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The event commenced by a keynote speech delivered by HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Chairman of WGEO. In his speech, HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer said: “It is my pleasure to welcome you to this event, just a few months after the global launch of the World Green Economy Organisation (WGEO). This great initiative comes under the wise vision of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE as it was launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai during the third World Green Economy Summit (WGES) in Dubai on 5 October 2016, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

“The UAE joined the organisation as its first member during the 22nd session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 22) which was held in Marrakesh, Morocco, in November 2016. This reflects the diligent efforts of the UAE to support the United NationsSustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030 and the Paris Climate Agreement. The organisation plays a pivotal role in limiting climate change as well as finding innovative solutions to the challenges related to sustainable energy, water and the environment in general,” continued HE Al Tayer.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer underscored the vision of WGEO in his speech: “WGEO through its seven platforms aims to develop innovative solutions to climate change, as well as other challenges facing the environment and society. This initiative is in line with global agendas and the UAE’s, ‘A Green Economy for Sustainable Development’ initiative which was launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It's not a secret the organisation's essential role is to reduce the investment risks in the green economy sector, and support international cooperation in innovation and funding.”

The World Green Economy Organisation is founded on seven platforms, namely, Countries, Sustainable Cities Sector, Private Sector, Academic Sector, Organisations & Civil Society, Youth Sector and Financial Sector.

“Today we are proud to launch our ‘Private Sector Platform’, which is the first initiative under the World Green Economy Organisation, in alignment with its first pillar,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer.

“The platform we are launching today aims to help WGEO to take on a frontline role by establishing partnerships as well as enabling dialogue and knowledge exchange among countries, public and private sectors, United Nations Agencies, financial institutions and civil organisations, to accelerate transition to green economy,” HE Al Tayer added.

“The role of the private sector in this transition is of crucial importance in establishing a strong foundation for a healthy and diversified economy. WGEO aims to catalyse the private sector towards a greener economy that achieves sustainable development,” HE Al Tayer added.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer also highlighted the importance of the green economy and its expected role through the newly launched platform: “This new platform will help forge world-class partnerships, helping us build capacity and develop key opportunities for partnerships between private and public sectors across the region and internationally.”

“Today, we give great importance to enhance our societies in terms of sustainability and equality. Leaders of the world are working to launch programmes targeting various segments of their societies to raise awareness on the importance of energy conservation and green initiatives which will help all nations and people,” he added.

“The development of policies and programmes provides the necessary political direction and support, creates the right conditions and sets the stage to transition into a green economy. That being said, the private sector must now strive to transform green credentials into a global marketplace for trade and investment. The mobilizing of private funds furthermore represents a key to unlocking green growth and scaling up green investment which will help meet global climate and environmental goals,” HE Al Tayer added.

“The ‘Private Sector Platform’ will therefore create pathways to green development by facilitating the adoption of green innovative technologies, products and services on a global equilibrium. The private sector is increasingly seeing the opportunities that come along with 'green growth' and this Platform will provide the prerequisite channel for a vibrant private sector engagement,” HE Al Tayer added.

“The focus on adopting a green lifestyle is going to be a key aspect of the new platform. We are determined to exceed the level of developing innovative important initiatives; we want to make sure these initiatives are applicable in everyday life so that future generations can benefit from our actions today. We also need to focus on opportunities to develop joints projects internationally,” emphasized HE Al Tayer.

“Like many of you here today, we believe in the collaborative process. If we are committed to accelerating innovation that will drive the implementation of ‘The Sustainable Development Goals’, an initiative adopted by world leaders in September 2015 and implemented at the start of 2016 with more than 150 countries pledging to mobilise efforts to end all forms of poverty, fight inequalities, and tackle climate change, then we have to work in co-operation within this Private Sector Platform with dedication and determination,” said Al Tayer.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer concluded his speech by acknowledging Dubai’s drive and efforts towards being an international capital for green economy: “WGEO appreciates Dubai's endeavors to be the global capital of green economy. We believe Dubai’s relentless efforts will help limit the effects of climate change, as well as boost measures towards finding innovative solutions for the sustainable energy and water challenges, and other environmental challenges, which fall under the key responsibilities of this organisation. Being based in Dubai, WGEO is counting on Dubai’s role as a commercial bridge between the East and West.”

Thanks to its world-class standards in advanced infrastructure, finance, partnerships and aviation, Dubai has succeeded in attracting the best international brands and outstanding companies from all over the world. The  Emirate is the key connecting point for global green economy.

Subsequent to HE speech, the attendees had an opportunity to view a video that showcased information about WGEO and its role. This was followed by an influential speech by HE Helen Clark, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) who appreciated the UAE’s leadership: “It is an honour to be present here today to mark the launch of the ‘Private Sector Platform’ of WGEO. This event comes at an opportune moment as we meet to reconfirm commitments to a green and sustainable economy at the start of a New Year.”

“Taking this as an opportunity, I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for moving forward the green economy and climate change agendas and promoting the role of UAE as a global partner in sustainable development,” HE Clark said.

HE Clark explained UNDP’s role in supporting WGEO in her speech: “UNDP is pleased to be associated with this ground-breaking initiative to support WGEO develop capacities in the coming years leveraging on the support of the private sector.”

The transition to a green economy is a challenging move for any country, a process that calls for multiple approaches and several catalysts. WGEO’s initiative to launch the ‘Private Sector Platform’ today reinforces its determination to persevere its green goals.

“The launch of the ‘Private Sector Platform’, which is the first initiative under WGEO, is shaped by the organisation’s clear thinking and resilient policy-making capabilities. It will further enhance the private sector position as a global role model for green initiatives,” she added.