Banda la Maenyesho la UNEP kwa COP28

15:00 - 16:15
Opening Ceremony

The UNEP Pavilion showcases solutions to the climate crisis and sheds light on the role of robust science and data, transparency, and the imperative of leaving no one behind.

The opening ceremony celebrates the opening of a UNEP-wide pavilion at COP28 and sets the pace and objectives of the pavilion for the duration of COP28 and its associated high impact events.

Speakers

• Inger Andersen, Executive Director, UNEP
• Rocky Dawuni, Singer-songwriter
• Golestan (Sally) Radwan, Chief Digital Officer, UNEP
• Joshua Aslan, Senior Manager, Sony Interactive Entertainment

UN Environment Programme works across a range of key areas, including tourism, eco-innovation, eco-labelling, consumer information and corporate sustainability reporting, to contribute to more sustainable, more responsible industrial practices. This day will focus on levers and pathways for rapid decarbonization, job growth, and economic opportunity and just transition across the full energy and industrial value chains.

11:45 - 12:30
Assessing the fossil fuel production gap: Key messages from the Production Gap Report 2023

Plans for fossil fuel production remain dangerously out of sync with Paris Agreement targets. Following the launch of the Production Gap Report 2023, this side event facilitates a discussion on the discrepancy between governments' fossil fuel production plans and the global production levels necessary to limit warming to 1.5°C or 2°C.This event will share the perspectives of a variety of different stakeholders, and discuss what it will take to achieve a just energy transition.

Panelists

• Niklas Hagelberg, Senior Programme Coordinator-UNEP
• Ploy Pattanun Achakulwisut, Research Fellow, Stockholm Environment Institute
• Dr. Moustapha Kamal Gueye, ILO Coordinator of the Green Jobs Programme
• H.E Omar Andres Camacho, Minister of Mines and Energy, Colombia

14:00 - 14:45
Methane data revolution: The road to radical transparency

This event will showcase the first public release of data from UNEP’s Methane Alert and Response System (MARS) and unpack how advanced remote sensing is providing the transparency needed for governments, companies and civil society to deliver methane progress and achieve the goals of the Global Methane Pledge. The event will also launch the 2023 edition of International Methane Emissions Observatory Annual Report, which provides an analysis of the methane emissions data submitted by companies under the OGMP2.0 assessing the progress made to reduce methane emissions.

Panelists

• Inger Andersen, Executive Director, UN Environment Programme
• Giulia Ferrini, Transparency Lead, UN Environment Programme’s International Methane Emissions Observatory
• Fred Krupp, President, Environmental Defense Fund
• H. E. Mr. Balarabe Abbas Lawal, Minister of Environment, Nigeria
• Ms. Ditte Juul Jørgensen, Director-General, Directorate-General for Energy, European Commission
• H. E. Mr. Nizar Mohammed Saeed Amidi, Minister of Environment, Iraq

15:15 - 16:00
Decarbonization and detoxification: Linkages and opportunities for integrated actions

The chemicals sector is the largest industrial energy consumer and the third largest industry subsector in terms of direct CO2 emissions. Many chemicals that are produced and utilized can have impacts on the environment and climate, with climate change in turn increasing the toxicity of some chemicals and amplifying their releases into the environment. Yet chemicals are often overlooked in climate discussions. The side event will emphasize the scientific evidence for the complex linkages between climate change and chemical pollution and identify opportunities for taking synergistic actions to address interlinked environmental crises.

Panelists

• Rolph Payet, Executive Secretary, Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions
• H.E. Iordanca-Rodica Iordanov, Minister of Environment, Republic of Moldova
• Nicola Rega, Executive Director Climate Change and Energy, International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA)
• Ruth Do Coutto, OiC, Chief, Energy and Climate Branch, Industry and Economy Division, United Nations Environment Programme
• Lisa Koperqualuk, Vice-Chair, Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC)
• Monika Stankiewicz, Executive Secretary, Minamata Convention on Mercury

16:30 - 17:15
Shaping a Climate-Resilient World for the 21st Century

The urgent need for ambitious climate action extends beyond developing countries, encompassing all nations. Enhanced cooperation and a new approach to climate diplomacy are essential. The event focuses on industry and the private sector's role in climate diplomacy and empowerment for least developed countries. The event aims to reshape conversations, renew commitments, and promote developing countries and LDCs as hubs for innovation, sustainable technologies, and innovative financing. It emphasizes the importance of technology empowerment and financial innovation in building resilience and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda for a more sustainable future.

Panelists

• Karin Svensson, Chief Sustainability Officer, Volvo Group
• Amit Kar, Global Director, Digital Solutions Leader, Schneider Electric
• Jessica Troni, Senior Programme Officer responsible for the UN Environment-Global Environment Facility Climate Change Adaptation portfolio.
• Faustin Munyazikwiye, Deputy Director General, Rwanda Environment Management Authority
• Jangping Thia, Lead Economist, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank

17:45 - 19:00
In-person conversation hosted by the Chair of the INC (Closed event - Member States only)

In-person conversation hosted by the Chair of the INC, H.E. Mr. Luis Vayas Valdivieso, Ambassador of Ecuador to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the Secretariat of the INC at the margins of COP28 to exchange on the negotiations underway. The invitation is addressed to Ministers, and/or their representatives, attending COP28.

