UAE Universities Climate Network

Video highlights of UAE Universities Climate Network's workshops held at the UAE Pavilion (UAE/Climate) during COP29 Azerbaijan. The UAE Universities Climate Network (UCN) would like to thank everyone involved in the success of the workshops held at the UAE Pavilion during COP29. These sessions brought together students of the UCN members, researchers, and experts to address critical climate issues, with a focus on water security, youth engagement, and urban planning. These workshops offered a unique platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and the development of actionable solutions to tackle climate challenges. It was inspiring to see the enthusiasm and commitment of young leaders as they contributed to the global climate dialogue. 🎥 Watch the highlights video to see how UCN is driving impactful conversations and shaping the future of climate action at COP29. #UCN #COP29 #WaterSecurity #YouthEngagement #UrbanPlanning #ClimateAction #Sustainability #ClimateInnovation #FutureLeaders #UAE #ClimateChange #GreenFuture #ClimateLeadership #COP29Pavilion #AcceleratingActionTogether

🌍 Accelerating Climate Action Through Sustainable Transport 🚆 Transport is the backbone of connectivity, trade, and economic growth, but it also contributes to nearly a quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions. The challenge? Balancing this vital sector’s role in development with the urgent need for climate action. 🌍 Sustainable transport isn’t just about mobility; it’s about transformation. It encompasses safe, affordable, and resilient solutions that minimize environmental impact while maximizing social and economic benefits. Think renewable-powered trains, electric vehicles, and investments in green public transit systems — steps that create a cleaner, more equitable future. 🚆 This World Sustainable Transport Day, let’s reflect on the power of transportation as a catalyst for change. By embracing innovative solutions and prioritizing sustainability, we can pave the way toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), from reducing inequality to combating climate change. 🚆 🚲 What steps can you take to support sustainable transport? Start by making informed choices: walk, bike, carpool, or opt for public transit when possible. Together, we can drive towards a future where transport connects us without harming the planet. #WorldSustainableTransportDay #ClimateAction #SustainableDevelopment #GreenTransport

Online Launch of MENA Climate Solutions Research Network (MENA CSRN) The UAE Universities Climate Network (UCN) invites you to the online launch of the MENA Climate Solutions Research Network (MENA CSRN) where we will showcase our mission, highlight key areas of focus, and discuss how you can get involved. Event Details: Date: December 4, 2024 Time: 1:00pm-1:45pm Platform: MS Team During this session, we will: - Provide an overview of the MENA Climate Solutions Research Network and its objectives. - Highlight the critical areas of focus for our collaborative efforts. - Discuss next steps for enhancing our community and expanding membership. Speakers: Prof. Samuel Mao, Co-Chair of UCN Dr Rasha Bayoumi, Co-Chair of UCN Stephen Davison, Climate Solutions Team Eman Wahby, Climate Solutions Team Register here: https://lnkd.in/dhjuVWze Your participation is important as we aim to engage more researchers in our initiatives.    We look forward to welcoming you to our first MENA CSRN event. Regards, UCN Leadership Team  

Higher Education Climate Network of Networks Roundtable The UAE Universities Climate Network, represented by Prof. Samuel Mao, Co-Chair of UCN and Director of ASPIRE Research Institute for Sustainability at Khalifa University participated in the Higher Education Climate Network of Networks Roundtable. Kristy Faccer, PhD, NoN Co-convenor welcomed attendees to the fifth annual roundtable, noting the involvement of 22 networks and four partner organizations. She introduced the day's agenda, which featured a presentation by Andy Deakin, Co-Managing Director, Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy on the role of cities in advancing climate action. Following the presentation, Stephen Davison, NoN Co-convenor reviewed past initiatives and work ahead, while Prof. Samuel Mao along with Dr. Thalita Dalbelo from the State University of Campinas led the discussions on strategies for improved COP host-country coordination. The roundtable aimed to strengthen collaboration within the global higher education sector, with an emphasis on sharing updates, advancing climate initiatives, and exploring how universities can further contribute to the sustainable development goals. Topics discussed during the roundtable ranged from the role of non-party stakeholders in the COP process, to the development of action plans and partnerships among higher education institutions worldwide to accelerate climate transitions. COP29 Azerbaijan #COP29 #sustainability #highereducation

