TESG Summit 2024: Convergence of Finance, Tech, and Sustainability
The ESG Summit 2024, held in May, was a monumental event that bridged the worlds of finance, technology, sustainability, and talent across two of the most glamorous locations: Dubai and Cannes
The ESG Summit 2024,was not just a gathering; it was a powerful statement on the future of global sustainability, showcasing the intersection of environmental stewardship, cutting-edge technology, and the creative industries.
Bridging Finance, Tech, Talents, and the Ocean in Dubai
The summit kicked off on May 14th at the prestigious Ritz Carlton DIFC in Dubai International Financial Center. Opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Gustavo Montero, Chairman of Carter Capital and Program Director of the Rio Summit, also known as the first COP by the Brundtland Commission. His speech set the tone for the summit, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in global finance and development.
The event was masterfully presented and moderated by Ms. Alexandra Busheva, an expert in IP licensing and global tour production. Her role as the MC and Agenda Director ensured a seamless flow of discussions and presentations, keeping the audience engaged and informed.
Setting the Stage: Sustainability and Finance
Following the opening remarks, H.E. Zulfiquar Ghadiyali, the Executive Director of H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon Al Nahyan's Office, took the stage. As the High Patron of the ESG Summit 2024, he emphasized the crucial role of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the business strategies of any forward-thinking organization. His speech highlighted the necessity of integrating sustainability into every aspect of business operations.
Ahmed Refaie, the host of the ESG Summit 2024 and CEO and Global CIO of G.P.I. Global Partners Investments Limited, then presented a keynote on Sustainable Business. He tackled provocative issues surrounding sustainable business practices, highlighting the inspiring work of the London Business Forum and the CFA Institute Research and Policy Centre. His presentation also shed light on the Global ESG Disclosure Standards, offering valuable insights into the future of sustainable finance.
The summit then continued with the highlighting remarks on ESG Environmental, Social, and Governance Issues by the Chairman of the United Arab Emirates Financial Markets Association; Mr. Mohamed Al Hashemi, followed by the ACI Financial Markets Association Director Mr. Rui Correia on the Markets Regulations Social and Governance Code of Conduct.
Key Highlights: Real-World Business Cases in Sustainability
The summit's agenda was packed with presentations that showcased real-world business cases and innovative approaches to sustainability:
- 3RT Smart Gold Holdings Inc: Managing Director Mr. George Chedid presented their revolutionary approach to sustainable gold mining. By tokenizing gold reserves without the need to extract them, 3RT is providing a unique investment opportunity that preserves the environment.
- Verde Whisper: An ambitious project aimed at saving the Amazonian Basin through tokenization, blending web3 and blockchain technology with environmental conservation. Presented by Mr. Sam Evan, Verde Whisper represents the future of environmental activism.
- BANTgo: The leading waste management and recycling app was showcased by its co-founder, Mr. Sergie Ivanov. BANTgo offers a rewarding approach to waste management, making recycling a profitable and sustainable venture.
Ecosystem Players, Carbon Credits, and the Climate Crisis
The summit also featured presentations from key players in the sustainability ecosystem:
- The Green Block: Co-founder Mr. Faisal Zaidi introduced The Green Block, a Web3 and AI sustainability ecosystem. His presentation on the Web3 and AI in Sustainability Report provided a comprehensive directory of companies, institutions, and governments involved in global sustainability efforts.
- C3 Companies Creating Change: Managing Director Mr. Keven Holiday walked the audience through the achievements of this tech sustainability accelerator. C3 focuses on tech startups in the MENA region, helping them align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
- UNIDROIT: Ms. Baiba Broka, Governing Council Member of the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law, showcased the institute's findings on Carbon Credits Regulations. Her presentation offered valuable insights into the legal aspects of carbon credits and their role in combating climate change.
Blue Economy: Unveiling Vast Opportunities in Africa
A significant highlight of the summit was the Blue Economy Presentation delivered by Ms. Ana Lima Barber, CEO of B International Partners FZE. As the General Partner to the ESG Summit 2024 and MENA Region’s Delegate of the Lusophone Countries Business Confederation, she shed light on the immense potential and business opportunities within the Blue Economy across Africa. Her insights opened new avenues for sustainable investments in the continent's vast water resources.
Climate Finance and COP28: A Dire Call to Action
In a poignant presentation titled “Climate Finance and Where Do We Go from Here,” Mr. David Gibson-Moore, President of Gulf Analytica and Chairman of Dalma Capital, linked the ESG Summit with the upcoming COP28. His presentation underscored the urgent need for climate finance, painting a sobering picture of the challenges our planet faces. His message resonated deeply, reminding all attendees of the critical importance of continued action on climate issues.
