Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — UpLink, the World Economic Forum community dedicated to supporting early-stage impact-focused entrepreneurs, has announced the launch of four initiatives aimed at accelerating the transition to a circular carbon economy, addressing the growing demand for clean energy minerals, rejuvenating vital ocean ecosystems, and leveraging quantum computing for sustainability challenges.
Circular Carbon Economy Partnership
In collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Economy and Planning and Ministry of Energy, UpLink unveiled its Circular Carbon Economy Partnership.
This initiative seeks to source and advance cutting-edge carbon reduction solutions globally. The partnership aims to select a cohort of 10-20 early-stage startups to receive support in scaling their impact over the next year.
“The partnership with UpLink will play a key role in stimulating innovation and advancing Circular Carbon Economy technologies by repurposing captured carbon for sustainable use,” said Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Energy, Saudi Arabia.
Regenerative Blue Economy Challenge
The Regenerative Blue Economy Challenge, launched in collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Economy and Planning and WAVE, aims to uncover innovations that protect ocean well-being while promoting sustainability and economic prosperity. The challenge will provide resources and support to selected early-stage startups to preserve marine biodiversity, tackle ocean pollution, and ensure the sustainable use of marine resources.
“We are happy to announce the launch of the Regenerative Blue Economy Challenge to further our support to ocean innovators. Collective action is an imperative for the health and future of the ocean,” said Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud, founder of WAVE.
Sustainable Mining Challenge
In partnership with Prospect Innovation, UpLink introduced the Sustainable Mining Challenge to address the need for key minerals while reducing carbon consumption in the mining sector. Over the next three years, the collaboration aims to support 40-50 innovators and scale up solutions that enhance sustainability in the mining industry.
“The mining industry will continue to play a pivotal role in supplying the materials that will enable a greener future,” stated Vivek Salgaocar, Managing Director and Founder, Prospect Innovation.
Quantum Innovation for the SDGs
UpLink will collaborate with C4IR Saudi Arabia to leverage quantum computing for sustainability challenges, including climate action and economic development. The partnership aims to identify scalable quantum technologies that can accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals in Saudi Arabia.
“This collaboration not only aligns with the Centre’s mission and its recently launched Quantum Economy project but also empowers diverse stakeholders to drive impactful change within their communities,” said Basma AlBuhairan, Managing Director of the C4IR Saudi Arabia.
John Dutton, Head of UpLink, World Economic Forum, emphasized the significance of these initiatives in addressing pressing global challenges: “These initiatives represent a forward-thinking commitment to addressing the immediate challenges of climate change, resource demand, and ocean conservation. UpLink, alongside its partners, is issuing a call to action for stakeholders across the globe to join us in this journey towards ensuring the prosperity of our planet, the wellbeing of local communities, and the economic viability of essential industries.”
The launch of these initiatives marks a significant step towards driving innovation and collaboration to build a more sustainable and equitable future for all.