Chaired by Dr. Mohammad Radfar, Associate Professor of Sustainable Urban Design and Planning, Programme Director of the University of Birmingham Dubai, the UAE Universities Climate Network hosted an urban planning workshop at COP29 Azerbaijan showcasing the UAE's leadership in sustainable urban development, emphasizing innovative frameworks essential for addressing global challenges like climate change and urban expansion. The event featured a panel of experts from United Arab Emirates University, Khalifa University, University of Birmingham Dubai, and Buro Happold who discussed the UAE's commitment to circular economy principles, highlighting successful initiatives such as Waste-to-Energy projects in cities like Dubai and Sharjah. The transition from smart to cognitive cities was a focal point, illustrating how advanced technologies like AI and machine learning can proactively solve urban issues, thereby enhancing quality of life and urban efficiency. Panel Members: Mohammad Radfar, Associate Professor of Sustainable Urban Design and Planning, Programme Director of the University of Birmingham Dubai Khaled Galal Ahmed, Professor of Architecture of United Arab Emirates University Dr. Khaled Alawadi, Associate Professor of Sustainable Urbanism of Khalifa University Pooja Ganatra, Senior Consultant – Sustainability of Buro Happold #COP29 #Sustainability #UrbanPlanning

🌍 Launch of the MENA Climate Solutions Research Network! 🌍   On November 15, 2024 at COP29 Azerbaijan, I had the privilege of co-hosting the launch of the MENA Climate Solutions Research Network (CSRN) alongside Dr Samuel Mao (UCN co-chair, Khalifa University), Stephen Davison (Higher Education Lead, Climate Champions Team) and Eman Wahby (MENA Engagement Lead, Climate Champions Team). This initiative, part of the UAE Universites Climate Network and supported by the Climate Champions Team, is a collaborative effort to address the most pressing climate challenges in the MENA region under the guidance of the "2030 Climate Solutions - Implementation Roadmap."   Key objectives of the MENA-CSRN: Our mission is to drive solutions in eight priority areas, including accelerating clean energy, transforming transport systems, restoring ecosystems, addressing water crises, and mobilizing finance for climate resilience. We aim to achieve this through:  * Technological innovations  * Advancing policies for sustainability and resilience  * Capacity building for communities and stakeholders  Why join us? The MENA-CSRN fosters collaboration with experts, policymakers, and institutions, offering opportunities to share knowledge, contribute to impactful projects, and make a tangible difference in the MENA region's sustainability efforts.    Thank you to all the attendees and supporters who helped make this launch a success. Special thanks to the Global Alliance of Universities on Climate (GAUC) for hosting us and in particular to Lin Lu (Manager, International Communication GAUC) for all your support. Together, we are building a more sustainable and climate-resilient future. If you’re interested in joining this initiative, please scan the QR. UAE Universities Climate Network University of Birmingham Dubai Sheena Cabasag #UCN #ClimateChampions #ClimateAction #MENAClimateSolutions #Sustainability #HigherEducationImpact #UAE #Collaboration #GAUC

Thrilled to represent Ajman University as a panelist at the 2nd Global Conference on Grace Preservation by Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) | الهلال الأحمر الإماراتي! I'll be speaking at the panel titled, "Towards a Sustainable Future in Local and Global Universities." As we delve into the critical issues of climate change, resource conservation, and social equity, I'm eager to share insights on empowering our youth towards a more sustainable future. I am also delighted to announce that my fellow colleagues from UAE Universities Climate Network will be joining me in this panel. Join the conversation and let's make a positive impact together. Register now at https://lnkd.in/dyPqsVzf and be part of the conversation. Lina Hourani Antonios Vouloudis Prof.sherine Farouk Nezar AlBataineh, Ph. D. Suzanna ElMassah #sustainability #highereducation #globalconference #climatechange #environment #sustainabledevelopment #capacitybuilding #youth #empowerment

