Global Climate Innovation Summit
Strategies for a Sustainable Future - Innovative in Action
Global Climate Innovation
Summit & Award Gala Dinner
As the premier climate event, the annual Summit brings together a unique delegation of hundreds global thought leaders within the climate world and the creative economy. The summit will stimulate strategic dialogues for insights on the state and outlook of climate innovative solutions landscape, between regional authorities, international organizations, private sector, and civil society.
2nd Annual GCIC Global Climate Innovation Summit
September 6, 2024,
Delegates Dining Room at the United Nations, New York City
As a leading international climate change conference, the GCIC Global Climate Innovation Summit took place on September 6, 2024, at the Delegates Dining Room at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City. The event brought together a dynamic group of thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers to address urgent global challenges. This significant gathering provided a vital platform for collaboration, where innovative solutions and cross-sector partnerships emerged to address contemporary issues.
The event welcomed over 100 climate leaders and distinguished guests, including UN officials, high-ranking global representatives, local government leaders, and prominent figures from leading institutions.
The GCIC Summit left a lasting impact by inspiring ongoing efforts to empower marginalized communities, leverage innovative technologies, and strengthen international cooperation for a sustainable future. The insights and networks forged during the event continue to shape global initiatives, paving the way for a more equitable and resilient world.
Welcome Address
In the opening remarks of the Global Climate Innovation Summit, Mr. Michal Mlynár, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Acting Executive Director of UN-Habitat, emphasized the critical challenges and opportunities in achieving sustainable development goals, highlighting the need for innovative solutions and collaborative efforts.
Presentation Speaker
Michal Mlynár
UN Assistant Secretary-General and ActingExecutive Director of UN-Habitat
Michal Mlynár of Slovakia has been appointed by UN Secretary-General AntónioGuterres as the Deputy Executive Director of the United Nations HumanSettlements Programme (UN-Habitat). Mr. Mlynár, with nearly 30 years ofdiplomatic and educational experience, has served as Slovakia's Ambassadorand Permanent Representative to the UN since 2017. His extensive multilateralexperience includes leadership roles such as Vice President of the UNICEFExecutive Board and Chair of the Sixth Committee (Legal). Prior to his currentappointment, he was instrumental in the governance and strategic direction ofUN-Habitat,including as Chair and President of its governing bodies. Mr. Mlynárhas also held the position of Director General for International Organizations,Development Cooperation, and Humanitarian Aid in Slovakia's Ministry ofForeign and European Affairs.
Presentation Speaker
Robert Rae
Ambassador and Permanent
Representative of Canada to the United Nations in New York
Robert Rae, Canada’s Ambassador to the UN, echoed Mr. Michal’s message, stressing the necessity of global partnerships and collective action in combating climate change. Together, they set an inspiring tone for the summit, emphasizing that strategic dialogue and collaboration are essential for achieving sustainable prosperity for humanity and the planet.
The Summit featured keynote speeches, roundtable discussions, and presentations on climate innovation projects, focusing on key areas such as clean energy, low-carbon acceleration, local practices, space technologies, women & children empowerment, climate technologies, and the green economy.
Roundtable Discussion 1:
Innovative Technologies for a Sustainable Future
Panel Topic
This panel highlights the crucial link between environmental sustainability and tech progress, stressing the need to incorporate the seinnovations into global climate action and sustainability initiatives.
Amreen Poonawala
(moderator)
Sr.Al PM at Benetech
ex-UN,Accenture
Guest Speakers
Matthew Sekol
ESG and Sustainability Advoo
working at Microsoft
Author of ESG Mindset and
Benevolent Troublemaker
Eugenio Zuccarelli
Advisor at Carna; An Al Leader working with companies ranging from Fortune 500 firms to startups: focusing on Data Science and Al; A Forbes Under 30.WEF Global Shaper,and studied across MIT
Clarissa Paz
Esri Representative; Esri High-level Solutions Worker
Leader in Technology for All NYC Governments
Elizebeth Varghese
Principal at Deloitte Consulting LLP and co-leads the Cloud Enabled Workforce practice, as well as the People in Space team
At the 2024 GCIC Global Climate Innovation Summit, Panel 1 delved into how cutting-edge technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), are driving sustainable development.
