The Office of Sustainability at Ajman University organized an awareness session titled "The Role of Innovation and STEM Education in Net-Zero Transitioning" in collaboration with the United States Mission in the UAE, which was presented by Ms. Julie G. Middleton, Director of the Office of Middle Eastern and African Affairs, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
The session highlighted the role of innovation and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in achieving the transition to a net-zero emissions world, and enhancing the efforts to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The development of innovative technological applications and platforms, help countries address climate challenges and mitigate environmental impacts.
The session also explored the partnership between the UAE and the United States in clean energy investment, emphasizing the importance of adopting clean technology and supporting climate action. This collaborative partnership reflects the success of international cooperation in the field of clean energy, to promote sustainability and provide joint solutions to environmental challenges.
As part of the "Green Government Initiative" (GGI) launched by the United States and Canada in 2021, the session emphasized the pivotal role of STEM fields in developing sustainable technologies and solutions. These technologies and solutions contribute effectively to improving environmental efficiency of government systems globally by developing clean technology for waste management and sustainable energy generation.
At the end of the session, speakers emphasized the importance of keeping pace with rapid advancements in information technology and artificial intelligence in combatting climate change. Moreover, these advancements demonstrate how data analysis can be effectively employed to enhance government efficiency and facilitate government services by creating systems that can monitor the consumption of energy, water, and other resources to reduce depletion and promote sustainability.
Ajman University is committed to supporting the UAE's hosting the upcoming COP28 global conference by organizing a diverse range of workshops and awareness sessions. These initiatives aim to raise awareness among the university community about climate change and sustainability issues. Additionally, the university seeks to empower students, faculty, and staff with a deep understanding of the environmental challenges we face and the crucial role that STEM fields play in addressing them.