KAUST representatives participated in COP27 in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, engaging in panels, presentations, and exhibits. They promoted KAUST's projects and explored collaborations in areas like carbon capture, food security, and water conservation. KAUST experts engaged with global stakeholders to discuss climate action goals and the need for public-private collaboration. Why it matters: This participation highlights KAUST's commitment to sustainability research and its role in addressing global climate challenges through technological innovation and international partnerships.
KAUST faculty members participated in the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, advocating for science-based environmental standards. Discussions included limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius and building the financial and human capital to achieve this goal. KAUST initiatives in energy, water, food, climate, livability and AI were presented. Why it matters: KAUST's involvement in COP26 highlights the university's commitment to addressing global climate challenges and showcases the role of Saudi research in international environmental policy.
KAUST researchers participated in COP28 in Dubai, showcasing environmental research from sustainable construction to coral restoration. Professor William Roberts presented cryogenic carbon capture, while Professor Hussein Hoteit demonstrated carbon dioxide removal and underground hydrogen storage. A KAUST spinout, ClimateCrete™, launched technology to make local sand suitable for concrete, reducing carbon emissions by up to 60%. Why it matters: KAUST's presence at COP28 highlights the institution's role in driving regional climate solutions and fostering public-private partnerships for environmental sustainability.
KAUST participated in the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in Riyadh, showcasing its sustainability innovations. KAUST and the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) announced the launch of a new international water-research center to be headquartered at KAUST. KAUST also entered a SAR100 million agreement with the National Center for Palm and Dates (NCPD) for date-palm sector research. Why it matters: These initiatives highlight KAUST's commitment to advancing Saudi Arabia’s data-driven “green” efforts beyond 2030 and addressing critical environmental issues.
A multidisciplinary team from KAUST attended the COP22 conference. Boon Ooi, a professor of electrical engineering at KAUST, addressed attendees. The KAUST team's participation highlights the university's engagement in international discussions on science and technology.