Imagine a world where treated wastewater not only protects our environment but also drives innovation and creates jobs. This vision remains largely untapped, yet it's within our reach!

According to current UN Environment Programme data, only 11% of the world’s treated wastewater is reused. Shockingly, around 50% of untreated wastewater pollutes our rivers, lakes, and oceans.

In Episode 16, recorded at the 2024 World Future Energy Summit, we explore the future of wastewater treatment with two leading experts in the field.

Beyond irrigation and industrial cooling, treated wastewater can recharge groundwater aquifers, be used as a concrete additive in construction, and even produce biogas through waste-to-energy technology.

Treated wastewater reuse is a valuable yet underutilised resource. It offers a circular economy opportunity, creates new revenue streams and jobs, fosters innovation, and advances wastewater management practices.

Our host, Jeffrey Beyer, Founder and Managing Director of Zest Associates, is joined by Alicia Dauth, Senior Associate Consultant – Environment at AESG,
and Dr Chakravarthy Gudipati, Executive Director - Water Technologies at the Technology Innovation Institute, a leading global research centre under the remit of the Abu Dhabi Government’s Advanced Technology Research Council.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the latest technologies transforming wastewater treatment and optimising its usage.

Join us on Future Energy Insights as we tackle the biggest challenges shaping the future of energy, both in the Middle East and around the world.

Powered by World Future Energy Summit, the Future Energy Insights show seeks to address the biggest challenges shaping the future of energy today, both in the Middle East and around the world. Find us on social media at @WFES

Anticipated rampant growth in global demand for green hydrogen presents a major economic opportunity for many countries and is also a progressive zero-carbon journey solution for heavy industry high emitters. On episode 15, we examine both opportunities, looking at which countries are already keen on clean hydrogen and what’s driving strategic decision-making.

Green hydrogen, a clean and scalable energy storage solution, is more than just a zero-emission industrial feedstock. It's a transformative energy source with incredible potential, positioning itself as a beacon of sustainability.

The clean hydrogen market is expected to see exponential future demand growth. McKinsey reports that by 2050, green hydrogen could dominate the global supply mix, with a share of between 50 and 65 percent across scenarios.

While this is contingent upon a significant decline in production costs between 2030 and 2050, it represents a major economic opportunity for GCC nations and other global players.

But for heavy industry high emitters, abundant green hydrogen resources can’t be ignored as a zero-carbon solution and could be one of the most straightforward ways to cut emissions.

In episode 15, recorded at the 2024 World Future Energy Summit, we engage in a thought-provoking discussion with two climate change innovators. We explore the crucial decision of whether to localize or commercialize, delve into the factors driving strategic decision-making for governments, and ponder over what it means for countries in the region and their ambitious regional net-zero goals.

Moderator Jeffrey Beyer, Founder and Managing Director of Zest Associates, is joined by Frank Wouters, Chairman of the MENA Hydrogen Alliance and Dii Desert Energy Advisory Board; and Wietse ter Veld, Clean Hydrogen Expert - Middle East for AtkinsRéalis.

Powered by World Future Energy Summit, the Future Energy Insights show seeks to address the biggest challenges shaping the future of energy today, both in the Middle East and around the world. Find us on social media at @WFES

Women are playing an increasingly prominent role in addressing climate change mitigation and stand at the forefront of efforts to conserve, advocate and innovate. On episode 14 we talk to two high-profile women representing different aspects of the future energy industry to learn more about their inspiration and focus.

Climate change is a global issue that impacts – and involves - all of us, however there is a distinct disparity when it comes to the impact on gender with women especially vulnerable, due to historical roles, responsibilities and cultural norms.

The UN estimates that women represent a staggering 80% of those displaced by climate change yet, globally, they are instrumental in promoting sustainable practices in their households and communities.

While women currently account for just over one-third of the renewable energy workforce, according to IRENA data, global research suggests that female leaders are more likely to support climate action and sustainability. Interestingly, private sector companies with more women on the board more likely to improve overall energy efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and invest in renewable energy.

On episode 14, recorded on location at the 2024 World Future Energy Summit, we chat with two climate change innovators on the frontline of change for key insights into their respective career journeys and the importance of female leadership in this planet-critical sector.

