Pioneering a Sustainable Future: DIFC to Host Second Edition of Future Sustainability Forum

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), a key financial hub across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA), has revealed plans for the second edition of the Future Sustainability Forum. Set for December 4-5, 2024, at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, the event aims to promote sustainable practices and facilitate crucial discussions on environmental conservation, social equity, and innovation, all in line with global sustainability efforts.

This announcement highlights DIFC’s dedication to supporting the UAE’s sustainability agenda. Complementary to the Forum is the DIFC Sustainable Finance Catalyst initiative, which targets over $100 billion in sustainable finance from Dubai by 2030, further aligning with the nation’s broader green finance strategy.

Taking place around the first anniversary of COP28 in the UAE, the Forum expects more than 3,000 participants, including industry leaders, investors, and policymakers. The event will drive collaboration to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and contribute to the objectives of the Paris Agreement. A key focus will be the bridging of investment between the global north and south, accelerating climate action across borders.

Alya Al Zarouni, Chief Operating Officer of the DIFC Authority and Co-Chair of the Dubai Sustainable Finance Working Group, emphasized the importance of the Forum. She expressed that it represents a pivotal moment for fostering collaborative solutions to environmental and social challenges in today’s evolving economic landscape. She noted DIFC’s role in bringing together key stakeholders to explore new opportunities for resilience and sustainability, particularly in the financial services sector.

Dr. Bernd van Linder, CEO of Commercial Bank of Dubai, the event’s presenting sponsor, shared the bank’s pride in backing the UAE’s sustainability goals through its involvement in the Forum. He pointed to the successful issuance of their first green bond as an example of their commitment to addressing environmental issues and aligning with global sustainability standards.

The Forum will tackle critical sustainability themes across eight core sectors, including banking and finance, renewable energy, transportation, waste management, and agriculture. With over 100 expert speakers on the agenda, the event will feature the Climate Action & Renewable Energy Expo (CARE), showcasing the most cutting-edge solutions from across the globe.

Government initiatives in the UAE, such as the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, UAE Net Zero 2050, and UAE Vision 2070, continue to play a significant role in steering the country towards a net-zero future. These programs emphasize renewable energy adoption, water conservation, sustainable urban development, and waste reduction as key pillars of the nation’s long-term sustainability strategy.

Have you read?
Countries: Women in the workforce.
Countries: Personal space.
World’s Most (And Least) Religious Countries.
Best Countries to Invest In Travel, Tourism, and Hospitality.
Most Forested Countries In The World.