UNEP works to ensure the resilience of our planet through conservation, restoration and the sustainable use of nature. This day will be framed around the conservation, restoration, and sustainable management of nature, as integral strategies for achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement.

10:30 - 11:15
Measuring progress in addressing drought risk and impacts: the role of ecosystem-based approaches

Failure to address anticipated drought risks could displace 700 million people by 2030, exacerbating global threats and inequality under climate change. The integration of targets and monitoring actions across policy frameworks, including the Rio Conventions, is crucial. The Freshwater Challenge coalition, led by WWF and TNC, aims to restore rivers and wetlands, contributing to climate and biodiversity targets. The event will highlight perspectives from climate-vulnerable communities and decision-makers, emphasizing locally led adaptation for climate resilience and sparking a broader policy conversation on measuring progress in ecosystem-based adaptation to address drought risks globally.

11:45 - 12:15
Unlocking sustainable investment in nature-based solutions for climate action

In the face of escalating climate change impacts, resilient adaptation strategies are crucial. Recognizing nature-based solutions, especially ecosystem-based approaches, as pivotal for fortifying resilience, combating climatic risks, and aiding communities in adapting, this event invites participants to share collective expertise. The event will advocate for the cost-effectiveness of nature-based solutions in addressing climate resilience challenges and stresses their economic benefits. It will also showcase cutting-edge climate adaptation practices, like paludiculture on former drained peatlands.

Panelists

• Jessica Troni, Head, Climate Change Adaptation Unit, UNEP
• Franziska Tanneberger, Head Greifswald Mire Centre, Germany
• Eike Behre, Senior Project Associate at the Munich Climate Insurance Initiative (MCII), United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS)
• Jessica Laguardia, Climate Change unit head, International Cooperation and Climate Change Directorate, Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources of El Salvador

13:20 - 14:30
Partnerships to improve Blue Carbon market integrity

Governments increasingly recognize blue carbon as a vital nature-positive climate solution with proven benefits for communities, conservation, and climate resilience. As the 'blue carbon market' rapidly evolves, it is crucial to explore its potential for advancing climate action and climate justice, and maximizing environmental, biodiversity, and economic advantages. This event will highlight diverse national experiences, interests, and concerns, fostering a deeper understanding of the opportunities and risks inherent in the blue carbon market. It will also emphasize the importance of partnerships between countries and across sectors, including private actors and civil society.

15:00 - 16:00
EMG high-level dialogue on strengthening UN system climate actions

Heads of UN entities will engage in a high-level Dialogue on joint messaging in which they will reflect on the support, cooperation and solutions the UN system is offering parties to the UNFCCC in terms of effective climate action and its interlinkages with other key areas of sustainable development, including in interagency settings, global advocacy, normative frameworks, regional collaboration, and national implementation. For more information: https://unemg.org/emg-cop28-dialogue/

Panelists

• Opening statement by Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP and Chair of the EMG
• Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary, UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
• Panel Discussion by entity heads of the UN system
• Moderated by Ms Gabrielle Walker, Co-founder of CUR8 and Rethinking Removals

16:30 - 17:30
Launch of the 2030 coral reef breakthrough

The High-level Coral Reef Breakthrough Launch event will mark a watershed moment in the history of global action to save the world’s most threatened ecosystem. The event will convene state leaders, renowned experts, and private sector executives to launch the first-ever global targets for coral reefs, aiming to secure their future existence and their vast ecosystem benefits supporting more than 500 million people globally. Event partners include International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI), Global Fund for Coral Reefs, High-Level Climate Champions, United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), UN Development Programme (UNDP), and UNEP.

UNEP works with key stakeholders to help them make evidence-based decisions to achieve environmental sustainability. This day will highlight the importance of integrating key scientific findings and results in policymaking processes for achieving climate goals.

10:00 - 10:15
Opening of Science-Policy Day

Panelists

• Mr. Abdallah Mokssit, Secretary of the IPCC and Chair of the World Adaptation Science Programme

10:30 - 11:15
AMR and environment: Linking AMR and the triple planetary crises of climate change, biodiversity and nature loss, and pollution and waste

Evidence suggests that changes occurring in the natural environment due to the climate crisis are increasing the spread of infectious disease, including drug-resistant infections. AMR contributes to almost 5 million deaths annually, most of which are in low- and middle-income countries. AMR poses serious threats to human, animal, plant and environmental health, food safety, food security, development, and pandemic prevention preparedness and response, as drug-resistant bacteria can circulate through food and the environment. Aligned with UNEP's publication 'Bracing for Superbugs,' the dialogue will explore environmental dimensions of AMR, with focus on the UNGA High-level Meeting on AMR in 2024.

Panelists

• Sunita Narain, Director-General, Centre for Science and Environment, India and Member of the GLG
• Beatrice Atim Odwong Anywar, Minister of State for Environment, UGANDA and GLG member

11:45 - 12:30
What we need from the Global Stocktake? Insights from the UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2023

The event will highlight key findings from the Emissions Gap Report 2023, focusing on addressing the emissions gap in 2030 and beyond. UNEP's 14th Emission Gap Report assesses the disparity between current global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions trajectories and the 2030/2035 targets required for achieving the Paris Agreement's temperature goal. Emphasizing the importance of limiting global warming to below 2 degrees, with a preference for 1.5 degrees, the report delves into energy transitions in low- and middle-income countries and the role of carbon dioxide removal in meeting the Paris Agreement's objectives.

