Latest news with #Earthna
Zawya
24-04-2025
- General
- Zawya
QF's Earthna Summit 2025 concludes with strengthened foundations for future collaboration
Doha, Qatar: The Earthna Summit 2025, organized by Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future, a member of Qatar Foundation, concluded today after two transformative days of cross-sector collaboration, bold ideas, and inclusive dialogue under the theme 'Building Our Legacy: Sustainability, Innovation, and Traditional Knowledge'. The Summit drew more than 2,000 attendees, further solidifying Earthna's role as a leading convenor for sustainability innovation in hot and arid regions. Day two opened with a session titled 'Women Leading Collaboration: Partnerships for Sustainable Development', which emphasized the crucial role women play in advancing Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 17: Partnerships for the Goals. The panel brought together leaders from government, diplomacy, and the development sector, focusing on how inclusive leadership is shaping effective partnerships, new financing models, and policies, to accelerate global sustainability efforts. 'It is time to support their leadership with the tools and resources they need, and to walk alongside them in shaping a more collaborative and equitable future. The moment to act together is not coming: it is already here,' said H.E. Ambassador Patricia Espinosa Cantellano, former Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and founding partner and CEO of onepoint5. 'Change does not happen in isolation. It happens when we invest, innovate, and generate impact together.' Her Excellency Dr. Hamda Al-Sulaiti, Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council, also spoke during the session, underlining the importance of advancing SDG 17. 'It is the voices, vision, and values of women that are forging the most resilient and transformative pathways toward a more sustainable and equitable world,' she remarked. Curated networking was also a major focus, paving the way for high-level panels later in the day that addressed pressing environmental challenges—from sustainability frameworks beyond GDP to the role of faith-based approaches in advancing environmental stewardship. Another highlight of the Summit was the plenary session on the Arid Cities Network, where leaders advanced plans for a groundbreaking alliance aimed at facilitating knowledge sharing of climate solutions for arid urban centers. 'What I've witnessed here is more than a summit—it's a movement,' said Rafael López Aliaga, Mayor of Lima. 'Over the past two days, I've had the honor of reconnecting with peers and engaging with inspiring individuals from across sectors and around the world. There's a shared energy here—everyone is eager to go home, stay connected, and continue driving forward toward real, scalable solutions. This momentum is only the beginning, and I want to thank Earthna for bringing us all together.' The roundtable conversations tackled pressing issues, including the challenges facing displaced populations, the insights found in traditional urbanism, and the critical need for regional air quality coordination. Meanwhile, the interactive Agora Sessions and Earthna Village spotlighted community-led solutions, social enterprises, and grassroots innovation, with a discussion examining how traditional architecture and heritage preservation can play a pivotal role in rebuilding cities after conflict, fostering resilience, and reclaiming community identity. 'It has been an honor to host the Earthna Summit in Msheireb—a living example of what sustainable urban innovation can achieve in arid environments,' said Eng. Ali Al Kuwari, CEO of Msheireb Properties. 'Cities like ours face immense challenges, but through collaboration, shared knowledge, and bold thinking, we can shape resilient cities for generations to come.' The Summit was delivered in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, alongside corporate and content partners. These included QF member Hamad Bin Khalifa University's Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute and College of Islamic Studies, QF partner university Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, Woqod, Msheireb Properties, QF-founded QatarDebate, Ashghal, QF's Al-Mujadilah Center and Mosque for Women, the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation Council, and QF's Doha Debates, World Innovation Summit for Health, and global education initiative WISE. International collaborations included the Middle East Council for Global Affairs, the International Institute for Sustainable Development, Caravane Earth, AIA Middle East, Royal Holloway University of London, the Climate Governance Commission, the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, the King's Foundation, and the International Network for Traditional Building, Architecture and Urbanism (INTBAU). Earthna Village came to life through dynamic collaborations with the International Trade Center, Hamad Bin Khalifa University's Qur'anic Botanic Garden, Torba Naturals, Zero Waste Design, Carvers, INTBAU, QF partner university Texas A&M University at Qatar, Royal Thai Embassy, DADU, Hadiqaa, Heenat Salma, and QF's Herfah at Al Khater House program. Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future (Earthna) is a non-profit policy, research, and advocacy organization, established by Qatar Foundation (QF) to promote and enable a coordinated approach to environmental, social, and economic sustainability and prosperity. Earthna is a facilitator of sustainability efforts and action in Qatar and other hot and arid countries, focusing on sustainability frameworks, circular economies, energy transition, climate change, biodiversity and ecosystems, cities and the built environment, and education, ethics, and faith. By bringing together technical experts, researchers, government and non-government organizations, businesses, civil society, and policy and decision-makers, Earthna fosters collaboration, innovation, and positive change. Using their home—Education City—as a testbed, Earthna develops and trials sustainable solutions and evidence-based policies for Qatar and hot and arid regions. The organization is committed to combining modern thinking with traditional knowledge, contributing to the well-being of society by creating a legacy of sustainability within a thriving natural environment. Qatar Foundation – 30 Years of Unlocking Human Potential Qatar Foundation (QF) is a non-profit organization which, for 30 years, has supported the sustainable human, social, and economic development of Qatar through entities, programs, and initiatives focused on education, science and research, and community development. QF was founded in 1995 by His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir of Qatar, and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, who shared the vision of providing quality education for everyone in Qatar. In the three decades since, this vision has evolved into a globally unique, multidisciplinary ecosystem of knowledge – offering opportunities for lifelong learning, fostering innovation, and empowering people to be socially engaged citizens and drivers of positive change. This diverse but interconnected ecosystem comprises a world-class education landscape spanning the full spectrum of learning from pre-school to post-doctoral level; research, innovation, and policy centers addressing some of the world's greatest challenges facing the world; alongside community facilities for people of all ages to seek knowledge, embrace active lifestyles, and expand their horizons within QF's Education City, spanning 12 square kilometers in Doha, Qatar. With its efforts concentrated on generating impact in five key areas – progressive education, sustainability, Artificial Intelligence, precision health, and social progress – QF remains committed, as it has been for the past 30 years, to investing in Qatar and its people, and contributing to shaping a better world for all.
Zawya
23-04-2025
- Science
- Zawya
QF's Earthna Summit returns to Doha for Second Edition
Participants from over 100 countries attended the first day of the Summit to discuss sustainable solutions for arid and hot environments Doha, Qatar: The Earthna Summit 2025 officially commenced today in Doha under the theme 'Building Our Legacy: Sustainability, Innovation and Traditional Knowledge', bringing together local and global leaders, experts, policymakers, and youth from more than 100 countries. Organized by the Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future, a member of Qatar Foundation (QF), and in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the Summit coinciding with International Earth Day in Msheireb, Doha. Addressing the event, Minister of Environment and Climate Change H E Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Subaie said that Earthna Summit provides an important strategic platform for enhancing dialogue and coordinating efforts to address the challenges of climate change, especially in countries with hot and arid climates, most notably the GCC states. He noted the importance of dialogue and the exchange of visions based on traditional knowledge and diverse cultures in developing sustainable solutions that combine the past and the future and enhance international cooperation in addressing environmental challenges. The opening session included the inaugural Earthna Prize ceremony, where four exceptional projects were honored for their outstanding environmental stewardship rooted in traditional knowledge. The Earthna Summit opening ceremony also featured an inspiring keynote by Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus, who shared his vision for leveraging social innovation to drive sustainable development. During the day's program, Justin Mundy, Chair of Earthna, emphasized the importance of uniting global voices to address shared sustainability challenges, particularly the urgent need to reimagine climate finance. 'This year's Earthna Summit comes at a critical time—midway between COP29 and COP30,' he said. 'It's more than a gathering; it's a catalyst for action. By bringing together knowledge holders, innovators, and decision-makers, we create a space where ideas converge and evolve into tangible solutions.' Dr. Gonzalo Castro de la Mata, Executive Director of Earthna, echoed this sentiment, saying, 'Summit attendees are united by common challenges, shared aspirations, and a commitment to measurable impact. By providing a platform that encourages dialogue, we hope to build a legacy of sustainability for future generations to carry forward.' The Summit also hosted the International Network for Traditional Building, Architecture and Urbanism Conference, convening global experts to explore urban development rooted in traditional architecture. Earthna Village: Celebrating Sustainability Rooted in Local Tradition As the first day of the Earthna Summit came to a close, the heart of the gathering came to life with the opening of the Earthna Village. At its center, the Agora Sessions featured a dynamic lineup of speakers, including Dr. Damilola Olawuyi, UNESCO Chairholder and Professor of Environmental Law and Sustainable Development at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of QF; Hamza Yassin, wildlife cameraman and presenter; and Charlene Ruto, a passionate climate change activist with the SMACHS Foundation. These sessions fostered open dialogue on sustainable futures rooted in cultural context and lived experience. Attendees also engaged in hands-on workshops and exhibits, exploring traditional water conservation, natural cooling techniques, and time-honored weaving and farming practices. The Earthna Village offered a space to discover how traditional knowledge can inform and inspire future solutions. As Earthna Summit 2025 continues for a second day of dialogue, sessions, and keynotes, participants will explore deeper intersections of culture, climate, and innovation—building collective