3rd Discussion Climate Risk & Finance – EU Chapter

Climate Risk Management & Climate Finance ICWS European Chapter

February 27th, 2025 At 2:00 PM CET

3rd DISCUSSion of the series

Climate change threatens European energy and water infrastructure, demanding innovative adaptation strategies to secure a low-carbon transition. These strategies include diversifying renewables, grid modernization, and climate-proofing energy production.
However, climate solutions face resistance, especially without consensus among impacted communities.
A tailored, multimodal approach to regional transition is crucial for successful advancement.
Infrastructure resilience to climate impacts on communities must be prioritized. While aiming for a green economy, human well-being must be prioritized above purely economic gains.

Panel One: Climate-resilient infrastructure, projects in Europe & Mediterranean.

Climate change threatens European energy and water infrastructure. Adapting requires diversifying renewables (solar, wind, geothermal), modernizing the grid with smart technologies, and climate-proofing energy facilities. Sustainable water management is essential. Investing in climate-resilient infrastructure is vital across Europe and the Mediterranean. Leveraging renewable energy storage ensures a stable energy supply. Empowering local governments and enhancing the market for clean technologies are crucial for successful adaptation.

Euro coin on stock chart. Financial investment concept. Close up.

Segment 2: Climate resilience finance, challenges and opportunities.

Financing Europe's Green Future requires a multi-pronged approach. Green bonds leverage debt markets to fund green projects, while sustainable banking integrates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into lending and investment decisions. Innovative financing mechanisms are crucial to mobilize private capital for climate solutions. Furthermore, robust risk assessment and insurance frameworks are essential to address climate-related risks and build resilience. These strategies collectively unlock private capital, foster a sustainable financial system, and accelerate Europe's transition to a greener future.

FEATURED SPEAKERS EUROPE

Beate van Loo-Born is the Chief Financial Officer at PI Group. She is a seasoned executive with a global perspective on the financial services industry. She has worked in Europe, Asia, and the US and held leadership roles at renowned organizations like SIX, UBS, and Climate Arc. Her expertise in sustainability, finance, and data has enabled her to drive strategic solutions for large corporations and emerging startups. Her career spans over two decades, showcasing her dedication to the industry and ability to navigate complex challenges.

Beate van Loo-Born

Chief Financial Officer - PI Group

Frédéric de Dinechin joined the Council of Europe Development Bank in 2009. Previously, he worked at the World Bank for ten years, first in Washington DC and then in Panama. He also has experience in the public and private sectors in France and abroad. He holds degrees from the Ecole Polytechnique and is certified in coaching and team building. He speaks French, English, and Spanish.

Frédéric de Dinechin

Senior Policy Advisor Water Environment and Blue Economy Division Union For the Mediterranean

ICWS Series Host

ICWS European Series Moderator

Salima H. Steven holds an agronomy and crop science diploma and is a trilingual event producer, marketer, and communicator with twenty years of experience. Over 50 global events focusing on energy, environment, water, smart cities, and climate change have been organized and produced from small to large in North Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Additionally, Salima has over seven years of experience managing communication for a non-profit association of very large power grid operators (GO15).

Salima Hebbache Steven

EventOne Founder & ICWS Commissioner

Tomas Olejniczak is a Senior Energy Consultant and International Cooperation & Development Program Officer at the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO). Before this role, he was the Chair of the International Energy Agency Solar Heating and Cooling Program (IEA SHC). Olejniczak's work centers on advancing energy diplomacy, capacity building, and international cooperation. He is also deeply involved in developing international hydrogen initiatives and shaping energy policy, regulation, and strategic frameworks.

Climate Risk Management & Climate Finance ICWS European Chapter February 27th, 2025 At 2:00 PM CET