Panelists

• Anne Olhoff Chief Scientific Editor of the Emissions Gap Report, International Senior Adviser at CONCITO - Denmark’s Green Think Tank
• Joeri Rogelj Director of Research Professor of Climate Science & Policy, Grantham Institute and Centre for Environmental Policy at Imperial College London. Lead author of EGR 2023.
• Yacob Mulugetta Professor of Energy and Development Policy, University College London. Lead author of EGR 2023.
• Greg Mutitt Senior Associate at IISD. Lead author of EGR 2023.
• Oliver Geden Head of the Research Cluster Climate Policy and Politics, German Institute for International and Security Affairs. Lead author of EGR 2023.

14:00 - 14:45
Partnering to bridge the science-policy-practice gap and advance knowledge for effective adaptation

Effective climate adaptation requires sound scientific knowledge as a key input to adaptation policies, plans and action. Currently adaptation isn’t yet as effective as it should be due to the lack of knowledge that is innovative, co-created, based on results from action research, and validated in practice. This session will address these issues by clarifying why this is a priority, what is adaptation effectiveness and how knowledge can and should inform better adaptation for increased effectiveness. Lessons will be drawn from the World Adaptation Science Programme’s (WASP) recent Policy Brief on Adaptation Effectiveness and the UNEP Adaptation Gap Reports.

Panelists

• Carolina Zambrano-Barragán (Moderator) Director of Programs, Climate and Land Use Alliance
• Henry Neufeldt Chief Editor of the Adaptation Gap Report, UNEP-CCC
• Manishka de Mel Senior Staff Associate at Columbia University, WASP Working Group on Adaptation Effectiveness
• Mikko Ollikainen Head of the Adaptation Fund

15:15 - 16:00
Enhancing transparency for climate action

Transparency forms the Paris Agreement's backbone, outlined by the Enhanced Transparency Framework for both developed and developing nations. Effective use of Article 6 cooperative approaches necessitates proper accounting, aligning with national transparency frameworks. This event will spotlight successful national practices in establishing such frameworks for mitigation and adaptation, contributing to sustainable development goals and elevating climate ambition globally. It offers a platform for countries to exchange knowledge on establishing national MRV/M&E frameworks, emphasizing domestic benefits from transparency in NDC implementation. The event seeks to discuss this important topic through a diverse range of voices.

Panelists

• Karen Olsen (moderator), UNEP-CCC, Senior Advisor Carbon Markets
• Henry Neufeldt, UNEP-CCC
• Felipe de Leon, Gov of Costa Rica
• Veronica Ndetu, Gov of Kenya
• Shajeea Khalid, University in Pakistan
• Paula Panguene, Gov of Mozambique

UNEP spearheads innovative financial solutions for mitigation and adaptation in climate action. This Finance Day event at COP28 delves into these groundbreaking initiatives, fostering in-depth discussions on their role in promoting sustainable land use, enhancing ecosystem resilience, and mobilizing public and private investments for climate action.

08:45 - 09:30
Scaling up finance for climate and air pollution together: A matter of health

The climate emergency has never been greater. At the same time, 99 percent of the global population breathes air that does not meet WHO Guidelines. The two crises often share the same pollutants and sources, making integrated action an effective choice to achieve wide-ranging benefits for sustainable development. This event will demonstrate how political will and commitment, cooperation across teams, inclusion of specific measures in nationally determined contributions (NDCs) help unlock investments, which then translate into real world public health improvements.

Panelists

• Ms. Martina Otto, Head of Secretariat, CCAC, UNEP
• Dr. Maria Neira, ASG WHO
• Mr. Abraham Ortinez Álvarez, General Coordinator of Climate Change Mitigation at the National Institute of Ecology and Climate Change of Mexico
• Dr. Nawal Alhosany, Acting, Assistant Undersecretary of Green Development & Climate Change Sector & Permanent Mission of the UAE to IRENA
• Patricia Barandun, Chief Section Migration and forced displacement at the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation within the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, Switzerland
• Yoko Watanabe, Director, Environment Climate Change, Resilience, and Environment Cluster, Asian Development Bank (TBC)
• Mr. Rahul Kitchlu, Climate Change Group, World Bank

10:00 - 10:15
Opening of Finance Day

Panelists

• Ms. Jodi-Ann Wang

10:30 - 11:15
Tackling the true cost of financing adaptation: Insights from the UNEP Adaptation Gap Report 2023 and what it means for the financial sector

The 2023 UNEP Adaptation Gap report delves into the costs of adaptation for developing nations. This panel session will unveil and discuss updated financial data and analysis from the report, reflecting actual adaptation costs aligned with developing countries' NDCs and NAPs. The session will also explore how financial institutions can expand climate-resilient finance and embed assessments of physical climate risks across the sector. Finally, the session will aim at fostering a systematic response from the global finance sector to Article 2.1(c) of the Paris Agreement, making global financial flows inherently 'climate-resilient.'

