The event will focus on the UNIDO Climate Change Strategy and its action plan 2025–2029, which is being developed in consultation with Member States to guide UNIDO’s efforts to pursue the Strategy’s vision 2050 of a world without poverty and hunger, where industry drives low-emission economies, improves the living standards and preserves the liveable environment for present and future generations, leaving no one behind.   

The roundtable discussion will bring together high-level representatives from Member States, financial institutions, international organizations, the business sector and civil society to explore the transformative power of industry on the path to sustainability. 

Under the auspices of UNIDO, the LDC Group on Climate Change and the LIFE-AR initiative of the LDC Group on Climate Change we invite you to a dialogue to highlight the strength of collaboration, inclusivity, and partnership. The discussion will highlight 'business unusual' approaches, showcasing the LDC-led progress through LIFE-AR, the achievements and obstacles in realizing the LDC vision, and the advancements in locally driven climate adaptation. Stakeholders – from CSO implementing organizations and across the climate finance spectrum – will reflect on the LDC’s inclusive governance of climate action, emphasizing the importance of participatory methods and sharing insights on fostering gender equity and social inclusion in climate adaptation initiatives. 

As digital infrastructure grows, so does its environmental footprint. This session, led by ITU and UNIDO, will examine both the successes and ongoing challenges in making AI and computing more sustainable. With input from industry leaders, government representatives, and sustainability experts, the discussion will highlight practical examples where AI has reduced energy use and emissions and address gaps such as inconsistent reporting and varying levels of commitment across sectors. ITU’s leadership in digital sustainability and UNIDO’s commitment to green industrial practices provide a foundation for cross-sector dialogue, aimed at guiding organizations toward adopting greener technologies and policies. The session aspires to build momentum for sustainable AI practices that support global environmental goals.

This 30-minute side event at COP29 in Baku will serve as the official launch and invitation for the International Vienna Energy and Climate Forum (IVECF) 2025. The event will showcase the forum's theme, "Catalyzing Climate Capital” and highlight its crucial role in bridging discussions between major global climate and energy events in 2025. 

The event will host the Mission Innovation’s  Net-Zero Industries Award, that recognizes and celebrates outstanding innovations in industrial decarbonisation. It shines a light on the people and projects that are revolutionising energy-intensive industries and driving substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. 

This panel discussion will explore the potential of geoinformation systems (GIS) to address pressing environmental challenges in the Aral Sea region. Experts from various fields, including environmental science, technology, and policy, will discuss the use of drones, satellite imagery, and GIS for monitoring environmental parameters, combating desertification, restoring ecosystems, to mitigate the negative effects of climate change, such as sand and dust storms. The panel will also delve into the application of smart and precision technologies to enhance afforestation efforts and their sustainability. Among other things, the panel will discuss access to high-quality data on soil composition and other relevant parameters to inform effective decision-making and promote sustainable development in the region. 

The COP29 side event, Smart Cities for a Resilient Tomorrow, will explore integrating smart technologies to enhance urban sustainability and resilience. Experts will discuss innovations such as AI, IoT, and smart grids to address challenges like climate change, resource management, and equitable access to services. Key topics include successful case studies, sustainability metrics, and emerging trends in smart urban planning. The side event aims to foster collaboration among city planners, policymakers, and technology providers, offering insights and strategies to promote inclusive, adaptive, and energy-efficient cities. The goal is to create sustainable urban environments that improve residents’ quality of life.

The COP29 side event, “Advancing Gender Equality and Empowering Women and Future Generations for Climate Resilience in Least Developed Countries,” is a collaborative dialogue led by UNIDO and the LDC Group on Climate Change. This session brings together stakeholders to discuss the LDC Group's Gender and Youth Strategy, exploring how it aligns with the UNFCCC’s gender action plan. Panelists will address the challenges and successes in fostering inclusive climate action, promoting gender equity, and empowering youth participation. This event will highlight practical strategies for advancing gender-responsive climate adaptation, enhancing intergenerational equity, and strengthening partnerships for resilient climate solutions in LDCs.