momentum toward a more sustainable future, rooted in both tradition and innovation. Research and Reports Unveiled at the Earthna Summit 2025 The first day of the Earthna Summit featured the release of several key research and policy publications focused on sustainability and environmental stewardship. Semiotics of Nature, jointly developed by Earthna and HBKU's College of Islamic Studies, explores the connections between nature, semiotics, and spirituality, promoting an environmental ethic rooted in both faith and science. Towards the Development of a Sustainability Framework for Qatar, produced by Earthna, Wealth Fair Economics, and the University of Sussex Business School, introduces Inclusive Wealth as a foundation for balanced development. Carbon Emissions Reduction Strategies for Qatar - A policy dossier co-authored by Earthna and the Middle East Council on Global Affairs examines carbon reduction strategies aligned with Qatar's National Vision 2030. Earthna's brief 'Qatar's Ecology: An Assessment with Recommendations' assesses Qatar's ecological landscape and offers actionable recommendations for sustainability. The Earthna report 'Traditional Knowledge in Water Resource Management' highlights traditional water management practices from Oman, Spain, Peru, and Ethiopia, underscoring their role in climate resilience and community-led conservation. Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future (Earthna) is a non-profit policy, research, and advocacy organisation, established by Qatar Foundation (QF) to promote and enable a coordinated approach to environmental, social, and economic sustainability and prosperity. Earthna is a facilitator of sustainability efforts and action in Qatar and other hot and arid countries, focusing on sustainability frameworks, circular economies, energy transition, climate change, biodiversity and ecosystems, cities and the built environment, and education, ethics, and faith. By bringing together technical experts, researchers, government and non-government organisations, businesses, civil society, and policy and decision-makers, Earthna fosters collaboration, innovation, and positive change. Using their home Education City as a testbed, Earthna develops and trials sustainable solutions and evidence-based policies for Qatar and hot and arid regions. The organisation is committed to combining modern thinking with traditional knowledge, contributing to the well-being of society by creating a legacy of sustainability within a thriving natural environment. For more information about Earthna please visit: To stay up to date on our social media activities, follow our accounts on: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X and LinkedIn. For media inquiries, please contact: Qatar Foundation – 30 Years of Unlocking Human Potential Qatar Foundation (QF) is a non-profit organisation which, for 30 years, has supported the sustainable human, social, and economic development of Qatar through entities, programs, and initiatives focused on education, science and research, and community development. QF was founded in 1995 by His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir of Qatar, and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, who shared the vision of providing quality education for everyone in Qatar. In the three decades since, this vision has evolved into a globally unique, multidisciplinary ecosystem of knowledge – offering opportunities for lifelong learning, fostering innovation, and empowering people to be socially engaged citizens and drivers of positive change. This diverse but interconnected ecosystem comprises a world-class education landscape spanning the full spectrum of learning from pre-school to post-doctoral level; research, innovation, and policy centres addressing some of the world's greatest challenges facing the world; alongside community facilities for people of all ages to seek knowledge, embrace active lifestyles, and expand their horizons within QF's Education City, spanning 12 square kilometres in Doha, Qatar. With its efforts concentrated on generating impact in five key areas – progressive education, sustainability, Artificial Intelligence, precision health, and social progress – QF remains committed, as it has been for the past 30 years, to investing in Qatar and its people, and contributing to shaping a better world for all. For a complete list of QF's initiatives and projects, please visit: To stay up to date on our social media activities, follow our accounts on: Instagram, Facebook, X and LinkedIn For any media inquiries, please contact: pressoffice@
Zawya
14-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Qatar Foundation's Earthna to launch the second edition of Earthna Summit 2025
Doha, Qatar – Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future (Earthna), a member of Qatar Foundation, has announced plans for the second edition of the Earthna Summit 2025, that features Earthna Village, along with multiple sessions and interactive workshops. Set for April 22-23, 2025, at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, bin Jelmood Museum and Barahat Msheireb, the Earthna Summit will focus on 'Building Our Legacy: Sustainability, Innovation, and Traditional Knowledge.' It will bring together global policymakers, thought leaders, academics, and businesses to tackle environmental challenges while showcasing Qatar's commitment to sustainability in hot and arid environments, integrating cultural heritage and ecosystems into modern solutions. This year's Summit will explore how traditional knowledge and innovation can shape a resilient, inclusive future. With over 1,000 participants from 100+ countries, it will foster meaningful dialogue, share solutions, and influence global sustainability policies. 'Addressing the pressing sustainability challenges of our time requires fresh perspectives and bold collaboration,' said Dr. Gonzalo Castro de la Mata, Executive Director of Earthna. 