Agenda

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AGENDA

09 July – 11 July 2024

AUDITORIUM

SPEAKERS:

  1. Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, President of the Republic of Portugal (TBC)

  2. Luis Neves, CEO, GeSI

SPEAKERS:

  1. Giorgia Rambelli​, Director, Innovation Urban Transitions Mission
  2. Helena Freitas, Professor, UNESCO Chair
  3. Veerle Vandeweerd​, Co-founder Transforming Education Alliance, Former Director UNDP​

Following the high-level opening of the summit, this session will set the stage for the three day agenda of the Global Summit. Focusing on the four themes: Biodiversity, Education, Smart and Sustainable Cities and Sustainable Finance, the Programme Leads for each theme will discuss the main sustainability challenges and how transformation can occur through digitally enabled solutions. The preservation of our planet requires more effort and focus and there is a need to focus on how companies can become better solution providers for global sustainability needs. A shift away from a common rhetoric that focuses on finding ways to reduce negative impact of operations and value chains. This is an action focused summit, with a goal to create a “DWP Global Summit Commitment” to accelerate human-centric Innovation.

MODERATION: Manan Shah, Research, IT & Communication Advisor, FOGGS

SPEAKERS:

  1. David Beatty, Professor, University of Toronto
  2. Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario (2014-2023) and Former Executive Director, UNEP

This high-level opening session for the Education Track will reflect on the DwP 2023 Education Manifesto and set the scene for identifying key action needed to scale up transformative digital solutions in support of SDG 4, drawing from the keynote speaker’s real-life experiences and responding to the demands of younger generations.​

Speakers:

  1. Mrinalini Rai, Founder & Executive Director, Women4Biodiversity
  2. António de Sousa Abreu, Professor, UNESCO Chair at University of Coimbra

DWP 2024 ‘Biodiversity Futures’ programme will highlight the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), which was adopted at the fifteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 15), in December 2022. This framework outlines a comprehensive plan to conserve and restore the planet’s ecosystems by 2050, working towards 23 ambitious targets by 2030. This session will focus on Target 1: Plan and Manage all Areas To Reduce Biodiversity Loss; Target 2: Restore 30% of all Degraded Ecosystems and Target 3: Conserve 30% of Land, Waters and Seas​

SPEAKERS:

  1. Fernando Reino da Costa, CEO, Unipartner
  2. Nireeen Daoud, Director Sustainability Department, Greater Amman, Jordan
  3. Angelo Fienga, Director, Sustainable Solutions, Cisco EMEAR

Cities are leveraging digitalization to improve services and infrastructure efficiency but face risks like cybersecurity and privacy breaches. This session will address the challenges and opportunities of digitalization, focusing on sustainable smart city design and governance. It will also explore solutions for managing integration, interoperability, and data to mitigate vulnerabilities while enhancing urban systems.

SPEAKERS:

  1. Tim Vieira, Founder and CEO, Brave Generation Academy

This session will showcase transformative solutions developed or adopted by the private sector, public authorities or civil society to modernize education for the 21st century in support of SDG 4. It will identify actionable, verifiable and replicable steps to drastically change how and what we teach and learn, and promote impactful collaboration and innovation to that end. ​
 

SPEAKERS:

  1. Doug Arent, Executive Director, Strategic Public-Private Partnerships, National Renewable Energy Laboratory
  2. Mark Atherton, Director of Environment, Greater Manchester Combined Authority

The push for decarbonization increases electricity demand and system complexity. Cities are using digitalization and AI to optimize energy systems and integrate renewables. However, these technologies raise environmental concerns, such as high energy and water use. This session will discuss using digitalization and AI to enhance energy efficiency while mitigating their environmental impact.​

SPEAKERS: 

  1. Helen Roy, Ecologist, UK Center for Ecology & Hidrology

DWP 2024 ‘Biodiversity Futures’ programme will highlight the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), which was adopted at the fifteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 15), in December 2022. This framework outlines a comprehensive plan to conserve and restore the planet’s ecosystems by 2050, working towards 23 ambitious targets by 2030. This session will focus on Target 4: Halt Species Extinction, Protect Genetic Diversity, and Manage Human-Wildlife Conflicts; Target 5: Ensure Sustainable, Safe and Legal Harvesting and Trade of Wild Species and Target 9: Manage Wild Species Sustainably To Benefit People​