Moderator Jeffrey Beyer, Founder and Managing Director of Zest Associates, is joined by Nada Abubakr, Middle East Lead at global water practice, Ricardo; and Susan Payne, Chief Operations Officer of agri-food tech company, Sustainable Planet.

Powered by World Future Energy Summit, the Future Energy Insights show seeks to address the biggest challenges shaping the future of energy today, both in the Middle East and around the world. Find us on social media at @WFES

Considering the diverse challenges cities face, what innovative strategies can they implement to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the near future?

Future Energy Insights seeks to address the most significant challenges shaping the future of energy today, both in the Middle East and around the world.

Responsible for generating 70% of global emissions, António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, has called the world’s cities ‘critical climate battlegrounds’.

This issue was formally recognised at COP28 with the final agreement highlighting the role of cities and relevant subnational players as partners for action.

From urban planning, sustainable architecture and green building standards to biodiversity preservation, renewable energy adoption and public transportation infrastructure, cities have myriad opportunities to implement climate-positive change.

In episode 13, our moderator Jeffrey Beyer, Founder, and Managing Director of Zest Associates, explores and discusses the initiatives, opportunities – and challenges – facing cities across the region with Jamila El Mir, senior advisor to the UN Climate Change High-Level Champions for COP28; Benjamin Schroeder, Group Chief Communications Officer for UAE-headquartered Al-Futtaim Group; and Ghaith Tibi, Middle East Sustainability Lead for Arup. They discuss and identify key priorities for greenhouse gas emissions reduction as we count down to 2030 and 2050.

Powered by World Future Energy Summit, the Future Energy Insights show seeks to address the biggest challenges shaping the future of energy today, both in the Middle East and around the world. Find us on social media at @WFES

What significant role do small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play in the global journey towards achieving net-zero emissions, particularly in the MENA region?

Globally, small and medium-sized enterprises – SMEs - make up 90% of all businesses and represent more than 50% of employment worldwide. Yet, according to 2023 research by the World Economic Forum and Bain & Company, here, in the MENA region, just 12% of SMEs have set net zero targets with even fewer - 7% - mapping out a transition strategy.

The tide is turning, however.

Through COP28, a new SME Climate Hub MENA initiative has been established to drive climate action in the private sector. In the UAE, the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce recently launched a Net Zero Transition program for SMEs and the broader business sector. And, in Oman, the government is working with small and medium-sized businesses under the auspices of the National Net Zero Programme to showcase opportunities for them to engage in projects that support zero neutrality and carbon emission reduction goals.

These, and other regional programmes are a critically positive step in driving momentum for the implementation of net-zero strategies in the countdown to 2050.

As countries, governments, cities, businesses, communities and individuals, we all have a role to play in the net-zero journey.

On episode 12, our panelists will examine the net-zero transition challenges facing regional SMEs; discuss what level of support is required to accelerate action; and share positive examples to illustrate why small businesses may be our biggest hope for net zero.

Moderator Jeffrey Beyer, Founder, and Managing Director of Zest Associates, is joined remotely by Dr Saeed Alhassan, A Khalifa University Abu Dhabi professor and former director of the Gas Research Center, and founder of Manhat, Lydia Elliott, Deputy Director, Supplier Decarbonisation at the We Mean Business Coalition and Martin Reynolds, CEO and co-founder of UAE headquartered Zero Carbon Ventures.

Powered by World Future Energy Summit, the Future Energy Insights show seeks to address the biggest challenges shaping the future of energy today, both in the Middle East and around the world. Find us on social media at @WFES

What role can renewable energy solutions and agri-tech play in feeding the world and supporting net-zero goals?

The world’s food production systems are responsible for over 25% of global greenhouse gas emissions with agri-food systems consuming around 30% of the world’s energy. The United Nations has said that farming must become more sustainable to address the climate crisis and feed a rapidly rising global population, which is set to grow by a further two billion people by 2050.

From the implementation of renewable energy solutions such as solar arrays for agri-voltaic farming and geothermal greenhouses to the circular benefits of agricultural biogas, farmers and stakeholders across the food production value chain are switching on to change.