Panelists

• Henry Neufeldt, Sr Researcher, UNEP-CCC
• Pieter Pauw, Researcher, Eindhoven University of Technology
• Amal-Lee Amin, Managing Director Climate Change, British International Investment
• Lesley Ndlovu, CEO, African Risk Capacity
• Lina Osman, Head of Sustainability West, Standard Chartered Bank

11:45 - 12:30
Unlocking sustainable land use and adaptation investments for climate action: Innovative finance solutions

UNEP is at the forefront of fostering innovative financial solutions to address pressing global challenges related to sustainable land use and adaptation as part of the climate action. This event will delve into these pioneering initiatives, engage in-depth discussions and explore how these initiatives are instrumental in promoting sustainable land use, enhancing ecosystem resilience, and catalysing public and private investment for climate action. The event will also showcase innovation of financial solutions that UNEP has nurtured in the domains of land use and adaptation.

Panelists

• Pedro Moura Costa, Sustainable Investment Management (SIM)
• Michael Schlup, Managing Director, Sail Ventures
• Ali Raza Rizvi, Head, Climate Change, Centre for Economy and Finance, IUCN
• Alvin Chandra, Global Coordinator, Adaptation Policy and Partnerships, UNEP

14:15 - 15:00
Catalysing NDC investments: Ambition to action

Developing countries often lack expertise and resources to formulate impactful mitigation and adaptation projects aligned with their NDC and LTS objectives. Rethinking climate institutions involves bolstering capabilities in three key areas: advocating private-sector investments in climate initiatives, coordinating decisions horizontally and vertically, and developing climate bankable project portfolios. This side event aims to discuss innovative institutional arrangements and alliances for climate decision-making and investments. It brings together government officials and experts from Latin America (Colombia), Asia-Pacific (Vietnam), and Northern Africa (Morocco) to share experiences on transformative institutional setups, attracting NDC and LTS investments, and forging alliances for sector-specific climate investments.

Panelists

• Philippo Berardi. GEF Climate Change Focal Area Coordinator
• Sebastián Carranza, Director of Climate Change and Risk Management, Ministry of Environment
• Carlos Herrera, Vice-president of Sustainable Development, National Business Association (ANDI)
• Dr. Huynh Thi Lan Huong (Ms.), Chairperson of the Ha Noi University of Natural Resources and Environment Council,
• Bouzekri Razi, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.
• Climate Change Director, Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development
• Ms. Sumalee Khosla, Senior Climate Finance Adviser, UNEP
• Mr. Till Tibbe, Division KC4, International Climate Initiative (IKI), Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action

15:30 - 16:15
Unleashing climate-resilient infrastructure investments

The Global Commission on Adaptation estimates an annual investment of $1.8 trillion to $2.4 trillion globally in climate-resilient infrastructure by 2030. Africa faces a significant financing gap of $68 billion to $108 billion per year, according to the African Development Bank. Greening public investments in crucial sectors can accelerate SDGs and Paris Agreement goals, fostering economic dividends, job creation, and resilience against climate risks. This side event will explore efficient pathways for African and developing nations, organizations, financial institutions, and the private sector to accelerate sustainable infrastructure investments, design policies, attract financing and foster public-private partnerships for a climate-resilient world.

Panelists

• Karin Svensson, Chief Sustainability Officer, Volvo Group
• Harry Verhaar, Vice-President Global Public and Government Affairs, Signify
• Prof. Anthony Nyong, Director Climate Change and Green Growth, African Development Bank
• David Greenall, Global Managing Director, Climate Risk, Decarbonization, Nature & Biodiversity, and Adaptation, KPMG

16:45 - 17:30
The financial system & the quest for net-zero - using the best available science to enable a smooth yet determined economic transition

To make 1.5°C viable, the world must halve emissions by 2030 and mobilize decarbonisation investment of over 1 USD trillion per annum. Private and public financial institutions, as well as their regulators, have key roles to play in preparing for these changes, and in enabling them. Scientific scenarios provide essential links between policymakers, regulators, financial institutions, and the climate science community. This session will discuss the forms in which these various parties can accelerate and augment cooperation towards net zero. It will also go in-depth on the newest scenarios developed in conjunction with the Network for Greening the Financial System.

Panelists

• Livio Stracca, Chair of the NGFS Workstream on Scenario Design and Analysis
• David Carlin, Head of Risk, UNEP FI
• Dana Brasky, Global Head of Sustainability Strategy and Net Zero, Standard Chartered
• Bas Van Ruijven, Research Group Leader and Senior Research Scholar, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis

UNEP works to promote the use of integrated approaches to sustainable energy systems, including energy efficiency and the use of energy from low-carbon sources. This day will address universal energy access and workers' need to achieve just transition in the energy sector. It will place an additional special focus on cooling as a critical mitigation and adaptation factor.

10:30 - 11:15
The future of energy: Leaving no one behind

According to the IEA, investment in unabated fossil fuel supply and projects is set to rise by more than 6% in 2023. Yet, energy security and access for developing countries are worsening with dire consequences for health, education, food and water security, migration, and ultimately global security. This event will explore technologies and innovations to develop renewable energy systems including green hydrogen as a flexible energy vector, while at same time highlight opportunities and challenges for developing countries for the production and use of clean energy technologies.