SPEAKERS:

  1. Humberto Rosa, Director, DG Environment, European Commission
  2. Massimo Labra, Scientific Director, National Biodiversity Future Center
  3. Bruno Oberle, Director General, IUCN
  4. Kate Meyer, Founder and CEO, Planetary Accounting
  5. Alberto di Minin, Chief Innovation Officer, National Biodiversity Future Center 

DWP 2024 ‘Biodiversity Futures’ programme will highlight the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), which was adopted at the fifteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 15), in December 2022. This framework outlines a comprehensive plan to conserve and restore the planet’s ecosystems by 2050, working towards 23 ambitious targets by 2030. This session will focus on Target 15: Businesses Assess, Disclose and Reduce Biodiversity-Related Risks and Negative Impacts; Target 18: Reduce Harmful Incentives by at Least $500 Billion per Year, and Scale Up Positive Incentives for Biodiversity and Target 19: Mobilize $200 Billion per Year for Biodiversity From all Sources, Including $30 Billion Through International Finance​

This session will address how digitalization aids cities in combating climate change by improving early warning systems and enhancing local resilience through monitoring,modeling,and digital twins. It will discuss the challenges of developing these digital solutions, the costs involved, and the consequences of inaction. The session will also showcase how technology can foster community engagement, decision-making, and resilience.

SPEAKERS:

  1. Roland Jan Meijer, Secretary General, Globe EU
  2. François Taddei, Director, Learning Planet Institute

This session will report on concrete measures to activate the Manifesto DwP 2023, based on the outcomes of the education workshops. It will identify essential scaling-up factors, announce significant partnerships, set clear, achievable targets to advance SDG4, and engage digital education tech companies in the DwP initiative.​

INNOVATION STAGE

Speakers:

  1. Doug Arent, Executive Director, Strategic Public-Private Partnerships, National Renewable Energy Laboratory

Dr. Arent’s presentation will explore the forefront of clean energy innovation, focusing on how emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and cybersecurity are revolutionizing energy systems. He will discuss distributed generation and integrated energy systems, emphasizing their impact across various sectors including power, buildings, mobility, chemicals, and fuels.

Additionally, Dr. Arent will highlight the critical role these technologies play in enhancing economic prosperity and expanding energy access. His talk will illustrate how these advancements not only improve energy efficiency but also drive economic growth and support sustainable development across global communities.

SPEAKERS:

  1. Michael Wachira, CEO, Virtual Essence

SPEAKERS:

  1. Tim Vieira, Founder and CEO, Brave Generation Academy

Join Tim Vieira, the visionary founder of Brave Generation Academy (BGA), for an enlightening discussion on revolutionising education. Tim will delve into the ethos and mission behind BGA, highlighting its innovative approach to learning and its transformative impact on Learners worldwide. From the inception of BGA to its global expansion, Tim will share insights into how BGA is reshaping the educational landscape, providing Learners with a holistic and personalised educational experience. Discover how BGA goes beyond traditional teaching methods, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and global citizenship. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of BGA’s philosophy and the future of education.

SPEAKERS:

  1. Marcela Nacif, Head of Education, Brave Generation Academy

Join Marcela Nacif, BGA’s Head of Education, for an engaging talk on Brave Future, Brave Generation Academy’s NGO arm. Learn about their impactful initiatives in unstable regions, including a BGA Hub in Kakuma Refugee Camp and support for Learners in Gaza. Explore how BGA and Brave Future combine to offer an alternative form of education where traditional avenues fall short, providing hope and opportunities to those in need.

