seventh edition: climate talk series
by SEE Institute
A Climate-Conscious Future Navigating Sustainable Practices in Tourism, Hospitality and Events
December 12th 2024
08:30 AM – 01:00 PM
SEE Institute
overview
The 7th edition of the Climate Talk Series focuses on the dynamic intersection of Tourism, Event Management, and Climate Action, highlighting the roles of Destination Management and Marketing in shaping a sustainable future.
This series offers a platform to discover and discuss innovative solutions and best practices in Tourism, Hospitality and Events, while also addressing how Destination Management Organizations are adapting their marketing strategies to drive sustainability. During this edition we aim to recognize the complexity of balancing environmental stewardship with economic growth for the industry.
Come JOIN US in shaping a climate-ready future, where tourism and events thrive as dynamic forces for environmental sustainability and social responsibility. Together, we will explore strategies to minimize environmental impact, enhance community engagement, and foster economic growth.
who should attend
Tourism professionals & Travel agents
Event managers
Government delegates
Professionals from various business sectors
Environment and Sustainability Advocates and Enthusiasts
Business owners interested in tourism and events management
Professors and students interested in tourism and events management
Key discussion objectives
- Promote sustainability within the tourism, hospitality and event management sectors by sharing knowledge, best practices, and innovative approaches.
- Empower participants with actionable insights and strategies to navigate the complexities of sustainable tourism, hospitality, and event management.
- Increase awareness about the impact of tourism, hospitality, and event management sectors on the environment.
- Inspire individuals and organizations to adopt sustainable practices in their tourism, hospitality, and event management endeavours.
- Foster collaboration and networking among stakeholders to address climate-related challenges.
Agenda
08:30 – 09:00 AM
Registration & Networking
09:00 – 09:10 AM
Welcome address
Dr. Jacinta Dsilva
Director of Research, Living Lab and International Partnerships
09:10 – 09:25 AM
Keynote
Designing Sustainable Event Experiences: Practical Strategies for Greener Venues Partner/DestinationMahir Julfar
Executive Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre
09:25 – 09:40 AM
Guest of Honor
Bridging Climate Action and Tourism: Creating Sustainable Destinations through Strategic DevelopmentH.E. Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi
Former Minister of Climate Change and Environment in the UAE
09:40 – 09:45 AM
Spotlight Keynote
Destination Dubai: Pioneering Sustainable Destination Management for a Greener FutureTaleed Al-Khatib
Sustainability Manager
The Department of Economy and Tourism
09:55 – 10:10 AM
Guest Presentation
Accelerating the Transition to a circular and regenerative economy through Tourism and Destination ManagementGuy Bigwood,
FIEMA CEO and Chief Changemaker Global Destination Sustainability Movement
(GDS-Movement)
10:10 – 10:50AM
Masterclass
Tourism and the Blue Economy: A Pathway to Resilient Hospitality and EventsEng. Ahmed Nabil
Founder
Alpha Diving Consultancy
10:50 – 11:20 AM
Networking Break
11:20 – 11:40 AM
Fireside Chat – CVB Spotlight
From Concept to Execution: How Convention Bureaus Facilitate and Attract Green EventsModerator:
TBA
Members:
Mubarak Alshamsi,
Director - Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau, Department of Culture and Tourism (Tentative)
Dubai Business Events, Department of Economy and Tourism (Tentative)
11:40 – 12:25 AM
Panel Discussion
Sustainability in Action: Navigating the Challenges and Opportunities of Climate-Resilient Tourism, Hospitality and Mega Events in the Middle EastModerator:
Nadine Zidani
Founder - MENA Impact
Panel members:
Dr. Mohammad Irfan Shaikh,
Programme Director
SEE Academy
Sheena Khan
Head - Environment & Culture Programs
Cathy Mead
General Manager, Safarak
12:25 - 12:30 PM
Closing remarks and Group Photo
12:30 Onwards
Networking
Speakers
Welcome adDress
Dr. Jacinta DsilvaResearch Director, Living Lab and International Partnership
Keynote Speaker
Mahir JulfarExecutive Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre
Guest of Honor
H.E. Dr. Abdullah BelhaifAl Nuaimi
Former Minister of Climate Change and Environment in the UAE
Keynote Speaker
Taleed Al-KhatibSustainability Manager at The Department of Economy and Tourism
Presenter
Guy BigwoodFIEMA CEO and Chief Changemaker
Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS-Movement)
presenter
Eng. Ahmed NabilFounder – Alpha Diving Consultancy
Panel moderator
Nadine ZidaniFounder - MENA Impact
Panel member
Dr. Mohammad Irfan ShaikhProgramme Director - SEE Academy
Panel member
Sheena KhanHead - Environment & Culture Programs - Education & Culture
Panel member
Cathy MeadGeneral Manager - Safarak