Panelists

• H.E. Leila Benali, Minister of Energy Transition & Sustainable Development, Morocco
• Luca De Lorenzo, Senior Director, Head of Sustainability and Mandate, Nordic Investment Bank
• Laura Williamson, Director Membership and Institutional Partnerships, REN21
• Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director General, Energy Commission of Nigeria
• Dr Nikolas Meitanis, Executive Director, Strategy and Corporate Development, Masdar
• Steve Kukoda, Vice President/Executive Director, International Copper Association

11:45 - 12:30
A Stocktake: From climate technology needs to implementation

This year marks the conclusion of the first Global Stocktake, which was established under the UNFCCC process to assess and take stock of the global response with regard to the extent and type of progress made towards meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement. This event will present the new Climate Technology Progress Report, produced by UNEP-CCC and the UNFCCC Technology Mechanism, and discusses trends on climate technology progress, with a focus on urban transitions in the context of Asia.

Panelists

• Ruth Zugman Do Coutto, OiC, Energy and Climate Branch, Industry and Economy Division
• Elisabeth Gilmore, Carleton University
• Ping Zhong, Director, Division of Global Environmental Affairs (Division of Climate Change International Cooperation)
• Heleen de Coninck, Eindhoven University of Technology
• Sara Traerup, Section Head, Technology, UNEP-CCC

13:00 - 13:45
Acceleration models for energy-efficiency in developing countries

Industries are responsible for 23% of global emissions. While their emissions are to some extent increasingly being regulated, there are no limits to their energy consumption. Globally, UNEP supports Energy Service Companies for industrial energy efficiency through its Global ESCO Network. Industries need an ‘off-the-shelf’ implementation model that does not put any strain on their dedication of finance to core business. The event will announce the new partnership (MoU) between UNEP and ASEAN Centre for Energy for the promotion of ESCOs in ASEAN.

Panelists

• Steven Kukoda, International Copper Alliance, Vice President / Executive Director
• Pierre Langlois, Econoler, President
• Gabriela Prata Dias, UNEP-CCC, head of Section
• Søren Lutken, UNEP-CCC, Senior Economist

14:30 - 15:15
Cooling cities: district cooling and its role in the energy transition and urban heat resilience

Convened by UNEP and the UNEP-led Cool Coalition, this event will hear from national and subnational governments, industry and finance on their efforts and challenges to scale district cooling and key benefits, including emission reduction, climate and energy system resilience, and reduction of urban heat island. The panel will discuss how to accelerate uptake of district cooling in new markets in combination with passive cooling and heat-resilient urban design. This comprehensive approach to cooling is laid out through the commitments in the Global Cooling Pledge - one of the nine non-negotiated declarations, pledges, and charters that constitute key outcomes for the COP28 Presidential Action Agenda.

15:45 - 16:30
Passive cooling and nature-based solutions for building comfort

Being convened by UNEP, UNEP-led Cool Coalition, Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction (GlobalABC), and UN ESCAP, this event discusses challenges and opportunities for adopting passive cooling solutions to address sustainable cooling and thermal comfort in buildings in an energy-efficient, affordable and resilient way. The event will focus on the implementation of commitments related to passive cooling solutions in the Global Cooling Pledge. It aims to raise awareness and promote collective action toward accelerating passive cooling solutions.

Panelists

• Dr. Hak Mao, Director of the Department of Climate Change, Ministry of Environment, Government of Cambodia
• Hongpeng Liu, Director, Energy Division, UN ESCAP
• Sunita Purushottam, Head of Sustainability at Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd
• Prashant Kapoor, Chief Industry Specialist, Green Buildings and Cities, IFC Climate Business Group, Climate Change

UNEP works to harnesses the power of digital transformation to advance climate and environmental goals while mitigating the risks of technology. The Digital day will serve as catalyst to mobilize the ecosystem of governments, corporates, multilaterals, academia, investors and startups to drive a step-change in the development and deployment of technological climate solutions to bring the world back to a 1.5°C trajectory and reduce suffering for the most impacted populations and ecosystems.

10:30 - 11:15
Harmonizing environmental data: Towards a Global environmental data strategy

Big Data on the environment is essential to our understanding of the state of the world environment and the production of science-based tools for decision-making by governments, investors, industries and consumers, among others. Recognizing the importance of better data governance and access, the UN Environment Assembly called for the development of a Global Environmental Data Strategy by 2025. This event will explore what has been done so far in the development of a Global Environmental Data Strategy (GEDS), identify gaps and opportunities, and showcase how the work of the Data for the Environment Alliance (DEAL) is shaping up future opportunities.

Panelists

• Katrin Saarsalu-Layachi, Estonian Ambassador at Large for Climate and Energy Policy
• Sally Radwan, Chief Digital Officer, UNEP
• Dr. Christian Feichtinger, Executive Director, International Astronautical Federation
• Levent Ergin, Global Chief ESG Sustainability Strategist, Informatica
• Justin Keeble, Managing Director For Global Sustainability, Google Cloud
• Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, Environmental Activist, Geographer

11:45 - 12:30
Global Data for Climate Action

This event delves into use cases for global environmental data. Explore the merits and challenges of utilizing international data sources for driving action and monitoring the environment and climate change, as well as strategies to connect sets of data, in particular through the World Environment Situation Room. Uncover how partnerships can harmonize data collection efforts, foster transparency and interoperability to ultimately strengthen climate protection, and gain insights on the current state of global environmental data.