WORKSHOPS

WORKSHOP CONFERENCE ROOM 1 - BIODIVERSITY

SPEAKERS:

  1. João Gomes, Director, FCCN Advanced Services
  2. Mrinalini Rai Founder & Executive, Director, Women4Biodiversity
  3. Susana Viseu, Founder, Business as Nature

DWP 2024 ‘Biodiversity Futures’ programme will highlight the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), which was adopted at the fifteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 15), in December 2022. This framework outlines a comprehensive plan to conserve and restore the planet’s ecosystems by 2050, working towards 23 ambitious targets by 2030. This session will focus on Target 13: Increase the Sharing of Benefits From Genetic Resources, Digital Sequence Information and Traditional Knowledge; Target 23: Ensure Gender Equality and a Gender-Responsive Approach for Biodiversity Action and Target 11: Restore, Maintain and Enhance Nature’s Contributions to People​.

​DWP 2024 ‘Biodiversity Futures’ programme will highlight the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), which was adopted at the fifteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 15), in December 2022. This framework outlines a comprehensive plan to conserve and restore the planet’s ecosystems by 2050, working towards 23 ambitious targets by 2030. This session will focus on Target 10: Enhance Biodiversity and Sustainability in Agriculture, Aquaculture, Fisheries, and Forestry; Target 8: Minimize the Impacts of Climate Change on Biodiversity and Build Resilience; Target 20: Strengthen Capacity-Building, Technology Transfer, and Scientific and Technical Cooperation for Biodiversity and Target 17: Strengthen Biosafety and Distribute the Benefits of Biotechnology.

SPEAKERS: 

  1. David Roy, Head of the Biological Records Centre, UK Centre for Ecology & Hidrology
  2. Filipa Bessa, Researcher, University of Coimbra
  3. Sarah E. Huebner, Researcher, Snapshot Safari and University of Minnesota/Zooniverse

DWP 2024 ‘Biodiversity Futures’ programme will highlight the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), which was adopted at the fifteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 15), in December 2022. This framework outlines a comprehensive plan to conserve and restore the planet’s ecosystems by 2050, working towards 23 ambitious targets by 2030. This session will focus on Target 6: Reduce the Introduction of Invasive Alien Species by 50% and Minimize Their Impact; Target 7: Reduce Pollution to Levels That Are Not Harmful to Biodiversity and Target 22: Ensure Participation in Decision-Making and Access to Justice and Information Related to Biodiversity for all​.

WORKSHOP CONFERENCE ROOM 2 - EDUCATION

POWERED BY: Sea Monster

SPEAKERS:

  1. Glenn Gillis, CEO, Sea Monster
  2. António Câmara, Professor, Nova School of Science and Technology
  3. Alan Gershenfeld, President and Co-founder, E-Line Media
  4. Jeferson Valadares, VP, Corporate Development, Fortis games 

Explore and activate the potential of the gaming industry for educational advancement. We will dive into how gaming technologies can be harnessed for the greater good, focusing on leveraging their engaging formats for learning purposes.
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SPEAKERS:

  1. Michael Wachira, CEO, Virtual Essence
  2. Maria Gajdarova, Representative, Raina Kniaginia Secondary School, Bulgaria
  3. Paul Byrne, Secretary General, ESHA
  4. Deborah Snoeren, Educational advisor, School NOUR Primary Education
  5. Leendert – Jan Velthuyzen, Executive Board Member, Stichting Kolom
  6. Álvaro Almeida dos Santos, Headmaster, Headmasters’ and Headmistresses’ Conference
  7. Jeanette Kuipers, Director Hasselbraam en Kleine Braam, Allente

Workshop aimed at bridging the gap between school needs and digital solutions.This session brings together educators, school administrators, and tech providers to foster dialogue, share insights, and explore partnerships. We’ll focus on aligning educational requirements with innovative digital tools and services,fostering a mutual understanding to enhance the learning experience.

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POWERED BY: Brave Generation Academy

SPEAKERS:

  1. Tim Vieira, Founder and CEO, Brave Generation Academy
  2. Michael Wachira, CEO, Virtual Essence

Join us for a dynamic workshop on turnkey solutions tailored to meet the challenges of the modern educational landscape. We’ll be delving into a wide range of issues impacting education at every level.

This workshop is not just about identifying problems—it’s about sparking innovation and driving meaningful change. With input from directors of education spanning different age groups and visionaries leading the charge for educational reform, our discussions promise to be insightful, forward-thinking, and inspiring.

In this interactive session, our esteemed panelists will share their expertise and explore cutting-edge strategies to tackle these challenges head-on. Together, we’ll uncover actionable insights to revolutionize the way we learn.

