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16|06|26, Hofburg Vienna

WE ARE UNSTOPPABLE

When we founded the AUSTRIAN WORLD SUMMIT in 2017, the world seemed defined by rules-based politics, with broad consensus on the necessity of multilateral institutions. The Climate Convention, adopted in 1992 alongside the Convention on Biological Diversity by 193 states, the Kyoto Protocol, and ultimately the historic Paris Agreement, were widely celebrated as the foundation for phasing out the fossil-fuel era.

Many people are now asking us whether environmental and climate protection still make sense, given the uncertain geopolitical situation and the policies of the US administration. Our answer now and at this year’s 10th AUSTRIAN WORLD SUMMIT is clear and unequivocal: yes, more than ever!

In reality, so much positive and innovative progress is happening that often goes unnoticed amid the many negative headlines.

The expansion of renewable energy continues unabated, and the desire for independence from fossil fuel suppliers has motivated many countries to become more resilient through locally produced renewable energy.

All surveys show that young people, in particular, remain not only interested in these issues but are actively committed to working for a healthy planet. More electric vehicles are being purchased than ever before, and public transport is being used more frequently. Devices are becoming increasingly energy-efficient, and the circular economy is steadily becoming a practical reality – and the list goes on.

The environmental sector now attracts substantial investment and employs a large number of people. Scaling everything back to zero – as was sometimes done during economic downturns and political crises 30 years ago – is no longer feasible. Doing so would severely damage the broader economy, as environmental and climate protection now have significant economic importance.

We have become an integral part of both the economy and society: WE ARE UNSTOPPABLE!

Summit Program

Subject to change