SUAD’s Commitment to Sustainability – The Pledge 

SUAD's dedication to a more sustainable future is clearly articulated in its Pledge to Sustainability, a document meticulously put together by the Sustainability Taskforce. This commitment actively engaged the entire community, inviting and encouraging every member to embrace environmentally conscious practices and contribute to a greener campus. The pledge serves as a guiding principle, reflecting SUAD's proactive approach to environmental responsibility and its ambition to foster a culture of sustainability across its diverse stakeholders. 

World Sustainability Day 2024 

SUAD’s commitment to a greener future was reinforced through a community-wide signing of the Sustainability Pledge, announced on the day by the President of the Sustainability Club. Dr Beatriz Garcia, SUAD’s Sustainability Spokesperson, delivered a speech alongside the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, highlighting the university’s current sustainability initiatives and its ambitious plans for the future. These include new projects focused on waste reduction, enhanced energy efficiency, and increased community engagement in sustainability efforts. 

Check out our recent post to see photos and highlights from the event.

Conference: Climate Ethics at the Crossroads 

The conference explores the evolving landscape of climate change ethics, moving beyond established debates on distributive justice. It focuses on four key areas where fundamental disagreements persist: the shift towards non-anthropocentric ethics in the context of the Anthropocene; the controversies surrounding geoengineering; the economic challenges of carbon taxation and funding allocation; and the political complexities of climate governance, migration, and activism. The discussions also consider how these issues intersect with climate action programmes in the UAE and beyond. Essentially, it examines how climate change ethics now intersects with broader ethical, technological, economic, and political considerations. Learn more about the conference.

Book Talk: Litigating Climate Change in the Global South 

On 25 September 2024, Associate Professor Jolene Lin, Director of the Asia-Pacific Centre for Environmental Law (APCEL) at the National University of Singapore (NUS), presented her new book “Litigating Climate Change in the Global South” published by Oxford University Press in 2024.  This discussion explored how climate litigation is evolving in developing countries, where the impacts of climate change are felt most acutely. Dr. Lin is a globally recognised expert on climate change law. Her other notable works include Climate Change Litigation in the Asia Pacific (Cambridge University Press 2020) and Governing Climate Change: Global Cities and Transnational Lawmaking (Cambridge University Press 2018). 

Conference: Maritime Geopolitical Stakes from the Indian Ocean to the Indo-Pacific from Yesterday to Nowadays 

With the exceptional presence of two former Chiefs of Staff of the French Navy—Admirals Alain Oudot de Dainville and Christophe Prazuck—the conference focused on geopolitical and maritime security issues, from the Indian Ocean to the Indo-Pacific. The geopolitical shift from the Atlantic to the Indo-Pacific since the 1980s, and its strategic importance in relation to emerging regional powers like the UAE and India, as well as China's growing maritime diplomacy through the New Silk Roads, were key areas of focus. The conference aimed to discuss these geopolitical shifts and their significance.  

This event was organised by Professor Derek Elzein on 22 January 2024.

Participation at the 12th Edition of the World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) 

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi proudly participated at WEEC24, leaving an indelible mark with its commitment to sustainability, academic excellence, and global collaboration. WEEC2024 focused on environmental education, which is essential for raising awareness and promoting action on climate change.  SUAD's involvement demonstrates its commitment to addressing climate change through education and research. Learn more about the event.

Nature Namur International Festival 

The Nature Namur International Festival, showcased in this event, brought short films and photography celebrating the beauty and fragility of the natural world. Viewers experienced impactful wildlife narratives and breathtaking landscapes through the festival's selections. Complementing the films was a photography exhibition, highlighting both international talent and the unique perspectives of FLE students capturing the essence of the UAE's diverse wildlife and environment, fostering a deeper connection to nature through visual storytelling. 

Conference: Towards The UN Ocean Conference 2025 Science, Policy & Blue Economy, A Common Ambition for the UAE, France, and Costa Rica 

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Ocean Institute organised its first international Ocean Conference, "Towards the UN Ocean Conference 2025, Science, Policy & Blue Economy, A Common Ambition for the UAE, France, and Costa Rica." The conference, held at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, gave the floor to major international public and private actors, researchers, and industry leaders to debate and raise awareness about Ocean Research, Ecosystems & Preservation, Coastal Cities & Blue Economy. The event focused on ocean research and preservation, the blue economy, and international collaboration, all in preparation for the UN Ocean Conference 2025. 

To learn more about the conference.

Climate Fresk Training to New Students During Orientation Week 

During new students’ orientation week, SUAD conducted Climate Fresk Training as part of a comprehensive sustainability initiative designed to prepare the students for active participation in global environmental discussions. It also raised awareness of sustainability issues and empowered students with the knowledge and tools necessary to combat climate change. 

Green Activities During Orientation Week 

Engaging green activities such as recycling and urban farming were introduced to students, to raise awareness about sustainability practices and encourage students to adopt environmentally friendly habits from the onset of their academic journey.

The recycling activity provided students with hands-on experience in sorting materials and understanding the importance of waste reduction. Through interactive demonstrations, they learned how proper recycling can minimise environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable campus. 

Additionally, the urban farming activity allowed students to explore the concept of growing plants in urban settings. They participated in workshops that teach the basics of urban gardening, including soil preparation, planting, and maintenance.  

Community Clean up Activity 

A great opportunity to engage with nature while actively protecting the coastal environment. Students gathered to clean up a designated beach area, removing debris and litter to help restore its natural beauty and health. 

This eco-adventure not only enhances our local ecosystem but also promotes environmental awareness and community spirit.  

Sustainability Day Trip 

The Sustainability Day Trip offered students a hands-on experience in understanding the importance of sustainable practices. The trip began with a guided tour of the Emirates Soil Museum, where students discovered the vital role that soil plays in water retention and sustainability in the UAE's unique landscape. Following this, participants explored the Desert Farm, learning about innovative agricultural practices that demonstrate sustainable farming techniques suited for water-scarce environments.  

Additionally, students engaged in water sampling and analysis, collecting and comparing water samples from various sources, including pre- and post-desalination processes and aquaponics, to assess water quality. To conclude the trip, students had the opportunity to build their own mini hydroponics systems, allowing them to take home a practical example of water-efficient farming. This immersive experience aimed to deepen students' understanding of sustainability and inspire them to apply these principles in their daily lives. 

Mangrove Planting and Kayaking Activity  

A great way to experience nature while also helping to protect the environment, students planted mangroves in a designated area where mangroves have been damaged or destroyed.  A nature experience like this was also a great way to restore the mangrove ecosystem and promote students’ environmental awareness. 

Embracing Sustainability Through Art  

A unique event that combined creativity with environmental awareness where students explored how natural elements can be used to create beautiful works of art while promoting sustainability. Participants worked with different soil types from the seven emirates, highlighting the diversity of the environment and its potential as a medium for artistic expression.