The Qatar Science and & Technology Park (QSTP) recently hosted a new round of its flagship TECHtalks events series at the General Electric Advanced Technology Centre, focusing on the topic of sustainability.
A panel of distinguished experts explored the advancement and regional application of technologies to address environmental challenges, in light of the approaching global COP18 event on climate change, to be held in Doha later this month.
For more than five years now, the TECHtalks series has been opening windows of opportunity to explore the latest trends in technology development in four themed areas: energy, environment, health sciences and information and communication technology (ICT).
Each event starts with an expert presentation given by a guest speaker, who introduces the audience to the latest developments within a specific topic.
The guest speaker at the latest TECHtalks event was Dr Patrick Linke, chief engineer of Qatar National Food Security Programme (QNFSP). He spoke about QNFSP initiatives, particularly in developing models for sustainable and environmentally-friendly agriculture in arid regions.
The panel discussion included participants from the private and public sectors, and civil society, tackling the topic from diverse aspects.
Dr Alex Amato, head of sustainability at Qatar Foundation’s Green Building Council, spoke of the principles and best practices in green building and their potential applications in the region.
Wael Hmaidan, director at Climate Action Network – International, shared his experiences on the international and regional co-ordination of non-governmental organizations and their effectiveness in tackling the challenge of climate change.
Chris Schroeder, head of Corporate Social Responsibility – Environment and & Fuel Projects at Qatar Airways, discussed the potential for rationalizing fuel usage in the aviation industry, including the implementation of fuels that come from renewable resources.
QSTP managing director Hamad al-Kuwari said: “It is encouraging to see that topics of environment, sustainability and climate change are being openly discussed and that effective solutions are being sought and implemented.
Gulf Times
20 November
