The panel discussion on “A Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Climate Action: Young Practitioners and Their Role in the Technology Transformation” held during NY Climate Week and the Summit of the Future 2024 served as a crucial platform for advancing climate action and sustainability efforts. Took place on September 23, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM EDT at Jay Conference Bryant Park in New York City, this event brought together key stakeholders from various sectors to foster interdisciplinary conversations on pressing environmental issues.

Authors: Ms. Sukanya S Meher, Ms. Shreenithi Lakshmi Narasimhan

Events Overview

Organized by the IEEE New York Young Professionals Climate and Sustainable Initiatives, a Local Group of IEEE Young Professionals (YP) Climate and Sustainability Taskforce (CSTF) in collaboration with IEEE R1/R2 YPs, IEEE PES, and IRENA Youth, the panel discussion was designed to initiate a dialogue on the technological transformations necessary for globally agreed transitions. By convening industry leaders, academic experts, and representatives from international multi-lateral organizations, the event sought to share insights and catalyze collaborative efforts toward addressing sustainability challenges.

The panel featured esteemed speakers from IEEE Regions 1 and 2, including Mr. Bala Prasanna, IEEE R1 Director, and Mr. Chinamy Tompe, representing the Young Professionals perspective. The session was moderated by Dr. Sajith Wijesuriya (Chair, IEEE YP CSTF) and Ms. Sukanya S. Meher (Communications Lead, IEEE YP CSTF and Chair, NY Local Group). Ms. Shreenithi Lakshmi Narasimhan (IEEE YP CSTF member and Vice Chair, NY Local Group) delivered a compelling intervention and call for action during the event, emphasizing the need for immediate action. The event was made possible with support from several IEEE YP CSTF and NY Local Group members, including Ms. Kalyani Matey, Mr. Shaibu Ibrahim, and other IEEE YP CSTF members Mr. Narendra Venkatesan, Ms. Yuhan Zheng, and Dr. Polat Goktas, who supported virtually.

Before the event, Mr. Samuel Stone (R1 YP Coordinator) and Ms. Tory Welsch (R2 YP Coordinator) hosted a R1+2 YP Climate Meetup Lunch at the Irish American in Lower Manhattan. This was a social meetup lunch held alongside the New York Climate Week 2024 event, where young professionals and IEEE members from Region 1 and 2, as well as CSTF members, got together to meet and network.

Outcome

The panel discussion achieved several key objectives while exploring crucial themes in climate action and sustainability. It successfully facilitated interdisciplinary dialogue, shared insights from various sectors on climate targets and sustainability needs, explored collaborative strategies for sustainable development, and empowered young professionals and students to contribute to global climate efforts. The event delved into important themes, including innovations in climate action, where technological advancements for mitigating climate change were explored. It also assessed the role of policy frameworks in driving climate action, highlighted industry initiatives toward carbon neutrality, and recognized the importance of youth in driving transformative change. These objectives and themes collectively provided a comprehensive overview of current challenges and potential solutions in the fight against climate change, emphasizing the need for collaborative and innovative approaches across different sectors and generations.

Additionally, the Meetup Lunch promoted new in-person connections and ongoing relationships between young professionals and higher grade members from across Regions 1 and 2 along with IEEE staff and the YP CSTF.

Participating Entities and Funding

The event featured participation from a diverse range of organizations, including the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), World Meteorological Organization (WMO), International Youth Nuclear Congress (IYNC), Global Renewables Alliance, YOUNGO, SDG 7 Youth Constituency, and Student Energy.

The event organization was funded by MGA Surplus, with support and approval from IEEE Region 1 and Region 2 for climate and sustainability activities. Travel costs for 5 young professional members from Regions 1 and 2 to attend this event were sponsored by the regions. The Meetup Lunch and the financing for CSTF logistics were sponsored by IEEE Young Professionals.

Future Plans

The IEEE Young Professionals Climate and Sustainability Taskforce (YP CSTF) aims to make this an annual event with the support of IEEE Region 1 and 2 and the New York Section. The event will bring together technology, policy, and advocacy perspectives, and will involve interaction between IEEE and external stakeholders. Holding a panel discussion during NY Climate Week 2024 presents a significant opportunity for exchanging knowledge, fostering stakeholder collaboration, and inspiring proactive individuals to work towards global sustainability goals.

In addition, this event acts as a stepping stone towards a flagship event for Regions 1 and 2, a R1+2 Young Professionals Climate Summit which is tentatively planned for Summer 2025. This summit will be a collaborative effort by the R1 and 2 YP Coordinators in conjunction with other YP leaders, the YP CSTF, region leadership, and stakeholders across IEEE and the climate and sustainability sector.