This summit is devoted to discussions on practical, concrete actions organisations can take to accelerate their path to net-zero emissions, many enabled by technology, data, and AI.
Bringing together executives, regional experts, public-sector leaders, and leading sustainability, EHS, and ESG providers in the Middle East, this summit offers action-oriented panels, workshops, 1:1 meetings, and numerous networking opportunities for the ideal environment to share initiatives, inspire peers, and find solutions to real execution challenges.
WHAT MAKES THIS SUMMIT UNIQUE?
CONTENT
Power Panels
Interactive panel discussions with subject matter experts who will share their insights and points of view.
Collab Workshops
Practitioner-led workshops designed to provide knowledge you can put to work in your own company.
Sustainability Startup Showcase
Early-stage regional sustainability startups will be provided a platform to tell their stories and inspire us with their innovation.
FORMAT
The summit’s conversational format gives you the opportunity to freely ask questions and share your own POV during sessions.
Ample networking time means your day away from the office provides not only an occasion to learn, but also a professional growth opportunity.
Optional 1:1 meetings means you can take advantage of the cutting-edge sponsors who will be on site, ready to help you achieve your 2024 goals and beyond.
Common Sense Sustainability
Advisory Board
We have assembled a distinguished advisory board of regional sustainability thought leaders to guide our topic selection, keep our summit as green as possible, and share their expertise with all sponsors and participants.
Agenda
10:00 – 10:30
Registration and Refreshments
Check in and meet with fellow Business Leaders, Sustainability Experts, Government Officials & Thought Leaders before the summit officially kicks off.
10:30 – 10:45
Welcome and BuyerForesight™ Introduction
10:45 – 11:00
Keynote Address: How the UAE is Creating a Sustainable Future
11:00 – 11:20
Sustainable Partners Introduction
Collaboration with cutting-edge technology platforms ensures the seamless integration of sustainability practices into existing systems. In this introduction, we highlight our solution partners, who are driving sustainability transformation across various sectors. These strategic collaborators offer expertise in consulting, sustainable IT strategy, and innovative technology platforms, collectively assisting companies in formulating, implementing, and reviewing sustainability strategies aligned with corporate objectives and regulatory compliance.
11.20 – Noon
Preparing Your Organization for Net Zero
During this session, we’ll work through a framework for ensuring sustainability programs get off to a good start (or back on track). We’ll discuss how to establish robust data collection processes using standardized metrics, such as the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) and ISSB.
Noon – 13:00
Lunch and Networking
13:00 – 13:30
Take the Long View with Sustainability Investments
Whether you invest in other companies who are making bold strides in ESG or funding your own company’s sustainability initiatives, economic uncertainty may prompt you to minimize risk. However, there is an enormous opportunity cost for not making the right sustainability and resiliency investments now. During this session, we’ll discuss that cost and more.
13:30 – 14:30
Peer Connect Session and Scheduled 1:1 Meetings with Sponsors
Take a break to network with your peers and meet with relevant Sustainable Impact Summit sponsors.
14:30 – 15:00
Sustainability Startup Showcase
This showcase establishes a platform for early-stage regional sustainability startups to tell their stories and inspire us with their creativity and innovation.
15:00 – 15:40
Panel Sessions
TRACK 1
Creating a Climate-Resilient Organisation
The physical impacts of climate change are accelerating and will continue to impact critical infrastructure, supply chains, political stability, workforce health, and more. What steps are forward-thinking organisations taking to improve resiliency to climate-driven threats, and how are they securing funding and internal support for the changes needed?
TRACK 2
Avoiding the Greenwashing Trap
Companies that don’t build accessibility and tangibility into their ESG communications will likely be perceived as “greenwashing”. In this session, we’ll discuss what you can do to ensure your communications are genuine and transparent so as not to undermine real efforts on ESG.
15:40 – 16:20
Panel Sessions
TRACK 1
Change Management Strategies for Sustainability
In this workshop, we’ll share the challenges, obstacles, and opportunities for more effective messaging and incentives to get our entire organisation working towards a net zero future.
TRACK 2
Accessing Financing for Sustainability & ESG Initiatives
In this session, sustainability and finance leaders will discuss:
- Borrower vs lender perspectives.
- Setting measurable targets as part of financing/lending agreements.
- The role of ISSB standards in driving the industry towards investment-grade climate disclosures.
16:20 – 17:20
Peer Connect Session and Scheduled 1:1 Meetings with Sponsors
Network with your peers and meet with relevant Sustainable Impact Summit sponsors.
17:20 – 17:50
Advisory Board Summit Wrap-Up
Join us as our Advisory Board members recap the day’s content & share their takeaways & insights.
Former MD – MEA & APAC for Stolt-Neilsen
Head of Downstream Strategy and Sustainability at aramco
Chief Sustainability Officer for MBL
17:50 – 19:00
Networking Reception
Enjoy a proper send-off after a day full of sustainability-driven conversation, insights, and activities.