Moderated by Amreen Poonawala, Senior AI PM at Benetech, the discussion featured representatives from leading companies like Microsoft, Deloitte, Esri, and innovative AI startups.
The speakers explored AI’s vast potential to revolutionize sectors such as healthcare, infrastructure, and power, emphasizing its role in enhancing environmental planning and green infrastructure.
The discussion featured insightful contributions from a diverse group of experts:
- Clarissa Paz, an Esri representative, emphasized the necessity of response time, environmental impact, and scenario planning in utilizing these technological breakthroughs. Additionally, Clarissa emphasized the main focus on new technology as a strong instrument for connection and visualization.
- Eugenio Zuccarelli, an AI leader and advisor at Carna, shared how data science and AI can be harnessed to predict and mitigate environmental impacts through tools like digital twins.
- Matthew Sekol, an ESG advocate at Microsoft, stressed the practical uses of digital twins, particularly in addressing water waste using 6000 sensors and a variety of solutions designed for places like Phoenix, Mexico City, and London.
- Elizebeth Varghese, Principal at Deloitte Consulting, touched upon how space and cloud technology interact with the environment. She also shared insightful knowledge on how to use and balance these technologies to address environmental issues.
The panel tackled questions about using simulation technologies for infrastructure planning, the sustainability implications of remote work, innovative solutions to meet rising energy demands, ethical considerations in tech development, and sustainable practices for space exploration. Collectively, the panelists emphasized that integrating innovative technologies into global climate initiatives is essential for fostering a sustainable future.
AI’s ability to predict trends, optimize resources, and improve operational precision can significantly contribute to global sustainability goals. In addition, the panel also stressed the importance of ethical AI applications, highlighting the need for responsible legislation, research, and investments to ensure AI’s growth aligns with ethical standards and doesn’t exacerbate inequality, especially in developing countries.
Concerns were raised by the audience about the challenges lower-income communities face in leveraging AI for sustainable growth. The speakers acknowledged these barriers, emphasizing the responsibility of corporations to invest in technological literacy initiatives. They also urged global governments to collaborate on AI development to ensure equitable access to technology-driven sustainability solutions.
The panel concluded that as technology plays an increasingly larger role in shaping our sustainable future, corporations and governments must work hand-in-hand to balance innovation with ethical and social responsibility.
Roundtable Discussion 2:
Empowering Women & Children for Global Progress
Panel Topic
This panel will explore the critical role that gender equality andchild welfare play in fostering sustainable development,economicgrowth,and social cohesion.
Martin B. Svatek
(moderator)
United Nations Representative of ChildFund Alliance
Guest Speakers
Meg Gardinier
Kathryn Marshall
Secretary General of ChildFund Alliance
Queen Elizabeth Il Diamond
Jubilee Medal; Canada's most
influential human rights lawyers nominated by Canadian Lawyer Magazine
H.E.Ambassador
Paul Beresford-Hill
Ambassador of the Mission of the Sovereign Order of Malta to the United Nations in New York
Wendy C,Li
Judge of the Civil Court of the
City of New York, Member of the Executive Boards of prestigious civic and professional organizations
Panel 2: Empowering Women & Children for Global Progress
Panel 2 explored the pivotal role of women and children in driving global progress, especially in the context of sustainable development and climate action. Iris Song, Executive President of the Global Climate Innovation Coalition (GCIC), underscored that empowering women and children is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic necessity for long-term growth. “The voices of women and children are crucial in the fight against climate change and achieving sustainable development goals,” she stated.
Moderated by Martin B. Svatek, United Nations Representative of ChildFund Alliance, the panel delved into the importance of gender equality and child welfare for sustainable development, economic growth, and social cohesion. Martin highlighted the critical role of empowering women and children, particularly girls, in challenging societal norms, advancing social justice, and strengthening families and communities.
Key insights from the panelists included:
- Meg Gardinier, Secretary General of ChildFund Alliance, emphasized the revolutionary role of children in history and their rights to participation, development, and protection. She advocated for youth empowerment and encouraged initiatives that prioritize the voices of young people as essential contributors to our shared future.
