Abu Dhabi leading by shining example at World Future Energy Summit

His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales made a virtual appearance on stage at the opening of the first World Future Energy Summit (WFES08).

It was the first time he’d appeared as a hologram, in his video message for the conference, before handing over to his brother, HRH The Duke of York.

The Duke, Prince Andrew, said in his role as the UK’s Special Representative for International Trade and Investment that: ‘The summit provides a fantastic opportunity for business and science to come together to provide long-lasting solutions to future energy challenges.’

He continued: ‘I am clear that industry worldwide, and UK industry in particular, will play a vital part in meeting global goals to reduce emissions and achieve sustainability of energy in the long term.’

The UK has a dedicated pavilion at the international exhibition, which is expected to attract five thousand global visitors over the course of the conference.

The summit will focus on sustainable future energies, technologies and architecture and hopes that participants will inspire each other in making sustainable decisions.

Host, Masdar, is leading by example with its model to make Abu Dhabi the world’s first zero carbon, zero waste, car free city, which impressed President Bush last week.

President Olafur Ragner Grimsson of Iceland, also made an opening speech in which he put the likes of the US and the UK to shame, when explaining how: ‘My country transformed its energy systems from being over 80 per cent dependent on coal and oil into having all of its electricity and heating consumption produced by clean energy.’

WFES08 is the first post-Bali opportunity for country representatives to show they are serious about tackling climate change. With Abu Dhabi pledging an initial US $15 billion to its zero carbon project, its demonstrating a clear commitment to doing something about the ecological footprint created by its economic development and success. It shows that it is possible to balance the two things - a message that all developed countries should take on board.

Masdar’s CEO, Dr. Sultan al Jaber, believes: ‘The world needs a portfolio of Solutions,’ which the summit aims to provide.