'The Earthna Summit provides a crucial platform to bring together diverse voices and expertise, bridging the gap between traditional knowledge and cutting-edge innovation. By learning from the past and embracing new technologies, we can build a truly sustainable legacy for future generations.' Additionally, Earthna is hosting the INTBAU Qatar Conference at the Earthna Summit 2025 on Rethinking Urban Development through Traditional Architecture. The sessions will explore whether place-specific knowledge, human-scale design, and resource efficiency in urban models can provide viable solutions to contemporary challenges. Engineer Ahmad Mohammed Al Sada, Assistant Undersecretary for Climate Change Affairs for the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the Strategic Partner of the Earthna Summit, said: 'The Earthna Summit exemplifies Qatar's commitment to leading on sustainability locally and internationally. We are actively bridging our rich heritage with cutting-edge climate solutions. This summit is crucial for developing concrete, global responses to the urgent environmental challenges we face.' A key highlight of the Earthna Summit will be the announcement of the Earthna Prize winners. The inaugural prize honors projects integrating traditional knowledge to tackle environmental challenges in water management, food security, sustainable urbanism, and land stewardship. Four winners, selected from over 400 submissions across 100+ countries, will share a $1M prize to advance their work. Building on the success of 2023, Earthna Summit returns with Earthna Village at Barahat Msheireb—a vibrant hub of collaboration, innovation, and learning. Thought leaders, Earthna Prize winners, and the community will engage in interactive experiences that highlight Qatar Foundation's (QF) projects and groundbreaking sustainability efforts. The Village features three dynamic zones focused on Sustainable Urbanism, Sustainable Living and Eco-Learning, plus exhibition spaces and lively Agora Sessions for bilingual discussions sparking fresh ideas. A place for networking, family fun, and inspiration, Earthna Village invites all generations to explore and embrace nature-based solutions for a brighter, sustainable future. Speakers at the Earthna Summit and Village include Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus Honorable Chief Advisor to the Government of Bangladesh, Ibrahim Thiaw (UNCCD), artist Thijs Biersteker, Gauri Singh (IRENA), and local experts such as His Excellency Fahad Bin Mohammed Al-Attiyah, Dr. Tareq Al-Ansari, and Dr. Akel Ismail Kahera from Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of QF. Earthna is proud to have the support of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the Strategic Partner of the Summit. In addition to collaborating with numerous local, regional and international organizations, including Woqod, Msheireb Properties, QRDI, Qatar Debate, Doha Debate, AIA Middle East, The Royal Thai Embassy Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), HBKU's College of Islamic Studies, Middle East Council for Global Affairs, Caravane Earth, Royal Holloway University of London, Climate Governance Commission, The King's Foundation, and UNCCD. For more information on the Summit or to register to receive updates, please visit About Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future (Earthna) is a non-profit policy, research, and advocacy organisation, established by Qatar Foundation (QF) to promote and enable a coordinated approach to environmental, social, and economic sustainability and prosperity. Earthna is a facilitator of sustainability efforts and action in Qatar and other hot and arid countries, focusing on sustainability frameworks, circular economies, energy transition, climate change, biodiversity and ecosystems, cities and the built environment, and education, ethics, and faith. By bringing together technical experts, researchers, government and non-government organisations, businesses, civil society, and policy and decision-makers, Earthna fosters collaboration, innovation, and positive change. Using their home—Education City—as a testbed, Earthna develops and trials sustainable solutions and evidence-based policies for Qatar and hot and arid regions. The organisation is committed to combining modern thinking with traditional knowledge, contributing to the well-being of society by creating a legacy of sustainability within a thriving natural environment. For more information about Earthna please visit: To stay up to date on our social media activities, follow our accounts on: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X and LinkedIn. For media inquiries, please contact: About Qatar Foundation – 30 Years of Unlocking Human Potential Qatar Foundation (QF) is a non-profit organisation which, for 30 years, has supported the sustainable human, social, and economic development of Qatar through entities, programs, and initiatives focused on education, science and research, and community development. QF was founded in 1995 by His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir of Qatar, and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, who shared the vision of providing quality education for everyone in Qatar. In the three decades since, this vision has evolved into a globally unique, multidisciplinary ecosystem of knowledge – offering opportunities for lifelong learning, fostering innovation, and empowering people to be socially engaged citizens and drivers of positive change. This diverse but interconnected ecosystem comprises a world-class education landscape spanning the full spectrum of learning from pre-school to post-doctoral level; research, innovation, and policy centres addressing some of the world's greatest challenges facing the world; alongside community facilities for people of all ages to seek knowledge, embrace active lifestyles, and expand their horizons within QF's Education City, spanning 12 square kilometres in Doha, Qatar. With its efforts concentrated on generating impact in five key areas – progressive education, sustainability, Artificial Intelligence, precision health, and social progress – QF remains committed, as it has been for the past 30 years, to investing in Qatar and its people, and contributing to shaping a better world for all. For a complete list of QF's initiatives and projects, please visit: To stay up to date on our social media activities, follow our accounts on: Instagram, Facebook, X and LinkedIn For any media inquiries, please contact: pressoffice@