- Kathryn Marshall, a distinguished human rights lawyer and recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, discussed the intersection of gender equality and human rights. She stressed the need to understand the lived experiences of women in the workplace beyond legal frameworks and highlighted issues like sexual harassment and unfair labor practices. Her insights on the gig economy and new protections for workers in Canada were particularly impactful.
- H.E. Ambassador Paul Beresford-Hill, Ambassador of the Sovereign Order of Malta to the UN, spoke about the importance of international collaboration in empowering women and children. He emphasized that investing in their potential can serve as a catalyst for global progress and sustainable development.
- Wendy C. Li, Judge of the Civil Court of New York, shared her perspective on the role of judicial systems in protecting the rights of marginalized groups. She advocated for policies that support women and children, particularly those affected by domestic violence, poverty, and migration. Her focus on empowering women to secure a sustainable future for the next generations was both inspiring and thought-provoking.
The panel highlighted several real-world examples of women leading renewable energy projects, thereby enhancing community resilience and reducing carbon emissions. Speakers pointed out that in regions most vulnerable to climate change, women often manage critical resources, making their participation essential for driving innovation and ensuring equitable access to climate solutions. By investing in education and economic empowerment for women and children, especially young girls, we can cultivate the next generation of leaders capable of tackling global challenges.
The discussion also addressed systemic barriers hindering women’s involvement in decision-making processes, calling for policy reforms and international cooperation to advance gender equality. By empowering women and children, the panelists argued, we can transform them from being among the most vulnerable populations to becoming key leaders in climate and economic innovation.
Global Climate Innovation Challenge Finalist Showcase
During the luncheon, Global Climate Innovation Challenge Finalist Showcase took place, displaying top innovative projects combatting climate change across the globe.
Global Climate Innovator Challenge is a non-profit program aligned with the UN 2030 SDGs, offering a platform for climate innovators to showcase groundbreaking solutions and engage with a global sustainability community. It brings together changemakers, and decision-makers to advance climate solutions for our 1.5°C climate goal.
We received approximately 500 applications globally, selected 46 innovators across five categories, and invited the top 4 finalists to present their innovations at the Summit. One of these projects will be gifted for a cash prize. This program underscores our commitment to supporting climate innovation and advancing the transition to a sustainable future.
Roundtable Discussion 3:
Space Technologies Supports Sustainable Development on Earth
Panel Topic
This panel explores space industry progress-satellite tech, space travel, and global partnerships-and how they bolster global sustainability. lt covers space debris management, tech innovation, public-private partnerships, and inspiring Earth and space sustainability.
Somayajulu Dhulipala
(moderator)
PhD Candidate, MIT
Guest Speakers
Ariel Ekblaw
Jeffrey A.Hoffman
CEO at Aurelia Institute, GP at Aurelia Foundry, Founder, MIT Space Exploration Initiative
Former NASA astronaut;
NASA Distinguished Service
Medals; Active participant in
astronaut training and public
education; Professor at MIT
Sharon Hagle
Member, Space Force Association; Astronaut, BLUE ORIGIN; Founder and CEO of Space Kids Global
The space panel featured a distinguished group of experts, including former NASA astronaut Dr. Jeffrey A. Hoffman, Ariel Ekblaw, CEO of the Aurelia Institute, and Sharon Hagle, astronaut and founder of Space Kids Global.
MIT PhD candidate Somayajulu Dhulipala moderated the panel “Space Technologies Supporting Sustainable Development on Earth,” captivating audiences with discussions on how space innovations can contribute to long-term sustainability efforts on our planet.
The session kicked off by addressing the most pressing challenges in ensuring sustainability in space. Dr. Hoffman, who flew five NASA space missions, emphasized the increasing concern over space debris and the necessity of developing cleaner technologies for space exploration. He also discussed the possibility of using local resources on celestial bodies like Mars to minimize environmental damage and costs, highlighting the revolutionary Moxie project that successfully produced oxygen on Mars.
