Ajman University’s Green Dialogues: Driving Sustainability Conversations Before COP28

Ajman University’s Green Dialogues – Driving Sustainability Conversations Before COP28

Ajman University's Green Dialogues series was launched in support of COP28, bringing together experts and leaders to discuss the pressing issues in sustainability. These dialogues explored various aspects of climate action and the role of individuals, organizations, and educational institutions in shaping a viable future.

Episode 1: Sustainable Actions and the Role of Education

Hosted by Naila Zuhoor from the College of Dentistry, this pilot episode featured Mohammad Balila, College of Architecture discussing the pivotal importance of COP28 in addressing global sustainability trends in architecture and sustainable cities. Key themes included the need for collective action to combat climate change and how small, individual actions such as recycling can contribute to a greater impact. The dialogue argued that sustainability should be incorporated into all aspects of education and daily life. Balila also emphasized the importance of public transport, local sourcing, and corporate accountability for real progress in sustainable development.

Key Insights:

• Interdisciplinary Education: Sustainability must be integrated across all educational disciplines to promote innovative eco-friendly practices.
• Historical Design Wisdom: Learning from the past, nature-respecting architectural designs can guide contemporary sustainable practices.
• Corporate Accountability: Companies must be transparent in their efforts to build trust and drive meaningful changes.

Episode 2: Sustainable Mobility and Climate Financing

Hosted by Dana Mahmoud, a senior student at the College of Architecture and featuring a notable guest from the sustainable mobility and electric vehicles industry: Dr. Rami Al Ashri from E&A The episode highlighted the significance of COP28 as a turning point for global climate action. The discussion centered on sustainable mobility, especially the transition to electric vehicles, and the need for robust infrastructure to support this shift. The episode also highlighted climate financing, stressing the importance of financial support for developing nations to meet their sustainability goals. Dr. Rami urged that universities and educational systems to incorporate sustainability at an early age to create a culture of responsibility and stewardship.

Key Insights:

• Action-Oriented Solutions: COP28 must shift the global conversation from pledges to action-oriented climate action.
• Electric vehicles are just one part of the solution, with cycling, walking, and public transport playing crucial roles.
• Climate Financing: Financial investments are crucial for global efforts, particularly for the development of developing countries.

Episode 3: Youth Empowerment and Sustainable Design

In this episode, Jenan Mehdi, a senior student at the College of Business Administration interviewed Dr. Tahar Salah from the College of Architecture. Dr. Taher discussed the role of youth empowerment in driving future sustainable development. The dialogue highlighted the importance of universities in fostering environmental awareness among students and how disciplines such as interior design can incorporate sustainability to enhance occupant well-being and the built environment. Dr. Salah also addressed the challenges faced in the adoption of eco-friendly practices, particularly the lack of awareness and the prohibitive cost of sustainable materials. Networking and collaboration are essential for young leaders in sustainability to take the lead in the future of climate change.

Key Insights:

• Youth Empowerment: Today's youth are the architects of tomorrow's sustainability initiatives.
• Designers can combine aesthetics with eco-friendly materials to create a sustainable, healthy environment.
• Innovative Practices: The rise of upcycling and creative waste reduction strategies highlights the increasing trend towards environmental responsibility.

The first season of Green Dialogues has set the stage for COP28, offering actionable insights and sparking conversations about the urgent need for sustainability across industries and communities.