A change strategist inspiring half a million people globally, a national net-zero leader deeply versed in decarbonisation, and a visionary founder merging maggots with biotechnology – what connects them? They’re among the stellar lineup of speakers at the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit, set to unfold on Thursday, May 23rd, at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC).
Ground-breaking one-day event
This groundbreaking one-day event marks a first for the Greater Whitsunday region, featuring 30 influential voices driving discussions within the decarbonisation movement.
Highlighting the impressive roster of speakers, Ms Kylie Porter, CEO of the Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3), emphasised the program’s curation to showcase experts who not only possess extensive knowledge but also exude a zeal to collaborate with local businesses, igniting their decarbonisation journey.
“Our region stands uniquely positioned globally, and these speakers are chosen for their expertise and eagerness to work with local enterprises,” Ms Porter stated. “This summit presents an unparalleled opportunity for our region to both learn from and engage with these global leaders.”
Ms Porter underscored that the summit targets small and medium business owners and operators primed to advance on their decarbonisation path. “Our region’s businesses will gain insights into diverse solutions and strategies for a low-carbon future,” she added.
Mr Steven Boxall, CEO of the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE), echoed the sentiment, emphasising the calibre of keynote speakers as a testament to the urgency and significance of the decarbonisation challenge.
“By convening these world-class experts, we aim to foster collaboration and innovation propelling our industries toward a cleaner, more sustainable future,” Mr. Boxall remarked.
Keynote addresses with industry heavyweights
The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit commences at 8:30 am with four keynote addresses scheduled throughout the day, featuring renowned figures:
Change strategist Michael McQueen, whose clientele includes global giants like Google and Toyota, will share insights into navigating towards a decarbonised world with local actions yielding global impacts.
Cle-Anne Gabriel, Founder and Managing Director of ThinkZero, brings her expertise as a sustainable development specialist to guide businesses in their net-zero journeys, drawing from successful case studies.
Graham Winkelman, Vice President of Climate at BHP, will shed light on governmental roles and long-term policy frameworks essential for transitioning towards a lower-emission economy.
Olympia Yarger, Founder of Goterra, will passionately illustrate innovative waste management solutions through biotechnology and eco-friendly infrastructure design, meeting the growing demand for sustainability.
The summit’s agenda includes morning and afternoon sessions, panel discussions, and breakout streams focusing on various aspects of decarbonisation, encompassing people, industry, environment, and opportunities.
The afternoon session features additional keynotes, a regional panel, and roundtable discussions, offering further inspiration and practical guidance for local businesses navigating a rapidly evolving landscape.
The summit will also host leading decarbonisation experts and industry leaders from organisations like QLD Hydro, Clean Energy Council, Main Sequence, Sedgman, Cauldron, and the Sustainable Minerals Institute.
The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit concludes with networking drinks at 4:30 pm.
Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit
When: Thursday 23 May 2024, 8:00am – 4:30pm
Where: Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC). 258 Alfred St, Mackay QLD 4740, Australia
For more information and tickets, visit the Decarbonisation Accelerated website.
The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit is a collaborative initiative between the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) and the Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3).