Ariel Ekblaw, a pioneering leader in space architecture, discussed the potential applications of modular space habitats in both space and Earth. Her insights focused on innovative technologies, such as reconfigurable, reusable space structures that could be repurposed on Earth to mitigate climate-related disasters. Ekblaw’s work exemplifies the dual benefits of space research—advancing exploration while offering solutions to Earth's challenges.
Sharon Hagle underscored the importance of public-private partnerships and education, emphasizing that fostering a new generation of space enthusiasts is key to sustaining innovation. Hagle’s Space Kids Global initiative reaches out to young students, inspiring them to participate in STEM education and engage in space science, ensuring that future space exploration is equitable and inclusive.
The discussion reaffirmed the connection between space exploration and Earth's sustainability. The panelists called for continued innovation, international collaboration, and public-private partnerships to ensure that advancements in space technology contribute to a sustainable future for both space and Earth.
Roundtable Discussion 4:
UN Collaboration with Local Governments
Panel Topic
This panel delves into the crucial UN-local government alliance in advancing SDGs nationally. It will discuss the pivotal role of these partnerships in converting SDGs into strategies that tackle local issues, foster innovation, and encourage sustainable development.
H.E.Mr.Cheikh Niang
(moderator)
Permanent Representative of the Republic of Senegal to the UN
Guest Speakers
Jamil Ahmad
H.E. Mr. Stan Oduma Smith
Director, Intergovernment
Affairs, UN Environment
Programme, New York Office
Permanent Representative of the Commonwealth of The Bahamasto the UN
H.E. Mrs. Cecilia Adeng
Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Sudan to the UN
H.E.Mr.Kairat Umarov
Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the UN
In an essential panel at the 2nd Annual GCIC Global Climate Innovation Summit, global leaders and experts gathered to explore how collaboration between the United Nations (UN) and local governments can advance sustainable development goals (SDGs) globally.
H.E. Mr. Cheikh Niang, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Senegal to the UN, moderated the session, “UN and Government Collaborations: Achieving Global Goals Locally.”
The panel featured esteemed participants, including H.E. Mrs. Cecilia Adeng, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Sudan to the UN; Jamil Ahmad, Director of Intergovernmental Affairs at the UN Environment Programme; H.E. Mr. Stan Oduma Smith, Permanent Representative of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to the UN; and H.E. Mr. Kairat Umarov, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the UN.
Throughout the discussion, panelists emphasized that while the UN sets ambitious global goals, real progress must happen at the local level.
Dr. Niang emphasized the crucial role of local governments in implementing the SDGs, given their embeddedness within their communities and their understanding of unique regional challenges. Localized implementation, paired with strong partnerships, will ensure meaningful impact.
Jamil Ahmad pointed out that only 17% of the SDGs are currently on track for achievement by 2030, highlighting the concerning gap between policy and action. Ahmad stressed the importance of collaboration with local authorities, especially in addressing climate change, biodiversity, loss, and waste management, as cities play a critical role in both contributing to and solving these issues.
At the same time, H.E. Mrs. Cecilia Adeng drew attention to the challenges facing post-conflict and developing nations like South Sudan, where institutional weaknesses and lack of resources hinder progress. She advocated for greater international support to build local capacity and emphasized the need for culturally inclusive policy frameworks.
H.E. Mr. Kairat Umarov and H.E. Mr. Stan Oduma Smith discussed the importance of innovative approaches and public-private partnerships. Umarov called for greater regional collaboration and efficient use of resources, while Smith highlighted the potential for the private sector to play a catalytic role in realizing the SDGs.
The panelists agreed that achieving global goals requires coordinated efforts across all levels of governance, with local governments at the forefront. Strengthening UN collaboration with local entities is vital to transforming global commitments into tangible outcomes that foster sustainable development.
Roundtable Discussion 5:
Investment and Business Opportunities in the Green Economy
Panel Topic
This panel explores green economy opportunities, focusing on sectors like sustainable agriculture, and strategies for businesses to transition to sustainability and benefit from green practices.
