G-STIC at COP28 in 2023: Empowering collaborative technology and innovation for climate action
The G-STIC event on 2 December 2023 during COP28 convened prominent leaders from global Research and Technology Organisations (RTOs) to explore strategies for enhancing collaboration in technology and innovation. This gathering highlighted the essential role of RTOs in sharing experiences, disseminating knowledge, and implementing effective public policy tools to tackle pressing climate challenges.
Inge Neven (CEO of VITO) shared insights into leveraging innovation for climate objectives, while Paulo Gadelha (Senior Researcher at Fiocruz), discussed Fiocruz’s approach to the 2030 Agenda and sustainable development. Vibha Dhawan (Director General of The Energy and Resources Institute) examined energy-focused technological solutions aimed at building resilience against climate threats. Together, their contributions highlighted how RTOs are uniquely positioned to spearhead technology-based solutions in climate response.
A pivotal moment for climate action and sustainable development
With global temperatures hitting record highs, and extreme weather events affecting people around the globe, COP28 was a pivotal opportunity to correct course and accelerate action to tackle the climate crisis. A stable climate and planetary health are critical conditions for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in multiple areas, from zero-carbon energy to food security, eradicating poverty, water scarcity and more.
In the face of numerous concurrent crises, including the Covid-19 pandemic, the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, as well as energy insecurity and military conflicts, urgent action is needed. The G-STIC event during COP28 reinforced the importance of technological innovation and collaboration as pathways to overcome these challenges and fulfill the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.