Cisco’s advanced networking technologies are driving Expo City Dubai, the designated venue for the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Anticipating over 70,000 attendees, including global leaders, non-government organizations, and youth groups, Expo City Dubai is harnessing cutting-edge IT infrastructure to support the event while promoting a circular economy.
By reusing more than 95% of existing hardware infrastructure encompassing Cisco’s secure networking, data center, and collaboration technologies initially deployed for Expo 2020 Dubai, Expo City Dubai aims to minimize environmental impact. Additionally, the venue is incorporating new wireless innovations and availing itself of Cisco’s Customer Experience Consultancy Services to cater to the distinctive connectivity needs of the Blue and Green Zone areas at COP28. Participating in Cisco’s Takeback and Reuse Program further underscores Expo City’s commitment to a zero-cost, secure, and sustainable method of returning end-of-use equipment to Cisco, aligning with circular economy principles.
Eman Al Awadhi, Vice President – Network and Cyber Security at Expo City Dubai, expressed pride in the ongoing collaboration with Cisco, emphasizing the city’s role as a model for future urban development. Al Awadhi highlighted Expo City Dubai’s management of the convergence of information technology and operational technologies with sustainable practices to ensure a safe, secure, and connected environment.
Mary de Wysocki, Senior Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer at Cisco, emphasized the company’s historical leadership in digital transformation and its current commitment to addressing global environmental challenges. Acknowledging the importance of forums like COP28 in fostering collaboration for a low-carbon society, de Wysocki commended partners like Expo City Dubai for prioritizing circular business practices.
Reem Asaad, Vice President of Cisco Middle East and Africa, expressed pride in supporting COP28 and the UAE as the host country. As part of their collaboration, Cisco has provided professional and technical services to design, implement, and support Expo City’s network infrastructure, ensuring seamless and secure connectivity for attendees and the host nation.
Asaad emphasized the significance of the announcement as a key milestone in supporting the UAE’s vision for digitization to contribute to sustainability efforts. Cisco, with a longstanding commitment to sustainability, aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain by 2040, aligning with the Science Based Targets initiative’s Corporate Net-Zero Standard. Collaborating with customers and partners, Cisco strives to empower decisions that contribute to a more sustainable future.