Times of Oman
25-02-2025
- Science
- Times of Oman
Oman Climate Week showcases youth initiatives for environment protection
Muscat: An exhibition, held on the sidelines of Oman Climate Week, is showcasing the latest innovations and technologies in the field of climate change and environment conservation. The event is taking place at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre. As part of its commitment to enhance regional efforts to address climate change and achieve sustainable development, a Qatar Foundation-affiliated centre named 'Earthna' presents its vision and prominent research findings on environmental and sustainability issues. Qatar Foundation and the Environment Authority seek to consolidate strategic partnerships and exchange expertise with the aim of developing policies and programmes that contribute to achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) at the regional level, notably in the fields of environment conservation. Mohammed Alaa El-Din Mohammed, Sustainable Development Principal Expert at Earthna centre, said, 'Participating in Oman Climate Week provides an important step towards enhancing joint GCC cooperation in addressing climate change. This initiative reflects the growing interest in sustainable solutions and underlines the importance of enhancing regional action and cooperation among leading GCC institutions to achieve a tangible and sustainable impact.' He explained that Earthna centre enlightens participants in the activities of Oman Climate Week about the White Papers Initiative 2024, which was launched and prepared in accordance with the outcomes of Qatar National Dialogue on Climate Change 2024. The annual event, he explained, was organised by Earthna centre in cooperation with partners with the aim of addressing the challenges of climate change and promoting sustainable development through rapprochement among government officials, leaders from the industrial sector, environmental experts and representatives of civil society. He added that the White Papers initiative includes recommendations and policies aimed at boosting efforts towards the realisation of a low-carbon economy in Qatar and the GCC region. Mohammed Alaa El-Din Mohammed pointed out that Oman Climate Week constitutes a vital platform for presenting these papers to decision-makers and experts and providing new opportunities for dialogue and cooperation on how to implement these recommendations. He stated that the missions, programmes and initiatives of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development evolve around education, research, innovation and community development and that such efforts are integrated to develop communities in Qatar and the world. The exhibition, held on the sidelines of Oman Climate Week, featured youth initiatives in the field of the environment conservation, including one themed 'Our Footprint is Different'—a non-profit youth project that deals with ways of achieving environmental sustainability and spreading environmental awareness in society. The initiative seeks to bring about positive and sustainable change through a range of pioneering environmental programmes and activities with the aim of promoting ecotourism, bringing about a sustainable culture and enabling individuals to actively participate in protecting the environment. It also seeks to implement activities and programmes that provide innovative solutions aimed at improving the local environment, including programmes titled 'Let's Plant', 'Sustainability Ambassadors', 'Women Environmental Leaders', 'Green School', 'Green View' and 'Capture Nature'. The Climate Ambassadors Initiative, which specializes in issues of climate change and sustainability, focuses on raising environmental awareness and building capacities among individuals and communities across the Sultanate of Oman. The initiative seeks to enhance deep understanding of climate change, biodiversity and natural resources management, in addition to encouraging the endorsement of sustainable practices that contribute to diminishing impacts on the environment. The Environment Conservation Initiative specialises in the areas of environment, education, awareness and the media. The programme provides knowledge through podcasts to raise public awareness and encourage positive behaviour towards the environment. Its key programmes include dialogues, audio programmes using podcast technology and digital knowledge content. Oman Water Society reviews environmental challenges (in the contest of change to the climate, water and air) and it considers ways to produce sustainable crops using green energy. Eng. Zahir bin Sulaiman Al Salmani, Chairman of the Oman Water Society, explained that the Society specializes in water issues in the Sultanate of Oman, researching water issues and finding appropriate solutions for related challenges. He pointed out that Oman Water Society aims to encourage research, studies, training programmes and capacity development, in addition to efforts to enhance cooperation among institutions, establishments and individuals. Madad Development Foundation, an establishment specialised in empowering youth that is taking part in Oman Climate Week, focuses on issues of climate change, environment conservation and sustainability. Alia Bilarab Al Batashi, a representative of Madad Development Foundation, said that the exhibition provides an opportunity to build partnerships with government and private establishments, investors and those interested in environment conservation.
