Transforming Climate Action: Highlights from the CARE MENA 2025 Forum

The CARE MENA 2025 Forum, organised by Trescon, gathered key figures in sustainability, climate action, and renewable energy at Madinat Jumeirah.

The event aimed to drive climate innovation, influence policies, and celebrate leaders setting the climate and ESG agenda in the MENA region. This forum coincided with the DATE Summit, which focuses on digit, AI, and emerging technologies.

Over two days, CARE MENA 2025 welcomed over 1,000 attendees and 60+ speakers, including policymakers, investors, and industry leaders from more than 30 countries.

The exhibition featured research unveilings and discussions on partnerships, solidifying the Forum's status as the region's top platform for climate collaboration and innovation.

Focus on Climate Innovation

Innovation was a central theme at the Forum, highlighted by the CARE Launchpad, where regional thought leaders presented groundbreaking research and announcements. The student-led CARE Innovation Programme showcased the future of sustainability with solutions poised to address climate challenges effectively.

The Forum attracted influential leaders from countries like the UAE, KSA, and Lebanon, who participated in high-level discussions on climate innovation, ESG leadership, and sustainable finance. Through panels and roundtables, delegates shared insights, formed strategic partnerships, and initiated initiatives to shape the region's climate and sustainability agenda.

Collaborative Efforts for Sustainability

During her session, Alice Spencer, Executive Director of Education at Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, UK, emphasized the importance of industry collaboration.

She stated, "Industry collaboration is so important and will require aviation execs to step out of their usual patterns of leadership. Collaborating on shared problems in supply chain and technology then competing on product and service will be key to mobilise change at scale of industry."

Naveen Bharadwaj, CEO of Trescon, highlighted the need for regional cooperation to enhance sustainable solutions. He remarked, "CARE MENA has been an extraordinary showcase of leadership, innovation, and collaboration. Over two days, we've witnessed the region's top minds come together to advance transformative climate action, share bold ideas, and celebrate those leading the way. The discussions, innovations, and awards from this Forum will resonate across MENA for years to come."

Recognition and Impact

The ClimateTech World Cup featured five shortlisted start-ups presenting innovative solutions. Circa Biotech emerged victorious for their waste management solutions, earning mentorship and engagement with top investors. The competition aimed to fast-track the next generation of climate innovators towards impactful contributions.

Alex Pavan, Founder & CEO of emtribe, expressed his admiration for the Forum's role in driving sustainability. "CARE has truly set the benchmark for sustainability and climate leadership in the region," he said. "The collaboration between policymakers, innovators, and investors is driving real-world solutions that will shape a low-carbon, resilient, and future-ready MENA economy."

Dr. Faisal Rashid, Senior Director at the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, used his keynote to emphasize Dubai's Net Zero ambitions and its role as a regional leader in climate action.

The forum also featured the CARE ESG Awards, recognizing outstanding leaders and organisations driving sustainability and climate resilience in the region.

Supported by emtribe and sponsored by CERO HERO, Enjazponic, and S&P Global, CARE MENA 2025 served as a catalyst for regional collaboration.

The event emphasised the urgent need for decisive actions to achieve significant climate impact across MENA, aligning with global sustainability goals.