Island of Hope at COP28

Join 10 more global Climatetech companies from the GovTech Global Alliance COP28 Global Scale Up Programme. With a combination of live and recorded pitches our entrepreneurs will show how their technologies and mindsets can help the public sector and corporations address the climate crisis challenges and obligations, as well as provide scalable propositions for investors. This ClimateTech showcase is the culmination of a three month virtual programme where our global network of government innovation teams work together to help innovative companies access public sector networks around the world.

Bermuda has been proactive in its fight to future proof its socio-economic systems. The territory is developing blue economy programmes, leveraging local renewable energy opportunities, and collaborating with other governments to identify new pathways towards resilience-building. His Excellency Edward David Burt, Premier, Government of Bermuda discusses this and more in this keynote.

Bermuda is known for its pink sand beaches, robust insurance and reinsurance industry and world-class financial regulator. These foundational pillars have enabled this isolated island to become a world-class financial center and high-end tourism destination, but as volatility has shaken the global financial markets, Bermuda has been forced to diversify and rethink its strategy to enable economic growth. This panel will highlight innovative companies and projects that signal the blossoming of a new paradigm in Bermuda that embraces our blue economy, unique ecosystems and heritage, and leverages our blue-chip financial reputation to attract world-class companies who are building the foundation of a new Innovation Hub in the North Atlantic.

President Dr. Sultan al Jaber issued a call for Multilateral Development Banks  to lead with ambition to deliver the financing needed for climate finance. Join us as Dr. Gene Leon, President of the Caribbean Development Bank discusses the implications for the region.

Tourism is a pillar of island economies and finding ways of making it more sustainable is a key challenge that many communities are stepping up to. Hon. Carlos James, Minister of Tourism, Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines highlights the latest opportunities being developed.

This session will provide insights into the transformative power of philanthropy in unlocking public/private collaboration to drive innovative solutions to address climate risks in  coastal areas. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how such public/private philanthropic collaborations can unlock finance, action and innovation to build resilient coastal
communities and protect valuable ecosystems in the face of climate change.

• How can philanthropy unlock the essential public/private finance and action?
• Why is philanthropy critical for innovation in this space?
• What examples of philanthropy enabled innovation are we seeing?
• How should philanthropy work with the public and private sector to scale the resilience solutions we need?

This keynote address delivered by the Hon. Kavydass Ramano, Minister of Environment, Government of Mauritius will highlight the efforts being made by island governments to protect their environment and build resilience through sustainable means. 

This session will delve into the exciting world of sustainable energy solutions, with a particular focus on wind, solar, and wave power systems integrated into the blue economy. Our discussion will also explore the innovative concept of converting ships into floating power systems and connecting floating microgrids to islands and coastal communities. By harnessing the power of renewable energy sources and the mobility of marine vessels, we are paving the way for a more resilient and eco-friendly energy landscape. Join us as we navigate the waters of renewable energy and the blue economy to build a cleaner and more sustainable future for all.

• How important is technology in climate resilience and adaptation?
• What categories of renewable energy sources play a key role in climate resilience and adaptation for islands and coastal communities?
• In what ways can sustainable energy solutions be integrated into the blue economy?
• How can a more resilient and eco-friendly energy landscape be created for islands?

Guernsey's path to creating a world-leading recycling program is intricately linked to embracing the circular economy model. The panellists will focus on key elements of this model, such as waste reduction, resource optimisation, and sustainable practices, There will also be a discussion on how Guernsey has built a recycling ecosystem that sets global
standards.

• What are the key components of the circular economic model?
• How can community practices be better supported?
• What are the major challenges faced when developing a circular economy approach?
• What are the crucial aspects of Guernsey’s recycling ecosystem that make it so successful?

The need for rapid action and financial solutions to accelerate the energy transition is a critical element for SIDS who are actively dealing with the consequences of climate change. The best way forward includes leveraging private and public investment, as Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator CEO and UNFCCC Ambassador for Net Zero Racquel Moses will highlight.

A key resource that islanders can leverage, the ocean has a range of applications capable of providing sustainable economic growth. Join us on Day 3 of Island of Hope as we dive into the Blue Economy, Biodiversity, & the Ocean.