Such a privilege to have represented University of Wollongong in Dubai as a PhD student at the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP29 Azerbaijan on behalf of UAE Universities Climate Network The workshop “Girls and Carbon Literacy: Empowering Girls in the Global South through Technology” explored the intersection of carbon literacy, gender inequality, and the transformative role that Marketing and AI can play in fostering climate resilience among girls. It was closely aligned with the UN SDGs of Gender Equality (SDG 5), Quality Education (SDG 4) and Climate Action (SDG 13). This enriching experience was made possible by UOWD and the guidance of Dr. Zeenath Reza Khan, PhD who curated this impactful workshop. Thank you Dr. Zeenath for trusting me to deliver it. A heartfelt thank you also goes to the Dean of School of Business Professor Payyazhi Jayashree and my supervisors Dr. Prakash Vel MBA, M.Phil, Ph.d., FCIM (UK) and Dr. Rumaila Abbas for their unwavering support and encouragement. Here’s to leveraging knowledge and innovation to make a difference! #COP29 #climateresilience #GirlsinSTEM #genderequality #marketingandAI

Youth Engagement Workshop Chaired by the University of Birmingham Dubai and Manipal Academy of Higher Education - MAHE, Dubai, 9 students from the UAE Universities Climate Network members namely; University of Birmingham Dubai, New York University Abu Dhabi, Khalifa University, Zayed University, University of Wollongong in Dubai, Ajman University, and American University of Sharjah facilititated the Youth Engagement Workshop during COP29 Azerbaijan. The workshop engaged participants in an interactive format designed to deepen their understanding of carbon footprints in everyday life. The workshop kicked-off with an introduction including an icebreaker activity that allowed attendees to share their own carbon-reducing practices. Participants were then invited to explore key topics such as energy consumption, waste reduction, and sustainable transportation. Each student facilitator presented their insights and experiences related to carbon literacy, employing engaging quiz formats to stimulate discussion and learning. The topics included organizing climate action events, measuring the environmental impact of plastic waste, working with brands to enhance carbon literacy knowledge, and understanding personal spending and tracking carbon development. The student facilitators shared actionable knowledge that participants could apply in their lives. The workshop concluded with a highlight from Khalifa University, where students emphasized the importance of student engagement in sustainability efforts such as the green campus competition where the winners from Ajman University, NYUAD, and Khalifa University were present. The first winner from Ajman University then briefly shared her winning piece – the green electric pot. #Sustainability #COP29 #YouthEngagement Dr Rasha Bayoumi Rebecca Keogh (SFHEA) Bhakti More Julia Carlow Suzanna ElMassah Zeenath Reza Khan, PhD Shamma Humaid Alkindi Yugmee Gidiya Sameera Khan Darma Egegaard Fransis Van Ravenswaay Vidhi Sharma Khalid Adam Jassem Alhammadi Doaa Al Alimi Sheena Cabasag

Water Security Workshop Chaired by Dr. Samuel Mao, Co-chair of the UAE Universities Climate Network (UCN) and Director of ASPIRE Research Institute for Sustainability, Khalifa University, the UCN hosted a workshop as part of the Water Thematic Day at COP29 Azerbaijan. Following the launch of the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative, the workshop brought together experts to address the pressing challenges of water scarcity through innovative management and technological advancements. The workshop featured presentations about the MBZ Water Initiative, XPRIZE Water Scarcity, atmospheric water generation (AWG), and irrigating coastal landscapes with reclaimed water (RW) in Dubai. The workshop culminated in a panel discussion with representatives from Khalifa University, the American University in Dubai, Abu Dhabi University, and the Global Alliance of Universities on Climate (GAUC). The panel focused on investing water security where the panelists explored the critical components of water management, infrastructure development, and investment strategies, and the youth’s contribution necessary for sustainable water solutions. Panel Members: Dr. Samuel Mao (Chair) Dr. Shadi Wajih Hasan Dr. Meis Moukayed Dr. CHARILAOS MERTZANIS Ms. Alice Ho #WaterSecurity #COP29 #Sustainability