Coming soon

SPEAKERS:

  1. Georgios Kostakos, Co-founder and Executive Director, FOGGS
  2. David Beatty, Professor, University of Toronto
  3. Niraj Bhargava, CEO, NuEnergy.ai

The dramatic rise of generative AI and it potential to upend education, life and livelihood systems warrants a close examination of the current state of affairs and emerging trends. Students can be assisted in learning but also in cheating in schools by AI, but they also need to understand how it works, how to use it and even how to programme it. What practical and ethical criteria need to be set in order to maximise the potential and minimise the negative aspects of Gen AI? This initial discussion sponsored by the DWP Movement will bring together AI experts, Ed Tech entrepreneurs, school teachers, students and other stakeholders to create mutual understanding and start work towards the necessary standards. 

WORKSHOP CONFERENCE ROOM 3 - smart cities

SPEAKERS: 

  1. Nireeen Daoud, Director Sustainability Department, Greater Amman, Jordan 

This session will explore digital solutions for bridging social divides, focusing on participation, education, and inclusiveness in cities. It aims to prevent digital inequalities and includes role-playing to test community-focused solutions. The target audience includes policymakers, urban planners, and tech innovators.
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SPEAKERS:

  1. Doug Arent, Executive Director, Strategic Public-Private Partnerships, National Renewable Energy Laboratory
  2. Mark Atherton, Director of Environment, Greater Manchester Combined Authority 

The session will provide real-time insights for policymakers through a digital twins demonstration for selected cities, discussing data access and forecasting with examples of data-driven policymaking.

Moderated discussion bringing together UTM cities, private sector and academia partners. Innovation leaders and solutions providers are invited to share their insights on next steps and essential R&I and deployment priorities identified.

ROUNDTABLES

Roundtables encourage interaction and participation from all attendees, fostering a collaborative atmosphere. Join us in this informal and intimate discussion (limited to 10 participants) where participants have the unique opportunity to meet and learn from experts.

Registration required due to the limited number of seats available.

Speakers:

  1. Henrique Pereira, Co-director, German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research

Speakers:

  1. Doug Arent, Executive Director, Strategic Public-Private Partnerships, National Renewable Energy Laboratory

This round table will focus on the necessary steps for translating ambitions into implementation plans by using a use case of Los Angeles, and their progress on achieving Mayor Garcetti’s vision for a 100% renewable energy city. 

Speakers:

  1. Cristina Luís, Researcher and Lecturer at Faculdade de Ciências, University of Lisbon

Speakers:

  1. Luís Brito e Faro, Expansion Manager, Brave Generation Academy

Speakers:

  1. David Beatty, Professor, University of Toronto

NIGHT SUMMIT DIALOGUES

The Dialogues will be hosted at the Sommer House (city centre) and will be open for the general public.

Speakers:

  1. David Beatty, Professor, University of Toronto

SPEAKERS:

  1. Nizar Kammourie, CEO, Sawaco Water Group

The urgency surrounding water scarcity demands a paradigm shift in how we manage this precious resource. Traditional approaches often fall short in addressing the complexities of water management in the face of climate change and growing demand. We need innovative strategies that harness the power of technology to optimize water usage and ensure sustainability.Imagine a future where advanced sensors, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics work together to provide real-time insights into water usage and availability. With such technologies, we can monitor water sources, detect leaks in pipelines, and optimize irrigation systems with unprecedented accuracy. This level of precision not only conserves water but also reduces costs and enhances overall efficiency.
Furthermore, digital solutions offer opportunities for better water governance and decision-making. By creating integrated platforms that centralize data from various sources, stakeholders can collaboratively manage water resources more effectively. Whether it’s government agencies, private companies, or local communities, everyone can contribute to a comprehensive understanding of water dynamics and implement targeted solutions.
But technology alone is not enough. We also need to foster a culture of water conservation and responsible usage. Education and awareness campaigns play a crucial role in empowering individuals and communities to adopt sustainable practices. From simple actions like fixing leaks and using water-saving appliances to larger-scale initiatives like rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling, every effort counts in mitigating water scarcity.