Emerging technologies also have a vital role to play, with smart irrigation systems, artificial intelligence, precision agriculture, sensors, and the Internet of Things a sampling of the emerging digital innovations that hold the potential to support long-term food security and mitigate climate change trends.

With a glaring gap between the challenges facing the Global North and the world’s least developed nations, in episode 11, we discuss where should governments and sector stakeholders' priorities be focused, and what needs to be done to ensure that everyone stands to benefit from renewable energy and tech solutions.

Moderator Jeffrey Beyer, Founder, and Managing Director of Zest Associates, is joined by Samantha Kayruz, Strategy & Sustainability Impact Director at Goumbook; Youssef Chehade Co-Founder and Business partner at Ecyclex and ReLoop app; and Stuart Oda Founder of Alesca Life.

Powered by World Future Energy Summit, the Future Energy Insights show seeks to address the biggest challenges shaping the future of energy today, both in the Middle East and around the world. Find us on social media at @WFES

Transport and mobility currently account for 19 per cent of global carbon emissions, according to McKinsey research.

In the air, on the ground, and at sea, the dual challenge in developing and adopting carbon-neutral transport systems is how to keep people and goods moving while accelerating net-zero commitment.

The International Air Transport Association estimates that sustainable aviation fuel could contribute to around 65 per cent of the required emissions reductions needed for the aviation industry to reach net-zero by 2050. In the rail sector, governments are looking at the potential to convert electric-powered stock to use low-carbon traction options such as hydrogen and battery technology.

Drop-in sustainable marine fuels such as biodiesel and hydro-treated vegetable oil have the potential to steer the maritime sector; with smaller vessels suited to battery or hydrogen fuel cell solutions. And, on road networks, biodiesel, biogas and hydrogen are exploratory options for heavy goods vehicle fleets with EVs the way forward for private vehicles.

Supported by an evolving global regulatory backdrop, the journey towards decarbonising transportation solutions is nonetheless facing numerous roadblocks including cost concerns, infrastructure issues, land degradation challenges, increased future grid demand – and allegations of greenwashing.

In Episode 10, we explore the current transportation energy landscape. From sustainable aviation fuel and biodiesel to green hydrogen and electric vehicles; and paint a realistic picture of what needs to be done if we are to go the distance to meet net-zero by 2050.

Moderator Jeffrey Beyer, Founder and Managing Director of Zest Associates, is joined by Maryam Ali AlBalooshi, Environment Manager at the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority and State Lead Negotiator for Aviation Climate Change; Yousif Lootah, CEO, Lootah Biofuels; and Vimbai Midzi. Associate Director, Corporate Affairs and social and environmental impact lead at Careem.

Powered by World Future Energy Summit, the Future Energy Insights show seeks to address the biggest challenges shaping the future of energy today, both in the Middle East and around the world. Find us on social media at @WFES

COP28, which is due to start in a matter of days, represents the most significant accountability moment for climate action, to date. Eight years on from the Paris Agreement, the September-released United Nations Global Stocktake report is the first official assessment of climate action since 2015.

The report has reaffirmed that the world is falling significantly short of the reduction in greenhouse gases required to limit global temperature rises to 1.5 degrees Celsius. As representatives of the 198 official parties gather in Dubai to hopefully set out a collective and credible pathway to accelerate global action for the planet, will reflection on the Global Stocktake findings be a catalyst for decisive action?

On this podcast we explore the hurdles to accelerating national and collective global action and whether world leaders and governments are prepared to commit to more aggressive emissions-reduction plans, refocus renewable energy targets, and provide much-needed climate finance for developing countries.

Moderator Jeffrey Beyer, Founder and Managing Director of Zest Associates, is joined by Katarina Uherova Hasbani, Partner and Global Director of Strategy and Advisory at consultancy, engineering and advisory firm AESG; Vahid Fotuhi, Founder of the Middle East Solar Industry Association (MESIA) and Founder and CEO of global mangrove project developer Blue Forest; and Courtney Fieldman, COP28 Climate Envoy and Founder of SPARK.

Powered by World Future Energy Summit, the Future Energy Insights show seeks to address the biggest challenges shaping the future of energy today, both in the Middle East and around the world. Find us on social media at @WFES