This session will aim to support advancing the well-being of island economies, bolstering climate resilience, and championing ocean conservation. A curated panel of industry experts, community leaders, and leading sustainability professionals will share learnings, best practices, and obstacles we need to overcome to scale solutions globally. The panel will be curated to underscore the paramount importance of responsible tourism in advancing climate resiliency and safeguarding our fragile ecosystems, particularly within island economies. The session will emphasise the necessity of collaboration and shared learning to achieve these crucial goals.

• What are some of the obstacles to take into consideration when seeking to scale solutions?
• How can responsible tourism advance climate resiliency?
• Why are collaboration and shared learning regarded as necessary steps in achieving economic resilience?
• What are the best ways to facilitate the adoption of sustainable tourism practices?

One of the many realities faced by islands is the need to manage and secure its marine resources, but this often has its own set of  constraints and issues. The effects of climate change are actively affecting the ocean, and in turn adding another layer of challenges. 

The event will demonstrate ways in which youth are leading the drive for greater climate ambition and climate adaptation. It will explore particularly the value of capacity building, networks and peer to peer exchange for youth from large ocean states as participants in the Peace Boat US “Youth for SDGs” program, which was officially endorsed by IOC UNESCO as a Contribution to the UN Ocean Decade, as well as Peace Boat’s Ocean and Climate Youth Ambassador program. The event will explore collaborations with governments, civil society and academia, looking at how youth can contribute to public engagement, education and awareness for political change.

• How can youth best contribute to enhancing capacity building to fight climate change?
• What role can youth play in the attainment of the climate adaptation goals of large ocean states?
• How can governments, civil society and academia best collaborate to help youth?
• How can youth facilitate public engagement, education and awareness about the SDGs?

This session provides an insightful and actionable overview of how EbA can contribute to climate resilience and the sustainable management of natural resources. It will highlight the importance of collaboration, innovation, and steadfast commitment to make EbA a central element in our efforts to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change.

• Ecosystem restoration - mangrove reforestation, coral reef protection etc.
• The benefits of scaling up ecosystems beyond climate resilience, i.e water quality and food security.
• Nature-based solutions and practical steps for restoration

Opening Keynote: Christine Scipio, Minister for Environment, Natural Resources and Planning, Government of St Helena

Climate finance has long been a major consideration and negotiation point throughout the history of COPs, we sit down with former Principal Director of Climate Change for the Jamaican government, Una May Gordon to take stock of the progress made, and what to look forward to. 

This session will inspire discussions and actions aimed at nurturing our marine resources responsibly and sustainably. The session will provide a platform for dialogue among diverse stakeholders, with the goal of maximising the benefits and addressing the challenges presented by our oceans during the Ocean Decade.

• Ocean Decade - advancement of ocean science
• Protection of marine ecosystems
• International collaboration to address the global ocean challenges
• Blue economy - balancing economic development with conservation

This session will provide a holistic view of the potential for green job development in the face of climate change. Participants will gain insights into how sustainable economic growth can be harnessed to create a more secure and vibrant future for coastal communities. The obstacles governments and societies face to move at scale in this vital sector will also be discussed in depth.

• The importance of green job creation from the government perspective
• How can green job creation create new significant revenue streams for societies and governments?
• What will be the impact of the shift in human resources in islands and coastal communities?
• How can the challenges of lack of skills and short timelines to meet demand be resolved?

William Mason, Director-General of the Guernsey Financial Services Commission discusses the importance of balanced regulation to support and implement environmental benefits and actions. He will also discuss the intersection between environmental and social issues.

Water and food security are growing concerns across the world as climate change impacts continue to take hold. Developments in agriculture and the circular economy are providing insight into protecting these valuable resources - welcome to Day 3 of Islands of Hope, where we will focus on Agriculture, Water & Food Security, and the Circular Economy.

This session will see the IUCN World Commission on Environmental Law present the interim results of a project co-produced with the Government of Vanuatu. The project maps the regulatory frameworks of Vanuatu related to the promotion of renewables and sets out policy recommendations aimed at increasing renewable energy penetration in Vanuatu hence supporting the island nation’s climate change ambitions. The event will further open up a discussion on how boosting renewables within island nations and island communities can be done in a way that does not undermine nature, both on land and in the seas.

