ABU DHABI: The Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders Summit 2024, chaired by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade, began in Abu Dhabi under the theme ‘Shaping a Sustainable Tomorrow.’ This highly anticipated event, which brings together influential leaders, innovators, and experts from various industries, is playing a crucial role in the global push for sustainable and equitable development, with trade one of the central pillars of this year’s gathering.
The event was opened by Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, whose keynote speech highlighted how the country’s role as a global trade hub is enabling it to impact the sustainability of supply chains, which are key drivers of growth across the world. ‘The UAE has long recognized that sustainability is deeply connected to our economic diversification ambitions, which seek to develop new industries, new capabilities, and new means of value creation. Sustainability is, therefore, a challenge we should embrace as a driver of innovat
ion.
As a supply chain hub, we know that trade has a vital role in delivering on our sustainability commitments, and we are using our platform and our authority to outline a new future for the global trading system, one that is smarter, cleaner, and more inclusive. By embracing innovation, forging strategic partnerships, and creating new global frameworks, we use sustainability as a catalyst to a better, more prosperous future.’
‘We all have a responsibility to create opportunities for progress in the global and regional sustainability agenda. This annual summit brings together some of the most important and impactful voices from across the ecosystem to share their insights, learn from each other, and inspire the world,’ said Khuloud Al Omian, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Middle East. ‘We are so proud to provide this vital platform and I look forward to seeing the measurable positive impact that it will have for us all.’
The summit aims to empower global leaders, industry professionals, and stakeholde
rs to tackle urgent environmental challenges. The agenda features a variety of panel discussions, interviews, and presentations on topics such as public policy for green goals, economic growth and community well-being, climate action through sustainable finance, and protecting essential resources.
Attendees are also engaging in hands-on workshops, including sessions on creating wellness spaces with plants, recycling, and achieving wellness through essential oils. Meanwhile, a vibrant cultural hub and art exhibition are highlighting various activities and artworks created from sustainable materials to promote green practices in creative and meaningful ways.
Source: Emirates News Agency