Panelists

• Gavin McCormick, Co-founder, Climate TRACE
• Dr. Karen M, St. Germain. Earth Science Division Director, NASA
• Michael Anthony, Co-Founder, Vertify.earth
• Florian Pappenberger, Deputy Director-General, European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, Destination Earth (online)
• Golestan (Sally) Radwan, Chief Digital Officer, UNEP (Moderator)

13:00 - 13:45
Gaming for climate: Gamification, digital literacy & behaviour change

The event will explore the transformative role of digitalization in driving sustainable behavior change. In the face of pressing environmental challenges, this event will delve into how digital technologies, such as AI, social media, and virtual reality, can be harnessed to inspire and guide individuals towards more environmentally conscious choices. Through insightful discussions and case studies, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how digital tools can reshape consumer preferences and encourage the adoption of greener lifestyles, thereby contributing to the overarching goals of the COP28 conference.

Panelists

• Kieren Mayers, Senior Director of Environment, Social, & Governance, Sony Interactive Entertainment
• Sam Barratt, Chief, Youth, Education & Advocacy, Playing for the Planet, UNEP (online)
• Michael Angst, CEO, E-Line Media
• Prof. Rupert Younger, Director of the Oxford University Centre for Corporate Reputation, Oxford University
• Dhabia AlMansoor, Youth Representative
• Bruno Pozzi, Deputy Director, Ecosystems Division, UNEP(Moderator)

15:15 - 16:00
AI for climate: exploring use cases

The event will explore and showcase how AI and related technologies can be harnessed to tackle climate challenges, such as predictive modelling, climate data analysis, and optimizing resource management. It will also discuss the potential negative effect of unregulated AI on the climate and reinforce the importance of ethics. Finally, it will explore the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence in addressing climate change challenges. The panel will bring visionary leaders at the forefront of AI research and application for environmental sustainability.

Panelists

• Rana Hajirasouli, Founder, The Surpluss
• Farid Tejani, CTO, COO/Founder, Yokahu
• Osama Al-Muqbel, Chief Technology Officer, Seafood Souq
• Susan Graham, CEO, Dendra Systems
• Rika Nakazawa, CEO, Founder & VC Investor(Moderator)

16:30 - 17:15
National digital strategies and digital public infrastructure for climate action

This event explores the transformative potential of National Digital Strategies and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPIs) for Climate Action. DPI refers to solutions and systems that empower the effective delivery of crucial society-wide functions and services in the public and private sectors. The panel will discuss the role of National Digital Strategies and DPIs to catalyze climate action, as well as exchange success stories that illustrate the opportunities presented by digital transformation. Furthermore, the panel will discuss the challenges of strengthening and improving DPI worldwide, including technology transfer and capacity building. The event aims at inspiring countries to develop National Digital Strategies and national DPI with a sustainability and climate focus.

Panelists

• Dirk Messner, CODES Co-Champion & President, German Environment Agency.
• Laura Létourneau, Advisor on Digital and Ecological Transformation, Office of the Prime Minister of France.
• Alexandre Reis Siqueira Freire, Commissioner, National Telecommunications Agency (ANATEL), Brazil.
• Susan Graham, CEO, Dendra Systems
• Tomas Lamanauskas. Deputy Secretary-General, ITU(Moderator)

Closing remarks: Amandeep Singh Gill. Secretary-General's Envoy on Technology, United Nations

UNEP works with countries to promote sustainable, low-emission transport and work to reduce the sector’s contribution to air pollution and climate change. This day will also highlight solutions to transition to low carbon and resilient built environments and infrastructure, sustainable and circular waste systems, and sustainable mobility and freight.

10:30 - 11:15
Shifting to electric buses in Africa cities

Increasing emissions are driven by rapidly growing vehicle fleets in the Global South. Electric vehicles (EVs), in combination with clean power and integrated with public transportation are an effective means to reduce transport sector emissions. This event will feature the need for e-bus finance from both a country and private sector perspective and provides insights on e-bus financing from the World Bank and the GCF. It will furthermore elaborate on the importance to develop bankable e-bus proposals and how this will be supported through targeted technical assistance.

Panelists

• Binyam Reja, Global Transport Practice Manager
• Rob de Jong, Head, Sustainable Mobility Unit, UNEP
• Thierno Birahim, AW, General Director, Executive Council of Urban Transportin Dakar (CETUD)
• Mahua Acharya, Managing Director of CQuest Capital and former CEO of Convergence Energy Services Ltd (CESL)
• Euan Low, Climate Sector Lead - Energy, Industry & Transport, Green Climate Fund (GCF)
• Rajal Upadhyaya, CFO, Roam Kenya
• Patrick Andre, Principal Secretary Department of Land Transport, Seychelles

11:45 - 12:30
Reinventing cities: Unlocking action for a resilient urban future

Cities, home to more than half of the world population, are both a challenge and battleground in our fight against climate change. This event will highlight the critical role of cities in achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement. By focusing on core elements such as integrated planning, multi-level governance, integration to international processes, and access to international climate finance, this session will explore how to unlock some of the barriers cities are facing. It will showcase concrete examples from the GEF-funded UrbanShift programme and other UNEP projects, in particular the Saida Sustainable City Initiative.

