The UAE has been at the forefront of sustainability initiatives. Next month, it will be hosting the United Nations’ 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28). It aims to highlight global efforts against the impact of climate change.
As a prelude to this event, SuperBridge Summit Dubai will be taking place in Dubai from October 16 to 17, 2023.  The summit will bring together visionaries and leaders from around the world to discuss the UAE’s role in achieving the international community’s sustainability aspirations.
Driving the global sustainability initiatives
Emerging economies play a major role in shaping future markets and addressing the global climate crisis. Its impact calls for urgent change, including a strategic transition to cleaner energy.
“The Earth’s future is at stake, and it needs emerging economies to transition to greener and cleaner energy systems,” said Dr. Nasser Saidi, founder and chairman of the Clean Energy Business Council.
It is undeniable that the challenges of transitioning to cleaner energy are substantial. However, green energy also brings potential benefits for the environment, society, and the global economy.
Read: Collaborative approach advocated for Gulf Chambers to foster innovation and sustainability
Dr. Saidi believes that the GCC is full of potential. It can play a central role in the global energy transition. Because it heavily invests in renewable energy, it can become a leading, cost-effective producer of solar power. This also aligns with its pursuit of member states’ Net Zero Emissions (NZE) objectives.
Additionally, the region’s expertise in climate technology can be applied to desalination and district cooling. It can also lead to innovations in desert agriculture in other regions.
“The region’s financial centers have the resources and expertise to become international centers for climate, green and blue finance – investment with positive impacts on the oceans,” stated Dr. Saidi.
This approach not only speeds up the GCC’s energy transition and economic diversification plans. It also strengthens its trade and investment relationships with emerging nations, particularly in Africa and Asia.
Technology in sustainable urban development
 Consumers today are increasingly aware of the consequences of their purchase decisions over the long run. This awareness is evident in their move towards smart living technologies.
By incorporating elements such as artificial intelligence (AI), touchless technology, smart thermostats, and health tech, smart living technologies help promote a sustainable and environmentally conscious way of life.
During the summit, Dr. Chao Wang, founder and CEO of Ambilight, will provide valuable insights on how electrochromic technology will shape the future of urban living. This technology aims to enhance urban living by improving comfort, efficiency, sustainability, and user-centered experiences.
“Our vision is to usher in a new era where technology harmoniously integrates with urban life, creating environments that are not just smarter but also more enriching and enjoyable for everyone,” said Dr. Wang.
In addition, Dr. Wang says that by 2024, the smart living industry and sustainable urban development will witness the incorporation of smart glass solutions into urban settings. These serve to improve both comfort and well-being. Moreover, these contribute to environmental sustainability, closely adhering to ESG principles.
These innovations will help people to experience comfortable and natural surroundings. At the same time, it leads to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
Smart living technologies “will help promote economic development by reducing costs, improving efficiency, creating new businesses and markets. It will also improve people’s living standards and quality of life, and promote sustainable urban development” explained Dr. Wang.
Exploring transformative opportunities
Given the UAE’s declaration of 2023 as the Year of Sustainability, the summit is committed to exploring initiatives driving green energy transformations.
Simultaneously, the summit will take proactive steps to promote climate finance opportunities. It is committed to connecting and uniting forward-thinking, action-oriented leaders to explore global transformative opportunities.
For other sustainability stories, click here.
