How can data centers mitigate their resource-intensive operations and grow their capacity as community partners? What opportunities exist to transform infrastructure demands into shared prosperity?

As the AI boom drives the data center industry toward $7 trillion in global investments by 2030, communities continue to wrestle with the dual pressures of resource demands and economic opportunity. This session examines how hyperscalers and data center operators are working to become proactive community partners, exploring promising workforce development initiatives, waste heat recovery projects, and strategies for creating inclusive benefits while identifying bold opportunities for the sector to lead in building a more equitable and climate-resilient future.

How are companies leveraging procurement decisions to drive industrial decarbonization? What supplier data and engagement strategies are reshaping supply chains?

As Scope 3 expectations rise with major frameworks like CSRD and California’s SB 253 taking effect, buyers increasingly need structured supplier emissions data to meet compliance requirements. Discover how leading companies are advancing industrial decarbonization through data-driven procurement, exploring the growing use of carbon pricing in purchasing decisions, collaborative buyer alliances, and supplier data requirements shaping today’s market, while green procurement emerges as one of the most effective policy measures to drive demand for low-emissions cement, concrete and steel.

What’s changing in the Science Based Targets initiative’s (SBTi) approach to Scope 3 target-setting? How will new flexibility mechanisms impact your company’s climate strategy?

The Science Based Targets initiative has proposed significant changes to Scope 3 target-setting, moving away from fixed-percentage requirements to prioritizing the most emission-intensive activities within value chains. Changes include new flexibility mechanisms including limited use of environmental attribute certificates where direct traceability isn’t feasible, separate targets for high-impact sources, and enhanced supplier engagement requirements—come hear what these changes will mean for companies setting SBTi targets going forward.

How can companies turn circularity ambitions into measurable business results? What action can companies take now to gain a competitive edge?

The Global Circularity Protocol launched at COP30 provides the first science-based standard for corporate circular action that aligns with global sustainability reporting frameworks, giving companies a clear path from strategy to execution. Companies that act now can strengthen their supply chains, reduce exposure to volatile markets, and unlock new sources of revenue. Join us to gain practical tools for navigating new frameworks, managing implementation risks, and building the partnerships to gain a competitive edge amid growing resource constraints and regulatory pressure.

How can sustainability practices generate measurable revenue growth and market differentiation? What operational improvements deliver the strongest financial returns?

As sustainability performance increasingly influences business partnerships and market positioning, companies are identifying which environmental and social initiatives drive tangible commercial value. Corporate leaders are prioritizing sustainability projects with clear ROI, while sales and operations teams are leveraging sustainability achievements to win contracts and strengthen market position. Hear how sustainability and finance leaders are quantifying the business case for sustainability investments, translating operational performance into competitive advantage, and building go-to-market strategies around high-impact sustainability practices.

How has the climate tech investment landscape evolved through recent market volatility? What strategies are investors using to identify commercially viable opportunities?

Climate tech has undergone a profound market reset over the past two years, with policy uncertainty emerging as investors’ top concern for 2025–2026, while competition from AI for capital and a focus on energy security have reshaped investment priorities. This session convenes leading climate tech investors to examine the evolution of early-stage climate investing, exploring the emergence of “policy-proof” business models that scale on unit economics, the intersection of AI and climate infrastructure, opportunities in energy security and adaptation, and the shift toward strategic corporate participation.