The story of Day 2 at Davos 2022
A session in progress on Day 2 at Davos 2022 Image: World Economic Forum/ Valeriano
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- The environment was a key topic today at Davos 2022.
- In three special addresses, leaders stressed the need for unity following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
- Business leaders also gave their thoughts on the future of work, reaching net-zero and ESG metrics.
That brings a close to Day 2 at Davos 2022. The environment has featured high on the agenda today, but we've also heard from global leaders on Ukraine, geopolitics, travel and tourism and future pandemics.
Geopolitics
The Russian invasion of Ukraine was a theme of our special addresses. Pedro Sánchez, Ursula von der Leyen and Jens Stoltenberg all called for unity. José Manuel Albares Bueno, Spain's Minister of Foreign Affairs, described support for Ukraine as "an alliance of democracy that is NATO" and warned of the impact of grain blockades.
Environment
A high-level panel of climate leaders, including US and Chinese Special Envoys John Kerry and Xie Zhenhua, joined World Economic Forum president Børge Brende for a discussion on climate change. John Kerry told Davos 2022 that with a bit more effort we can limit global warming - but our Safeguarding Our Planet and People panel was clear on the challenges that remain.
What about the Mediterranean being the centre of the world's new energy supply? Frans Timmerman thinks so (it'll be green hydrogen, by the way).
In an emotional appeal to world leaders, Elizabeth Wathuti, Founder of the Green Generation Initiative, highlighted that "Over 3 million Kenyans and 20 million Africans are facing extreme hunger due to the effects of climate change."
Better business
Marc Benioff called on a new form of 'environmental capitalism' where all companies commit to be net-zero.
Satya Nadella said leaders need to build their 'caring muscle' in a discussion with Professor Schwab that included a look to the changing culture of work and the need for businesses to "earn their right to continue to do business",
What about the role of ESG? It's time for harmonized standards - starting with governance, says Laura M. Cha.
The UpLink downlow
It was a big day for UpLink - the Forum's open innovation platform at Davos 2022. They released their impact report and announced the winners of their Youth Mental Health Challenge. Check them out in this video:
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