IBM Named Key Partner for COP28: Driving Global Climate Action

IBM has announced its role as an Associate Pathway Partner for the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28). Scheduled to be hosted by the COP28 UAE Presidency in Dubai from November 30 to December 12, this conference stands as a critical juncture for global leaders, policymakers, scientists, and corporations to unite in their efforts to combat climate change and collectively forge a more sustainable future.

During the event, IBM will be highlighting the transformative potential of technology and consulting services in accelerating progress towards sustainability objectives. By consolidating data and integrating artificial intelligence into core operations, IBM aims to equip organizations with the necessary tools to reduce costs, minimize waste and emissions, transition to clean energy sources, enhance productivity, and establish sustainable supply chains and responsible computing practices. Furthermore, IBM will assist organizations in quantifying their environmental footprint, meeting regulatory obligations, aligning with public expectations, and operationalizing their data to foster efficient and sustainable enterprises, all while safeguarding profitability.

Jonathan Adashek, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications at IBM, emphasized, “Sustainability is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, and technology and collaborations will be pivotal in driving future advancements. AI innovations like IBM’s watsonx are already available to assist organizations in harnessing AI for the promotion of sustainability and efficiency. In Dubai, IBM will support the COP28 UAE Presidency’s agenda by engaging with participants to continue developing solutions that propel us towards a low-carbon future.”

Ambassador Majid, Director-General and Special Representative of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), expressed optimism about the extensive support received from sponsors worldwide, underscoring the significance of diverse stakeholders in achieving COP28’s objectives. He noted that organizations from all sectors of society play a crucial role in climate action and commended the enthusiasm displayed by sponsors who are committed to uniting, acting, and delivering results to keep the 1.5°C target within reach.

IBM’s involvement in COP28 is an extension of its extensive history of environmental initiatives, research, and advocacy. The company issued its inaugural environmental policy over five decades ago in 1971 and officially outlined its stance on climate change in 2007. IBM has also played a pivotal role as a founding member of the United Nations Environment Programme’s Science-Policy-Business Forum on the Environment and the Climate Leadership Council. Additionally, IBM actively supports communities vulnerable to climate change and other environmental challenges through initiatives such as the IBM Sustainability Accelerator.

This year’s U.N. Climate Change Conference location in Dubai provides a backdrop to IBM’s strong presence in the Middle East region. Here, IBM’s sustainability offerings are contributing significantly to helping businesses and governments enhance efficiency and progress towards their sustainability objectives. For instance, IBM collaborates with the Mohammed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) through a joint AI Center of Excellence, aimed at advancing the adoption of AI technology, informing the deployment of clean and renewable energy solutions, and promoting sustainability through carbon-neutral solutions.