient production in the manufacturing sector, the initiative also aids Dubai’s strategy to empower manufacturers – a core segment of the Dubai Industrial Strategy 2030, which aims to increase the overall output and value-addition of the manufacturing sector while spurring innovation and showcasing the emirate as a preferred destination for industries.
Source: Government of Dubai
A new circular economy framework has been unveiled to accelerate Abu Dhabi’s transition towards a smart and sustainable economy, the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) said.
The Industrial Circular Economy Policy framework aims to achieve a 50 per cent reduction in industrial process waste, at least 40,000 tonnes annually and will cover key sectors to ensure 100 per cent compliance by 2030, with 100 per cent compliance within the plastic manufacturing sector by 2025.
“The pivotal role of the industrial sector in fostering sustainability underscores the need for a heightened commitment to implementing circular economy principles across all sectors,” Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED, said after the official announcement of the policy during the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2023 at COP28.
The new framework, part of the Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy’s (ADIS) six transformational programmes, will guide industrial businesses to use resources more responsibly by minimising waste and environmental impact while maximising the value and lifecycle of products and materials by utilising resources more efficiently. It is poised to revolutionise the industrial landscape and foster sustainable economic growth.
The policy includes a 100 per cent scrap recovery and reuse in the metal and plastic industries, which will positively impact subsectors such as electronics, electricals, assembling products, machinery, fabricated metal products, and more. As a regulatory requirement, the IDB ensures 100 per cent compliance within the plastic manufacturing sector by 2025.
“Abu Dhabi currently surpasses global averages in the reuse of industrial waste, and our progressive circular economy framework, coupled with other initiatives in various sectors, ensures we become a truly ‘Green Falcon Economy’,” Al Zaabi said.
The circular economy framework, a departure from the conventional ‘take-make-dispose’ linear model, emerges as Abu Dhabi is transforming towards a diversified, smart, inclusive, and sustainable economy.
“We are determined to deliver lasting change and ensure businesses in the Emirate adopt a more responsible approach to resource utilisation, integrate ESG principals into their operations, qualify and upskill talent, and embrace green procurement and technology. This strategic direction aligns with our overarching philosophy which places human development and sustainability at the core of socio-economic strategies and plans.”
The framework, supervised by the Industrial Development Bureau (IDB), the ADDED’s arm to develop and regulate the industrial sector, is expected to be implemented in the second quarter of 2024.
To encourage industrial entities to adopt the circular economy principles and policies, ADDED is offering incentive schemes and arranging programames to enhance awareness. Specialised monitoring, reporting, and verification schemes, including audits, inspections, and enforcement, will be implemented to ensure all industries adopt circular economy practices.
Source: Ashwani Kumar, Khaleej Times
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, Youth 4 Sustainability (Y4S), a Masdar initiative, will host a dedicated program of youth-focused activities and events at COP28 in Expo City, Dubai, from November 30 to December 12. The Y4S program promotes meaningful, youth-led action on sustainable development and climate change, while amplifying the voices of future sustainability leaders.
On December 6, Y4S will host the final of the Innovate 4 Climate Challenge (I4C). This annual competition invites young people to collaborate to develop innovative solutions to accelerate sustainable development in order to foster creativity, problem-solving skills, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Taking place at Masdar’s Pavilion located in the Energy Transition Hub in COP28’s Green Zone, all solutions will be showcased during the final pitch day at COP28. The final of I4C will now see a select group of competitors pitch their climate mitigation-focused solutions to an expert panel of judges.
On December 8 – COP28’s day for Youth, Children, Education and Skills – Y4S will host the Y4S Forum in the Masdar Pavilion under the theme of “Advancing Youth Participation in Climate Mitigation”. The Forum will provide an important engagement platform and voice for young people and showcase the vital role youth can play in addressing climate change. Through panel discussions, and interactive workshops, participants will have the opportunity to connect and collaborate with like-minded individuals. Panelists include: H.E. Awaidha Murshed Ali Al Marar, Chairman, Department of Energy; Alan Smith, CEO, Aghtia; Esther Wanjiru Kimani, CEO, Farmer Life Technologies, and Maryam Al Mansoori, General Manager, Rebound Plastic.
Y4S’s COP28 program will culminate on December 11 with the Y4S Climate Talk, a 45-minute panel discussion at the Children and Youth Pavilion, under the theme “Reimagining the Climate Narrative Through Storytelling for a Positive Youth Impact.” The event will showcase the outcomes of the Forum and inspire young people to take an active role in building a more sustainable future. Speakers include Mohamed Luqman, President of Mubadala Youth Council & Co-founder of Seven Dawgs; AlDhabi AlMheiri, the youngest Emirati entrepreneur and publisher and founder of Rainbow Chimney; Toby Gregory, Founder and Project director, the Plastic Pledge and the Arabian Ocean Rowing Team.
His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, emphasized that the role of youth in tackling climate change has never been more important. His Highness highlighted that as the UAE hosts and participates in discussions that will help drive decisive global action, it is imperative that young people are empowered with the skills to lead on climate solutions. Youth 4 Sustainability, he added, is preparing future sustainability leaders who will harness their talents, engage their communities, and build a sustainable future.
Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Masdar Chief Executive Officer, said: “As the world’s leaders convene in COP28 in the UAE for the United Nations summit to shape climate policy, the next generation will also have a global platform to play their part through Y4S. Young people are a driving force for promoting meaningful action, which is why Y4S and Masdar are hosting a dedicated program of events at COP28, providing a unique and inclusive opportunity for young people to have their voices heard.”
Climate change risks inflicting a heavy toll on future generations. In some parts of the world, it is already limiting access to healthcare or education, damaging food and water systems and affecting air quality. Given the disproportionate impact on young people, it is critical to use platforms like COP28 and Y4S to empower young people as agents of change and innovators working to protect lives, livelihoods and the planet.
Applications are also now open for Y4S’s prestigious programs to start in January 2024 – Future Sustainability Leaders and Sustainability Ambassadors - supporting the growth of the next generation of pioneers and innovators. Participants benefit from real-world skills, as well as developing the knowledge and networks needed to accelerate their academic and professional careers in sustainability.
-Ends-
About Y4S
Y4S is aligned with the UAE’s Principles of the 50, UAE Net-Zero by 2050 strategic initiative, and UN SDGs for mitigating climate change by building youth capacity, resilience, and adaptability. The Masdar platform hosts two year-long education and skill-training programs: the Future Sustainability Leaders (FSL) and Sustainability Ambassadors (SA) programs – both of which aim to empower the next generation of sustainability leaders by connecting them with global policymakers, corporate decision-makers, entrepreneurs, and technology pioneers to learn about best sustainability practices and leadership. FSL targets university and postgraduate students aged 19 to 35, whereas SA targets students aged 15 to 19 in high school.
Young people can also apply now to join Y4S’s year-long 2024 programs, which start in January 2024.
- The Sustainability Ambassadors program is open to senior high school students aged between 15 and 18, who can apply by visiting: https://masdar.my.salesforce-sites.com/SustainabilityAmbassadors
- The Future Sustainability Leaders program is open to university students and young professionals aged 19 to 35, who can apply by visiting: https://masdar.my.salesforce-sites.com/FutureSustainabilityLeaders
For more information please visit: masdar.ae/en/strategic-global-initiatives/y4s and connect.
With buildings representing some 40 per cent of global emissions , decarbonising the built environment is one of the fastest paths to meeting net zero targets globally, and essential for many businesses with 2030 carbon reduction goals, a study by Johnson Controls has shown.
“For leaders looking to quickly advance their net zero journey and make a real impact on global carbon reduction, buildings are the key enabler,” said Johnson Controls chairman and CEO George Oliver. “Our whole approach is not only the electrification of the equipment, but then also deploying that with digital capabilities, the use of data, that then gives us an opportunity to take the built environment upgraded, consume all of the data and fundamentally change how the building operates. We can up to 50 per cent reduction in energy consumption this way,” he told Khaleej Times in an interview on the sidelines of the COP28 climate summit in Dubai.
Johnson Controls is a 140-year-old global diversified technology and multi-industrial company that specialises in building efficiency, batteries, and automotive seating. With a history dating back to 1885, Johnson Controls has evolved into a leader in intelligent buildings, efficient energy solutions, and integrated infrastructure. The company’s building technologies & solutions segment offers systems for controlling heating, ventilation, air conditioning, security, and fire management.
Committed to sustainability, Johnson Controls actively promotes eco-friendly practices and solutions. Their focus on innovation, technological prowess, and dedication to environmental responsibility has solidified their position as a prominent player in the global technology and industrial landscape.
The company entered the UAE in 1975, and its business in the Middle East is now valued at around $1 billion, Oliver said. “It’s a business that we have been growing significantly and is making sure that not only do we have the appropriate technology for the applications here with the products, but understanding the applications,” he added.
At an event at the Museum of the Future last week, the company signed some major agreements. Etihad Energy Services Company partnered with Johnson Controls to provide energy-efficient and sustainable solutions to Dubai Police. Leading real estate developer Al Fattan Properties in Dubai has awarded Johnson Controls a 10-year cooling as a service agreement. The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority has been registered as a Johnson Controls OpenBlue Pioneer, and has received the ‘Blueprint of the Future’ award, which recognises outstanding models of visionary thinking and digital transformation.
In its decarbonisation journey, Johnson Controls has been working with both public and private sector. “We are trying to understand supporting their journey to get to net zero, and emphasising that you don’t get to net zero without addressing the buildings and the infrastructure,” Oliver added.
There is an increased awareness among the global community about the urgency to address climate change, Oliver said. “I think what I see happening over the last three years, Glasgow, Sharm El Sheikh and now Dubai, is that we have moved on from just the public commitment to a significant increase from the private sector, in line with the commitments that have been made to be able to get to net zero,” Oliver said. “It begins to get more focus on efficient use of capital, that ultimately gets deployed to make sure that we’re achieving what we think is possible to be able to solve the problem,” he added.
There is also increased focus on the part of the private sector to act on climate change, Oliver noted. “As far as climate change is concerned, the prediction of the cost of not solving the problem is going to be far greater than what it’s going to take to solve the problem. And so I think there’s a true recognition of that and companies are realising that in their business, if they don’t incorporate decarbonisation and sustainability as core strategy and future economics, depending on what their business model is, they’re going to be left behind,” Oliver said.
Source: Somshankar Bandyopadhyay, Khaleej Times
