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Opening session
26 October 2022 @ 9:30 - 11:30

OPENING SESSION
Presentation of the 1st GTI Observatory Report: technology, policy and finance for the sustainability of islands. Debate with islands, scientific and financial institutions.
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Abstract
The GTI eConvention is the global event dedicated to the self-sufficiency and sustainability of islands worldwide. For 8 editions, it has confirmed as an opportunity for islands stakeholders such as governments, utilities, innovative solution providers, academia and others to connect and share their experiences through a digital platform, match island needs and sustainable solutions, and face common challenges building consortia for national, regional and international tenders.
Last year’s edition drew on the lessons learned by the GTI Observatory and, in particular, on how global policy and finance need to sit at the same table with sustainable technology and with joint efforts become drivers for islands’ sustainable growth and unlock their potential as laboratories for innovation. In the opening of the new edition of the GTI eConvention, the GTI Observatory will present its first Report, culmination of its work across the sectors of the island circular economy.
Most technological solutions are replicable in many islands worldwide, while policy frameworks and financing mechanisms are often specific to regions. Thus, as a new feature, the 9th edition will have a regional focus to analyse the main challenges in 4 macro areas with the involvement of local partners.
The 4 regional workshops will be: renewables and regulatory frameworks in the EU and Atlantic Ocean, water cycle in the Caribbean, sustainable tourism in the Indian Ocean, and decarbonization in the Asia-Pacific region.
The conclusions and the potential solutions identified during the event, will concur to inform the final position paper produced by GTI to bring a stronger islands’ voice at COP27 raising attention around the most relevant themes.
Agenda (CEST Time)
09.00 Networking & Expo
09.30 Introduction & Moderation
- Gianni Chianetta – Director & Founder, GTI
- Francesco Luise – GTI Observatory Technical Coordinator
Presentation of the 1st GTI Observatory Report: an overview of the most innovative solutions for the sustainability of the islands.
09.55 Round table: discussion on the main outcomes of the report.
Point of view from the islands
- Sainivalati S. Navoti – Chief of SIDS Unit, Division for Sustainable Development Goals United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA)
- Kate Brown – Executive Director, Global Island Partnership (GLISPA)
- Maxime Prodromides – President, The Small Islands Organization (SMILO)
10.30 Point of view from scientific institutions
- Amjad Abdulla – Head of Partnership at the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)
- Amani Alfarra –Water officer at FAO in the Land and Water Division
- Ben Backwell – CEO, Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC)
- Julia Souder – Executive Director, Long Duration Energy Storage Council (LDES)
11.05 Point of view from financial and other international institutions
- Edita Dranseikaite – Responsible for coordination of the Clean Energy for the EU Islands Initiative in the Directorate General for Energy, European Commission
- Joseph Borg – President of INSULEUR (the Insular Chambers of Commerce and Industry of the European Union)
- George Kremlis – President of Circle the Med Forum/ Honorary Director – European Commission, in charge for DGENV of circular economy and islands
11.40 Wrap up and conclusions
11.45 End of the workshop