Join us at the opening session of Day 2 of the Global Sustainable Island Summit as Fernando Clavijo Batlle, President of the Canary Islands takes to the stage to discuss the importance of collaboration to implement workable sustainable solutions for island communities around the world.

This session explores how the travel industry stands uniquely positioned to drive widespread adoption of sustainable practices and rapidly foster innovation on a global scale. By showcasing exemplary initiatives and illustrating the possibilities of a more sustainable world, travel serves as a powerful vehicle for catalyzing change. The resources in the tourism industry can be redirected to enable the green transition. From solar-powered resorts to electric transportation, a shift to sustainability has now reached a tipping point that will lead to positive economic opportunities for destinations worldwide. Join us as we explore the symbiotic relationship between travel, innovation, and sustainability, and how they collectively contribute to the advancement of a brighter future for generations to come.

This session will delve into the synergistic relationship between the blue economy, islands, and the pursuit of sustainable oceans. Island communities play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our marine environments. Against the backdrop of increasing pressures such as overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change, it is imperative to explore how the principles of the blue economy can be harnessed to foster resilience and prosperity within island nations.

Reflecting on his tenure as the Prime Minister of Aruba, Mike Eman discusses the challenges, opportunities, and solutions that defined his period in office. Join us in the conversation that will highlight the workings behind high-level policymaking, and how island leaders tackle key issues in their communities.

This session will delve into the critical role of policy and regulations in enabling and accelerating the transition to renewable energy on islands, while sharing best practices for creating supportive frameworks that attract investment and facilitate the development of renewable energy projects.

A sustainable future is only possible when all voices are heard and considered in development projects. Implementing new policies, technologies, and systems must come with the endorsement and buy-in of local communities. This fireside chat will focus on addressing the social and community aspects of transitioning to renewable energy on islands, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and encouraging active participation in decision-making processes related to renewable energy development.

This session will explore the intersection of women’s empowerment, clean tech innovation, and energy sustainability in island contexts. From renewable energy to sustainable transportation, this panel of accomplished women will share their insights, expertise, and stories of success.

This session will explore how islands are implementing innovative climate adaptation solutions to build resilience in the face of these challenges.Climate adaptation is essential for islands to cope with the impacts of climate change and safeguard their sustainable development. This session will showcase examples of innovative adaptation strategies being deployed across different island regions, highlighting their effectiveness, scalability, and replicability.

The Bridge Effect: Critical Reflections in the Age of Technological Solutionism co-edited by Laurie Brinklow and Andrew Jennings, features essays about bridged islands―both physical and metaphorical―from around the globe. From the economic effects resulting from these links to how islanders feel about themselves once they’ve been joined to a mainland or another island, the book explores if and how “islandness”―and, ultimately, island identity―has changed on these small islands.

In our closing session we will reflect on the collective wisdom shared during the Summit, highlighting how from resilient agricultural practices and eco-tourism renaissance to renewable energy revolutions and waste reduction initiatives, islands have proven that a harmonious future is not only possible but actively underway.