• What are the key insights into the key findings and policy recommendations from the project mapping?
• How do these recommendations align with the nation's climate change goals?
• How can the promotion of renewable energy be achieved in a manner that simultaneously supports climate action and conservation of nature?
• In what ways can the lessons and experiences from Vanuatu's efforts to increase renewable energy penetration serve as a valuable blueprint for other island nations and communities?

A former capital markets lawyer, Sangeeta Laudus now acts as a Strategic Communications Advisor for a number of clients, with a particular focus on ESG, conservation and the environment. Part of the City of London Corporation’s “Road to COP26” programme, and harbouring a strong interest on video messaging, Laudus recently co-produced a documentary for the Cayman Islands Government Office in the UK entitled “Saving the Blues” which featured the recovery of the blue iguanas from extinction. Join us as she discusses how visual storytelling and communications can be used to improve climate policy.

Climate change has more than just a physical impact on the environment - it also affects communities themselves. We sit down with Luciano Doest, who will break down how pervasive climate change impacts can be.

Energy independence and the transition away from fossil fuels are two intertwined agenda items for island leaders seeking to accelerate their adaptation and mitigation programmes. Minister Quincia Gumbs-Marie, Minister of Sustainability, Innovation and the Environment, Government of Anguilla describes just how islands can reach this goal.

Building climate resilience through food security is a critical and multifaceted endeavour that addresses the intersecting challenges of climate change and global hunger. As our climate becomes increasingly unpredictable and extreme, it poses a significant threat to food production and distribution systems, often affecting the most vulnerable communities.

• Creating a resilient food supply
• Agritech innovators and adaptive farming practices
• Sustainable water management
• How can regenerative agriculture provide economic prosperity for future generations

The global we connects new voices across the globe in conversation on climate issues and solutions, highlighting the impact that the crisis has had on local communities through provoking video content. Join us as Anemone Birkebaek, Director for UN live discusses the platform . 

Advancing inclusive climate action is an imperative in our collective effort to address the profound challenges of climate change. Inclusive climate action fosters equity and social justice, as it strives to mitigate the disparities in climate vulnerability and ensures that no one is left behind in the transition to a more sustainable future. It embraces diverse voices, promotes sustainable development, and empowers individuals and communities to take ownership of their climate resilience.

• Ensuring climate policy is inclusive
• Gender-responsive climate action, leaving no one behind
• Case study examples of how coastal and island communities have taken actions
• How can collaboration further advance inclusive climate action?

As food system actors across the value chain, including consumers, become increasingly aware of the impact their purchasing choices make, there is a growing need for a food label system capable of highlighting how sustainable products are right from the farm to fork. By bringing scientists, entrepreneurs and industry players together, Foundation Earth has created a robust, replicable labelling system able to do just that. Foundation Earth CEO Cliona Howie sits down with us to explain just how they’ve pulled it off.

Discussing the importance of data in assessing the water-energy nexus within an island setting. The session will be an opportunity to explore water and energy within the wider context of administration, collaboration and innovation, which are the three themes of the I IWRA Islands Water Congress that will take place in the Faroe Islands in September 2024. The session will also be an opportunity to explore how the OPTICA-supported Global Environmental Measurement and Monitoring (GEMM) Initiative can support islands in addressing their water and energy challenges and opportunities.

• What are the specific challenges and opportunities islands face in the context of water and energy administration, collaboration, and innovation, and how can these be addressed effectively?
• How does the utilisation of data play a crucial role in assessing the water-energy nexus within an island setting?
• What are the implications of data use for sustainable resource management?
• The role of collaboration in advancing island anergy and water management

Showcasing four projects that aim to support islands decarbonisation. In particular, the session will interrogate how such projects are designed in order for the pilots to have a transformative power for positive climate action beyond the pilots themselves. The session will also explore how such projects may be relevant for non-island stakeholders.

• What are the key strategies and design principles being explored?
• How have the main challenges to date been overcome?
• What aspects of the approach can be adapted for wider application beyond the specific island settings?