Martin B. Svatek
(moderator)
Business Strategist-CFO Office (Sustainability & Strategic Projects)
Guest Speakers
Meg Gardinier
Stephanie von Friedeburg
Former VP of RGM, PepsiCo
Managing Director, Citibank
Banking & Capital Markets Advisory; COO&Interim CEO,IFC
Nikita Singal
Sustainable Investment
Leader, most recently MD, Co-Head of Sustainable
Investment & ESG at Lazard
Asset Management
Filipe Blackwood Oliveira
Senior Executive Advisor to the CEO, SEforALL; GCMU-COP27; Founding Incubator, Global Carbon Market Utility
A key highlight of the 2nd Annual GCIC Global Climate Innovation Summit was the panel on “Investment and Business Opportunities in the Green Economy,” which featured insights from high-profile leaders in sustainable business.
The discussion was moderated by Elie B. Akili, a business strategist specializing in sustainability at UBS, and included Mohasin Mithu, former VP of Revenue Growth Management at PepsiCo; Nikita Singal, a sustainable investment leader and former Co-Head of Sustainable Investment and ESG at Lazard Asset Management; and Stephanie von Friedeburg, Managing Director at Citibank and former COO and interim CEO at the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
The conversation explored how the shift towards sustainability offers expansive business opportunities, from renewable energy to eco-friendly technologies. Elie Akili opened the discussion by emphasizing that businesses at the intersection of sustainability and economic progress are not only addressing climate challenges but positioning themselves for long-term success.
In addition, Nikita Singal stressed that businesses need to take climate change seriously, viewing it as both an environmental and economic imperative. She highlighted that mitigating climate change and addressing social inequalities require capital investment and long-term strategic focus.
On the other hand, Mohasin Mithu reflected on his experience at PepsiCo and underscored the need for businesses to incorporate sustainability into innovation. He pointed out the challenge of balancing costs and environmental impact, sharing that innovations such as transitioning to eco-friendly packaging, though costly, are essential for reducing the carbon footprint of companies.
At the same time, Stephanie von Friedeburg focused on the role of financial institutions, stating that Citibank has committed to $1 trillion in sustainable investment by 2030. She highlighted the need for collaboration between governments, businesses, and financial institutions to drive green investments globally, especially in emerging markets where the climate challenges are more acute.
The panel concluded with a clear message: the path to a sustainable global economy requires both bold innovation and strategic collaboration across sectors. While challenges such as balancing short-term financial gains with long-term sustainability goals remain, the panelists emphasized that businesses, investors, and governments must work together to drive the green transition. By integrating sustainability into core business strategies, fostering technological advancements, and creating inclusive regulatory frameworks, industries can not only mitigate climate risks but also unlock vast opportunities for growth. The conversation underscored the importance of adaptability and long-term vision in ensuring that investments in the green economy benefit both the planet and the bottom line.
The GCIC Global Climate Innovation Summit concluded with a resounding call to action, reinforcing its role as a leading international climate change conference. Held on September 6, 2024, at the Delegates Dining Room of the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, the summit gathered over 100 climate leaders and distinguished guests, including UN officials, global representatives, local government leaders, and prominent figures from various sectors.
This significant gathering provided an invaluable platform for collaboration, where thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers convened to address the urgent global challenges posed by climate change. Throughout the event, participants engaged in dynamic discussions, exploring innovative solutions and forging cross-sector partnerships to tackle contemporary issues.
The summit's impact extended beyond the event itself, leaving a legacy of inspiration and momentum. It highlighted the importance of empowering marginalized communities, leveraging cutting-edge technologies, and strengthening international cooperation to build a sustainable future. The insights shared and networks established at the GCIC Summit continue to influence global initiatives, paving the way for a more equitable and resilient world. As the event concluded, it was clear that the GCIC Summit has become a catalyst for ongoing efforts to drive meaningful action and shape the future of global climate innovation.
Summit in 2023
Global Climate Innovation Coalition (GCIC) held its annual Summit and Award Gala Dinner in New York City in March, 2023.
The summit featured prestigious keynote speakers, panel discussions, and a climate innovator showcase. Topics included energy resilience, accelerating decarbonization, local practices (dialogue with mayors and/or local authorities), climate talent education, green finance, and more. The Gala honored and awarded the organizations and individuals that made outstanding contributions to climate innovative solutions.
Summit Interview
