A day brimming with thought-provoking discussions, pioneering innovations, and impactful strategies shaping the future of ESG!
Introduction
Day 2 of the World ESG Summit – 5th Edition in Riyadh gathered industry leaders, sustainability experts, and innovators to discuss key topics like ESG digitalization and AI, sustainable development strategies, data standardization, and the future of ESG ratings and governance.
Keynote Highlights
Notable Sessions
– Mohammed Al Ghamdi (NAMA Chemicals) – ESG challenges in Petrochemical, Oil & Gas
– Abdullah A. Alqattan (SRD) – How PMOs can drive sustainability
– Eng. Ahmad Al Anzi (NCVC) – The National Greening Program shaping Saudi’s landscapes
– Salim Baig – Executive Director at EFSIM
– Richa Bansal – Founder at Ecobee
– Sri Aparajithan – CEO & Co-Founder at OMNI Sustainability Technologies
– Wiktor Zdzienicki – Portfolio Lead at Clouds on Mars
– Adil Serhan Sherief – Sustainability & ESG Consultant at Naqsh Consultancy and Environmental Solutions
Panel Discussion – Climate & Economy
Climate Change vs. Economic Growth
Moderated by Sarah Sadek (Z&CO), the panel featured:
Khloud Alkhalaqi (Red Sea Global)
Naeem Minhas, PhD (Baker Hughes KSA
Javed Akbar (Tasnee)
Key takeaway: Companies can grow while being sustainable!
ESG 2.0 – AI & Digital Transformation
Karsten Samaschke (Sustainical) explored how AI is transforming ESG by streamlining data management, automating compliance and risk analysis, and driving the shift toward AI-powered sustainability.
ESG Ratings – Accuracy & Transparency
Moderated by John Seed (Dar Al Riyadh), the panel discussed measuring ESG performance with experts Mohammed Al-Marri, Professor Mohammad Nurunnabi, Aishah Alsamdani, along with Dr. Nicholas Zinas. They focused on the need for transparency in ESG data, the importance of standardizing reporting frameworks, and how to bridge the gap between regulations and investors’ needs.
ESG XML – Standardizing ESG Data
Prof. Ezz Hatab from ZeeDimension highlighted ESG XML as a game-changer in standardizing ESG disclosures. He discussed how automation enhances data accuracy and transparency, while also ensuring that ESG compliance remains future-proof through data-driven solutions.
Fireside Chat – Youth & Sustainability
In the Youth Panel Discussion, moderated by Nofal Abdulhadi (Marafiq), Dr. Zahra Al-Nasser (Tawuniya) highlighted how young leaders are driving sustainability in the GCC. The conversation covered challenges and opportunities for youth in ESG engagement, along with innovative solutions for sustainable development in the region.
Closing Thoughts
Day 2 highlighted key takeaways: ESG digitalization is crucial, with AI and automation reshaping sustainability strategies. A multi-stakeholder approach is essential for impactful collaboration, while standardization and transparency will drive accountability through frameworks like ESG XML and ratings. Lastly, the next generation is at the forefront, leading the charge for ESG’s future.
Thank You!
That’s a wrap on Day 2 of the World ESG Summit 2025! It was a pivotal moment in advancing ESG strategies across industries. What’s your key takeaway from today? Share your thoughts in the comments!