Panelists

• Ruth Zugman Do Coutto, OiC, Energy and Climate Branch, Industry and Economy Division
• Rogier van den Berg, Global Director, WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities
• Miraq Al-Jubouri, Regional Coordinator for Environmental Governance, ROWA UNEP
• Hazem Bdih, Mayor of Saida, Lebanon
• Amal Nadim, Head of Environment, Energy and Climate Change, UN Development Programme
• Bappenas - Indonesian Ministry of National Development Planning
• Yunus Arikan, Head of Global Policy and Advocacy, ICLEI World Secretariat
• Claudio Puty, City Planning Secretary, City of Belem
• Aloke Barnwal, Coordinator, Sustainable Cities Program, Global Environment Facility

14:00 - 14:45
Loss and damage: Addressing soft limits to adaptation to avert and minimize L&D

Evidence continues to show that losses and damages associated with climate change are occurring across all regions around the globe, in all economic sectors and particularly in vulnerable communities. This event will build from the 2023 UNEP Adaptation Gap Report and ongoing work by the World Adaptation Science Programme’s (WASP) Working Group on Loss and Damage. It will address the soft limits to adaptation to avert and minimize losses and damages. Experts will provide an overview of the issue and discuss the topic with the audience, providing further clarity on the soft limits to adaptation.

Panelists

• Alvin Chandra, Global Coordinator for Adaptation Policy and Partnerships, UNEP
• Bhim Adhikari, Senior Program Specialist, International Development Research Centre (IDRC)
• Edmond Totin, Senior Scientist, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)
• Director for Climate Change and Risk Management, Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development of Colombia (MADS)
• Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources of The Gambia
• Red Cross - the Pacific Community

UNEP works to reduce deforestation and forest degradation, as well as preserve other land uses including through wetland conservation and grassland restoration, to conserve rich biodiverse territories. This day will focus on scaling robust solutions that protect, restore and effectively manage natural ecosystems and forests, address drivers of nature loss, empower Indigenous Peoples and local communities, and create resilient livelihoods.

9:15 - 10:00
Finance for nature: Unleashing a $7 trillion opportunity for realignment

On Nature Day, UNEP will launch the third edition of the State of Finance for Nature Report which tracks the global financial flows towards Nature-based Solutions and estimates the investment required to limit global heating to below 1.5°C, halt biodiversity loss and address land degradation. The event will centre around a series of strategic actions intended to act as catalysts for governments, finance institutions and the private sector to closing the finance for nature gap.

Panelists

• Heike Henn, Director for Climate, Energy and Environment and Commissioner for Climate Policy and Climate Financing, Germany
• Niki Mardas, Executive Director, Global Canopy
• Mirey Atallah, Head, Nature for Climate Branch, UNEP

10:30 - 11:15
Everything all at once: High-level dialogue on supercharging forest solutions to the climate crisis

The race to decarbonization requires an ‘everywhere, everything, all at once’ approach. Beyond the transport and energy sectors, forests offer an untapped mitigation potential of at least 4 gigatonnes of emissions reductions per year. Forests also have enormous potential to generate resources for the communities that inhabit them. This high-level dialogue will bring together forest-rich countries and experts to discuss a toolbox of solutions, including the role of carbon markets, monitoring systems, and safeguards framework to supercharge the impacts of forest-based actions on climate.

Panelists

• Inger Andersen, Executive Director, UNEP
• Marina Silva, Minister, Ministry of Environment, Brazil (TBC)
• Siti Nurbaya, Minister for Environment and Forestry, Indonesia (TBC)
• Annette Nazareth, ICVCM Chair (TBC)
• Cecile Bibiane Ndjebet,, UN Champion of the Earth 2022
• Eunsik Park, Director General, Korea Forest Service.

14:00 - 14:45
Empowering people, strengthening partnership: Improving ecosystem restoration to ensure climate-resilient future

The event will highlight the pivotal role of ecosystem restoration in addressing global environmental challenges. This event will serve as a platform for showcasing the achievements and success stories of the UN Decade on Restoration, focusing on its general outcomes and the establishment of a digital hub for knowledge sharing and collaboration.

Panelists

• Musonda Mumba, Secretary General Convention on Wetlands
• Bruno Pozzi, Deputy Director, Ecosystems Division UNEP

15:15 - 16:00
Climate Action Showcase: Beyond carbon - realizing untapped potential of forests to combat climate changes

From lowering temperatures to providing renewable materials, livelihoods and employment, the world’s forests play a larger role than just cutting carbon emissions to combat climate change. The Collaborative Partnership on Forests (CPF), comprising 16 international organizations, recently unveiled its Joint Call to Action for Forests towards 2030 at the 2023 SDG Summit and Climate Action Week in New York. Building on this launch, this event will focus on best practices and case studies on capturing full values of forests, productive functions of forests and potential of renewable materials and green jobs.

