Despite growing commitments from both the public and private sectors, the flow of capital into green projects continues to lag behind demand. High investment risks, regulatory hurdles, and structural inefficiencies are slowing progress—particularly in emerging markets.

So, how can we bridge this gap? How do we unlock greater investment, direct funds where they are needed most, and build financial mechanisms that drive long-term, sustainable growth?

In this episode, we explore the barriers to scaling green finance, examine how funding is being allocated, and discuss the strategies needed to ensure equitable access—particularly for the Global South and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Jeffrey Beyer, Founder, and Managing Director of Zest Associates is joined this month by Hanan Bakr Sakr, CEO & founder of Al Ard and Karim Arslan, Executive Director, Green & Sustainable Finance Originator at Natixis Corporate and Investment Banking.

Powered by World Future Energy Summit, the Future Energy Insights show seeks to address the biggest challenges shaping the future of energy today, both in the Middle East and around the world. Find us on social media at @WFES

As urban landscapes continue to evolve, the challenges we face are becoming increasingly complex.

Climate change, population growth, and rapid urbanisation are pushing cities to their limits, necessitating smarter, more adaptive solutions. This is where technology comes into play.

From advanced AI and big data integration to resilient infrastructure and forward-thinking mobility solutions, the potential for transformative change is immense.

In this episode, our team explores the cutting-edge intersection of AI, data systems and urban infrastructure – a convergence that is not only transforming cities but also fundamentally reshaping our approach to sustainable living.

We’ll discuss how these innovations are driving urban resilience. What defines a city that is not only sustainable but also responsive and adaptable to the needs of its inhabitants? How can cognitive buildings, smart infrastructure, and autonomous vehicles collaborate to create more livable and efficient urban environments?

Jeffrey Beyer, Founder, and Managing Director of Zest Associates is joined this month by Sebastien Miller, Public Realm Design Manager at Masdar City and Mohamed Moselhy, Global Smart Cities Director at Honeywell.

Powered by World Future Energy Summit, the Future Energy Insights show seeks to address the biggest challenges shaping the future of energy today, both in the Middle East and around the world. Find us on social media at @WFES

Water security is one of the most pressing challenges in arid regions, where the combination of limited natural water resources and increasing demand places immense pressure on existing systems.

The impacts of climate change, such as prolonged droughts, higher temperatures, and shifting precipitation patterns, exacerbate these challenges, reducing the reliability of traditional water sources. At the same time, rapid urbanisation further strains the infrastructure, as growing populations and expanding cities drive up water consumption, often beyond sustainable levels.

These compounded factors highlight the urgent need for innovative, adaptive, and integrated approaches to water management that address both current vulnerabilities and future uncertainties.

In this episode, we’ll explore how technology is transforming water management, shifting the narrative from scarcity to resilience. From AI-driven leak detection and smart water grids to advanced desalination and stormwater capture systems, we’ll uncover the innovations that are redefining sustainable water security.

Jeffrey Beyer, Founder, and Managing Director of Zest Associates is joined by Dr. Najib Dandachi, CEO at Al Usul and Prof. Fadi Comair, The Cyprus Institute and Senior Expert, Obeid & Partners Law Firm.

Powered by World Future Energy Summit, the Future Energy Insights show seeks to address the biggest challenges shaping the future of energy today, both in the Middle East and around the world. Find us on social media at @WFES