Water Management & Environmental Sustainability 

The MENA region faces several water and environmental challenges that have significant implications for the environment, human health, and socio-economic development. To address these challenges, sustainable water management practices, such as efficient irrigation, wastewater treatment, and water conservation, are essential. Another critical aspect of water management and environmental sustainability is the preservation of ecosystems and biodiversity. The region is home to several unique ecosystems that are under threat from human activities such as urbanization, land-use change, and pollution. To mitigate these threats, nations in the region are implementing policies that promote environmental sustainability, ecosystem protection, and sustainable agriculture, to ensure the availability and quality of natural resources for future generations.

Newsha Ajami
Chief Development Officer for Research, Berkeley Lab's Earth and Environmental Sciences Area

Hussein Amery
Professor of Water Politics and Policy, Colorado School of Mines

Logan Cochrane
Associate Professor, College of Public Policy, Hamad Bin Khalifa University

Diana Francis
Assistant Professor & Head of ENGEOS Lab, Khalifa University

Paul Fleming (moderator)
Advisory Council Member, Climate and Water Program, Middle East Institute

Youth Activism & Climate Engagement 

The future of youth activism and climate engagement in the MENA region is promising, as young people increasingly recognize the urgency of addressing climate change and are taking action to promote environmental sustainability and climate resilience. Young people in the MENA region are already leading grassroots movements and campaigns to raise awareness about climate change and advocate for policy changes. And as such, youth-led organizations and initiatives focused on environmental sustainability and climate resilience are emerging across the region. With the increasing use of technology and social media, young people in the region have the potential to play a significant role in promoting climate action and advancing sustainable development in the years to come.

Athra KhamisUAE Ministry of Climate and the Environment

Michel Frem UNESCO Groundwater Youth Network 

Sarah AlhartheySenior Business Development Manager, ACWA Power

Neeshad Shafi (moderator) Co-Founder, Arab Youth Climate Movement Qatar

The Climate & Security Nexus 

The MENA region is facing several security challenges, including political instability and conflicts, which are likely to be exacerbated by climate change implications such as water scarcity, food insecurity, and natural disasters. Water scarcity can lead to social and economic tensions and has the potential to trigger conflicts between and within countries. Similarly, food insecurity can trigger social unrest and political instability, particularly in countries with weak economies and limited resources. Natural disasters, such as floods and droughts, can also have significant security implications for countries with poor infrastructure and limited disaster management capabilities. Addressing these challenges will require a comprehensive and coordinated approach, including measures to promote climate resilience, enhance disaster management capabilities, and promote regional cooperation and dialogue.

Tom Ellison Deputy Director, Center for Climate and Security

Tobias von Lossow Research Fellow, Clingendael

Mirette F. Mabrouk MEI Egypt Program Director

Iulia-Sabina Joja (moderator) Director, Black Sea Program, Middle East Institute 

Energy Transition & the Green Circular Economy 

The MENA region has taken steps towards a sustainable future by investing in renewable energy and transitioning towards a green circular economy. Several countries in the region have set ambitious targets for expanding renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions by investing heavily in renewable energy technologies. The region is also adopting initiatives to reduce waste and promote sustainable resource use through circular economy principles that include waste reduction, recycling, and repurposing of materials, in addition to the use of renewable resources and energy-efficient technologies. These policies will not only seek to reduce carbon emissions and environmental degradation in the region but will also create new economic opportunities and enhance energy security.

H.E. Dr. Nawal Al-Hosany (keynote) UAE Permanent Representative to IRENA

Sherif Ayoub Senior Director for Finance and Operations, Sustainable Energy for All

Carole Nakhle Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Crystal Energy

Jauad El Kharraz Executive Director, Regional Center for Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency

Sara Vakhshouri Founder, SVB Energy International and SVB Green Access

Andrei Covatariu (moderator) Energy and Climate Policy Expert

Climate Resilience & Sustainability in Cities  

Cities and climate resilience are interconnected in the MENA region, where rapid urbanization and climate change pose significant challenges to urban development and environmental sustainability. Climate change impacts such as rising temperatures, drought, and flooding are expected to exacerbate water scarcity, food security, and public health issues, particularly in urban areas. Cities in the region are increasingly incorporating climate resilience measures and innovative solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Progressive approaches to urban planning, such as green infrastructure and urban agriculture, can help enhance the resilience of cities to climate change, while also promoting environmental sustainability and economic development.

Shruti Narayan Regional Director of South and West Asia, C40

Karim Elgendy Founder, Carboun 

Jamila Elmir Senior Advisor, High Level Climate Champions

Steven Kenney (moderator) Director, Strategic Foresight Initiative, Middle East Institute