Panelists

• Mirey Atallah, Head of Nature for Climate Branch, UNEP
• Zhimin Wu, Director of the Forestry Division of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations / Chair of the Collaborative Partnership on Forests
• Juliette Biao, Director of the United Nations Forum on Forests Secretariat / Vice-Chair of the Collaborative Partnership on Forests
• Sheam Satkuru, Executive Director, International Tropical Timber Organization
• Susan Gardner, Director of the Ecosystems Division, UN Environment Programme (UNEP)

UNEP is playing a leading role in the advancement of relevant policies, tools and knowledge products available for decision makers in the public and the private sector to shape sustainable food production and achieve circular food systems. Climate change is creating severe pressure and risks for the agri-food and water systems that underpin human well-being. This day will look into specific food and agriculture focuses include innovation investment, regenerative agriculture, and national transformation pathways, underpinned by financing mechanisms and project preparation.

10:30 - 11:15
Cultivating change: Pioneering financial innovations and technical solutions for food systems transformation

The global food system is at a crossroads, facing unprecedented challenges related to environmental impact, health, and human rights conditions. In response to these pressing issues, the Food System Transformation will be achieved not only by promoting sustainable land use, but also by investing in novel alternatives to conventional meat and dairy products to cater for more environmentally sustainable diets. This event will bring together leaders, researchers, financial institutions, and policymakers who will share their visions, strategies, and successes in driving the food systems transition towards a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive system.

Panelists

• Mirey Atallah (Moderator) Head of Nature for Climate Branch at UNEP
• Cleo Verkuijl Co-leads of the What’s Cooking Report
• Dr. Ana Maria Loboguerrero Research Director of Climate Action for the Alliance of Bioversity International and International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) - CGIAR
• Marcela Paranhos Agriculture Finance Director Brazil, The Nature Conservancy
• João Adrien Head of Low Carbon Agriculture Transition at Itaú BBA
• Steven Ripley Investor Engagement, Sustainable Investment Management/Responsible Commodities Facility

11:45 - 13:30
Food is never waste: Tackling food waste as an essential climate action

To achieve global food security, we need to half food waste and transition to circular food systems: act today to reduce the risks of and prepare for future threats. Identifying food waste reduction strategies is therefore essential to cut methane and other GHG emissions and reach the 1.5°C target of the Paris Agreement. This event will highlight key findings from the new Food Waste Index Report 2023, as well as successful anti-food waste initiatives from the region, including the Green Ramadan Initiative.

Panelists

• Ruth Do Coutto, Oic, Chief, Energy & Climate Branch, UNEP
• Richard Swannell, Director of Impact Growth, WRAP, to discuss Public-Private Partnerships for systemic change
• Emma Banks, Vice President, F&B Strategy & Development, EMEA, Hilton
• Martina Otto, Head Climate & Clean Air Coalition, UNEP
• Andy Jarvis, Director Future of Food, Bezos Earth Fund
• Ana Catalina Suarez Pina, Snr Director of Strategy and Innovation of The Global FoodBanking Network
• Adalberto Maluf, National Secretary for Urban Environment

12:30 - 13:30
Cooking demonstration

A lunch reception and cooking demonstration by UNEP Advocate on Food Waste in West Asia, Chef Leyla Fathallah and Senior Director, Culinary, EMEA, Hilton, Chef Sebastian Nohse.

Chefs

• Chef Leyla Fathallah, UNEP Advocate on Food Waste in West Asia
• Chef Sebastian Nohse, Senior Director, Culinary, EMEA, Hilton

14:00-14:45
Wastewater and Nutrient Management: A Key for Climate, Water, Food and Energy Security

In line with the UAE goals and vision, and with a focus on addressing water security through wastewater reuse, nutrient recovery from wastewater, protection of freshwater and marine ecosystems and climate change. The event will highlight the nexus between nutrients, wastewater, and climate change and builds on the work done by the Global Wastewater Initiative and Global Partnership on Nutrient Management to reuse wastewater and recover nutrients from wastewater to protect marine and freshwater ecosystems, while addressing climate change.

Panelists

• Susan Gardner, Director, Ecosystems Division, UNEP (TBC)
• Ministry of Environment and Energy of Costa Rica (TBC)
• World Food Programme (Representative TBC)
• Rabeb Aloui, Youth Delegate, Member of Youth Major Group, UNEP
• International Water Association (IWA) (Representative TBC)
• Helene Van Rossum, Programme Management Officer, UNEP (Moderator)

Catalyst day will highlight themes that can bolster climate action.

10:30 - 11:15
Moving nature up the climate agenda: How the UN system is working to link the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework with climate action in policy and implementation

Climate change and biodiversity loss are two sides of the same coin. Both have significant interconnected effects on ecosystems and the environment. The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework adopted at the 15th Conference of Parties (COP15) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), acknowledges this intersectionality, while also recognizing that successful biodiversity conservation and restoration efforts are pivotal to addressing climate change and sustainable development challenges. This event will have speakers from a range of UN agencies working on this intersection discuss what is being done and where efforts are especially needed throughout the current decade and beyond.