The Minister of Environment for the Government of Jersey Jonathan Renouf gives insight into how the island is approaching its carbon reduction and climate resilience planning.

What is the best pathway for funding climate mitigation and adaptation projects for Subnational Island Jurisdictions (SNIJ)? What blueprints exist for strategic planning on locally based sustainable development programmes? Empowerment of SNIJs can go a long way in creating efficient policies capable of ensuring long-term adaptation, as this panel will highlight.

The climate justice movement has grown as communities become increasingly aware of the inequalities exacerbated by the climate crisis - but what is it exactly, and why is it important to address it?

Keen to find workable sustainable housing solutions for the Bahamas following the destruction caused by Hurricane Dorian in 2019, Rick Fox founded Partanna, a carbon-negative housing company that is making strides in the building industry.

The role of education as a key driver in providing resources and inspiration to drive positive change. Introducing the top attendees of the Caribbean Climate Justice Leadership Academy. Positive case studies / examples of young island leaders who are shaping the future of tomorrow, showcasing youth-led initiatives. This session aims to deepen the understanding of the critical connection between coastal biodiversity, climate change, and the associated risks while highlighting conservation strategies and collaborative efforts that can help protect these vital ecosystems. Participants will leave with a broader perspective on the importance of preserving coastal biodiversity for a sustainable and resilient future.

• How can education play a pivotal role in equipping young leaders with the necessary resources and inspiration?
• In what ways do these youth-led initiatives exemplify the potential for transformative change and innovative solutions in addressing climate justice issues in the Caribbean?
• How can they inspire broader engagement and collaboration in the region?
• Success stories or case studies of young leaders who have emerged from the Academy, what lessons can be learned from their experiences?

The transition away from fossil fuels creates a range of opportunities for communities to tap into cheaper, more efficient local options - but these are rarely easy changes to implement. On islands, renewable energy sources are often readily identifiable but difficult to tap into, but as Andrew Halliday, Director, Policy and Planning Environment, Energy and Climate Action, Government of Prince Edward Island, Canada puts forth, it is possible.

Title: How water filters made from nuts can help communities access quality water

In many South African communities, water shortages and scarcity often dictate daily life – from drinking and safe sanitation to outbreaks of cholera. Using macadamia nuts and nano-technology, watch how a local man invented a new water filtration system that is scaling up water access to rural areas.

 

Tackling the climate crisis means empowering youth through education, enabling youth advocates to drive sustainability and crucial climate action at all levels of governance. Taking a look at youth success stories and their engagement in policy, we speak to Rachel Ojo, Head UK Youth Delegate to COP28.

Energy poverty is a challenge for millions of refugees and displaced people - but particularly for women. Affordable, inclusive solutions can tackle gender inequality and change lives. Solutions like efficient stoves that make cooking safer, and cut time spent collecting firewood. Or solar technology that brings women better healthcare, and powers female-run businesses. Hear from refugees on the impact of these solutions, and how businesses, funders and others can take action to scale them up. This session will be packed with inspiring short films, personal stories, and great examples of frontline innovation.

• Climate change and energy poverty disproportionately impact women refugees and internally displaced people. What is life without energy like?
• What impact do solutions have and what’s holding them back?
• Why are locally driven, grassroots solutions more effective?
• How can funders and international businesses use power up these solutions?

Pacific Youth and elders play a key role in enhancing and building

community resilience. Traditional knowledge held and practised by our

elders and our communities can contribute to resolving many of the national and global challenges faced by society today.By actively advocating and developing innovative ways such as integrating traditional knowledge practices and technology to monitor impacts of climate change, our youth have been collecting scientific information to help inform decisions and contribute to scientific research. This session will focus on sharing experiences from the Pacific on the work on traditional knowledge, the role of youth in integrating technology and traditional knowledge enhance Pacific community resilience

• Examples of how traditional knowledge, has been successfully integrated with modern technology to monitor and address the impacts of climate change 

• What are some specific outcomes or lessons learned from these initiatives?

• How do Pacific youth actively advocate for and participate in the preservation and application of traditional knowledge within their communities? 

• How can the fusion of traditional knowledge and technology be applied to enhance community resilience on a global scale?