Ministers overseeing environmental, energy, and sustainability portfolios from over 10 countries, along with 30 chief sustainability officers from leading global companies, convened to envision the future of international efforts to achieve the 2045 Global Development Goals. Discussions centered on shaping the future of the clean energy sector and enhancing it through advanced technology and artificial intelligence.
This took place during a session titled "XDGS 2045: A Quantum Leap toward Inclusive Global Energy" organised by the UAE’s National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as part of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2025. The event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, runs from January 12 to 18.
Leadership Perspectives
His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, emphasised: "Focusing on shaping and developing the clean and renewable energy sector using advanced technology and artificial intelligence is a critical step toward envisioning the future of sustainable development. Our wise leadership believes in the power of innovation and technology to drive transformative change toward achieving sustainable development goals."
He added: "We are committed to providing practical, implementable solutions that support the sustainable development agenda beyond 2030, aiming for 2045. I invite everyone to work together and think innovatively to enhance people’s wellbeing, protect our planet, and ensure a sustainable future for upcoming generations."
His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, who moderated the session, underscored the importance of expanding global dialogue to enhance international partnerships in designing future sustainable development pathways. He stated: "Accelerating the achievement of sustainable development goals requires strengthening cooperation and fostering a proactive understanding across various fields. The renewable and clean energy sector is a cornerstone of sustainability and a driver of wellbeing improvements for future generations."
He also noted that the session's outcomes will form a central part of the third report on Sustainable Development Goals 2045, set to be launched at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) 2025. This report will issue an open invitation to the international community to design the new global development agenda and the SDGs for 2045.
Dr. Nawal Al Hosany, Permanent Representative of the UAE to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), stated in her opening remarks: "The UAE reaffirms its unwavering commitment to supporting the transition to a sustainable and inclusive energy future by leveraging innovation and advanced technology to ensure clean and renewable energy for all. Our wise leadership believes in the importance of international cooperation and strategic partnerships to accelerate the global energy transition, positioning the UAE as a global model for innovation and sustainability."
Global Participation
The session saw the participation of 30 ministers and chief sustainability officers from leading global companies, including: Dr. Mahmoud Mohieldin, UN Special Envoy on Financing the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda; Lorenzo Tacchella, Private Partnerships Manager - GCC countries at World Food Programme; Ibrahim Al-Zu'bi, Chief Sustainability & ESG Officer at ADNOC Group; Sarah Shaw, Director of the National Corporate Social Responsibility Fund – Majra.
The session also saw the participation of prominent global companies and international organisations such as ADNOC, IKEA, DP World, First Abu Dhabi Bank, the United Nations, and the World Food Programme.
The Future of Clean and Renewable Energy by 2045
The session focused on the future of energy within Goal 7 of the SGDs on “Affordable and Clean Energy”. Discussions revolved around envisioning the future of clean energy, the role of artificial intelligence, and the integration of clean energy into the future energy mix. Participants explored innovative technologies for renewable energy production and emphasised the need to enhance investments in renewable energy projects, contributing to transformative positive changes in the clean energy sector.
They also examined strategies for building and expanding global partnerships to support clean energy initiatives, including solar, wind, tidal energy, and green hydrogen.
Vision for 2045
The concept of Sustainable Development Goals 2045 reflects a global consensus on the importance of developing a new framework building on the outcomes of the 2030 Agenda. This initiative supports efforts to ensure global prosperity and inclusive development. The idea emerged during the SDGs in Action Forum at the World Governments Summit 2023, aiming to chart the post-2030 future.
The session built on the outcomes of the Sustainable Development Goals 2045 Report, launched by the National Committee on SDGs during the HLPF on Sustainable Development held in New York in July of 2024. The report provides a comprehensive roadmap and serves as a foundation for a new global agenda toward a sustainable future for all.
The Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025 represents a global initiative launched by the UAE over 15 years ago to accelerate the achievement of sustainable development goals. Hosted by Masdar, the leading energy company, the event carries the theme: "The Nexus of Next. Supercharging Sustainable Progress." It aims to accelerate sustainable development efforts, drive economic, social, and environmental progress, and foster dialogue among decision-makers, business leaders, and the community to chart pathways toward a sustainable economy and inclusive growth.