Mrs. Elena Schildgen, President of Rotary Club Cosmopolitan of Dubai, followed with a presentation that highlighted Rotary’s contributions to the UN’s SDG Goals. Her talk emphasized the importance of community-driven initiatives in achieving global sustainability targets.
Project Zero: Rejuvenating the Ocean with Celebrity Power
One of the most captivating segments of the summit was the introduction of Project Zero, an initiative aimed at rejuvenating the ocean through funding coral reef sanctuaries. Supported by international celebrities like Rita Ora, Chris Smalling, Will Poulter, Pixie Geldof, Cara Delevingne, Kate Moss, Ronnie Wood, Poppy Delevingne, Bernard Fowler, and Ty Wood, this project garnered significant attention. Hosted and promoted by G.P.I. Global Partners Investments Limited, Project Zero is set to be the main theme of the upcoming Climate Summit 2024.
Reconnecting Cinema and Sustainable Fashion at the Cannes Film Festival
The ESG Summit 2024 didn’t stop in Dubai; it extended its reach to the glamorous Cannes Film Festival. On May 15th, the Luxury Partner of the summit, Olympea Jewelry, was nominated at the Cannes Digital Fashion Awards. They won the Eco-Artisan Advocate Award, honoring their commitment to ethical practices and environmental stewardship. This award was featured in prestigious publications like L’Officiel and Vogue Weekly.
Yoona AI, the AI Fashion Design Platform and the ESG Summit 2024 Sustainable Fashion Partner, also won the Fashion Tech Collaboration of the Year. Their achievement was highlighted by Vogue Weekly and Celebrity Los Angeles, marking a significant milestone in the fusion of fashion and technology.
The Cannes Digital Fashion Awards Red Carpet Haute Cocktail Reception at La Croisette during the Cannes Film Festival was a glamorous kick-off to the 77th Film Festival season. Captured by over 500 international media outlets, this event was where fashion met tech, creating a luxurious and sustainable spectacle.
VIP Closing and Celebratory Soirees in Dubai and Cannes
On May 18th, the ESG Summit 2024 concluded with a series of VIP events that celebrated the success and impact of the summit:
- Green 17 Partners: Hosted The Green Room for the Major Seventh movie at Miramar La Croisette, where guests of the ESG Summit 2024 were welcomed to a pre-event of the Climate Change Forum in Paris. This event was hosted by Bruno de Champris, an award-winning director, and Geraldine Dunoyer, PR Director of Major Seventh Film Green Room.
- Dubai VIP Closing Soiree: The Institute of Advanced Studies and Cooperation, hosted by Ms. Patrizia Marin, President of Marco Polo Experience Magazine, commemorated the ESG Summit 2024 journey with a lavish closing VIP cocktail soiree. This event marked the end of the summit's journey, celebrating its achievements and the connections made.
Ahmed Refaie the host of the ESG Summit and CEO of G.P.I. Global Partners Investments who also was on the board of the Right For Education a charity organisation registered in Ireland and Ghana founded by Queen Dr. Susi Dattenberg-Doyle, the Queen of Gbi Kpoeta Ghana, presented their latest recruitment platform Redy Talent which gives free access to recruiters globally to tap into 8 million skilled and trained talents from more than 40 African countries in different sectors and industries.
Art and Hope: A Global Tour for a Cause
The summit also spotlighted the Art & Hope project, Between Heaven & Earth, led by Ms. Carla Cid De Diego, CEO of Art & Hope and Zenith Art & Fashion. This world tour, starting in April 2024, features exclusive private dinners in five cities, benefiting the Columbus Children’s Foundation. The tour includes stops at La Fenice in Venice, Kravis Center in Palm Beach, the Met Opera in New York, and Dubai Opera, offering an unforgettable journey through art, opera, and philanthropy.
The Legacy Continues
The ESG Summit 2024 was not just an event but a movement towards a more sustainable and inclusive future. From the discussions on sustainable finance and climate action to the glamorous celebrations at Cannes, the summit has left an indelible mark on the global stage. As we look forward to the upcoming Climate Summit 2024, the legacy of the ESG Summit 2024 will continue to inspire and drive change in the world of sustainability.
This summit has set a new standard for how we approach sustainability, bridging the gap between finance, technology, and environmental stewardship. Whether in the boardrooms of Dubai or the red carpets of Cannes, the ESG Summit 2024 has shown that the future of sustainability is bright, innovative, and inclusive.
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