Universidad de Aveiro invited to Planetiers World Gathering 2024
The Planetiers World Gathering was organized in Aveiro Portugal on 27-29 October 2024 at the Congress Centre of Aveiro.
On October 28, 2024, the WIN-BIG project coordinator was honored to speak as part of the Oceans & Blue Economy panel at the prestigious Planetiers World Gathering. This session delved into the multifaceted challenges that the world's oceans face, including pervasive pollution, overfishing, and climate change, while also exploring the promising opportunities for fostering sustainable economic growth within the blue economy. The main objective of the discussion was to shed light on the significant impact climate change has on ocean ecosystems and the related economic activities that depend on them.
The panel featured an engaging dialogue on the pressing need for sustainability, justice, and inclusivity in the management of marine resources. During the session, the WIN-BIG project was introduced, showcasing the pivotal work undertaken so far to address ocean-related and blue economy issues. The project coordinator took the opportunity to advocate for broader participation in ongoing initiatives, promoting the WIN-BIG survey aimed at advancing the knowledge on gender issues across the European Union’s (EU’s) ocean (blue) economy and bring forward new ideas and solutions to build on women’s current professional skills and potential. Attendees were encouraged to contribute by completing the survey to aid in shaping more informed, inclusive strategies for ocean sustainability.
The Planetiers World Gathering, as outlined on its official website, was conceived with a clear mission: to bring together diverse stakeholders—ranging from innovative companies and governmental organizations to civil society leaders and policy makers—to unite their efforts in finding actionable solutions to global sustainability challenges. The core ethos of the event is centered on EDUCATION, EMPOWERMENT, and an ENTREPRENEURIAL MINDSET. These three drivers are seen as the essential forces capable of propelling the global economy and society towards more inclusive, regenerative, and sustainable models. The belief is that through dedicated education and heightened awareness, every individual can be inspired to take on the role of a "PLANETIER"—a proactive agent of change.
As the leading international event for sustainable innovation, the Planetiers World Gathering serves as a powerful platform where changemakers from around the globe converge to exchange knowledge and showcase breakthrough solutions. This gathering elevates the visibility of emerging talents, forward-thinking entrepreneurs, pioneering companies, sustainable city initiatives, and impactful projects, all aligned with advancing the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
Since its inaugural event in 2020, the Planetiers World Gathering has successfully fostered meaningful connections between innovators, entrepreneurs, and influential stakeholders, including investors, media representatives, and potential partners from both public and private sectors. These connections are designed to accelerate the development and scalability of transformative solutions that address pressing environmental and societal challenges.
