We Choose Earth Tour

In this keynote speech, acclaimed actor, producer and UNHCR Ambassador, Cate Blanchett, known for her global advocacy work, shared her perspective on pressing environmental challenges. As creator and producer of the Audible Original podcast CLIMATE OF CHANGE, alongside clean energy entrepreneur Danny Kennedy, Blanchett delves into personal anecdotes amid the overwhelming "tide of bad news". A passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, Blanchett inspires action in communities and beyond, urging everyone to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future.

Cate Blanchett joined Vera Pinto Pereira, EDP Executive Board Member, in a conversation on environmental challenges and innovative solutions. Together, they assessed collective views on climate action and environment challenges and how these are deeply rooted in social issues. This conversation touched on the relevance of collaboration to achieving sustainability goals while advocating cross-sector dialogue and transformative change to drive impactful innovation.

A tone-setter for a day of discussions on the profound impacts of globalization, urbanization, digitalization, and the energy transition in today's world, renowned economist Kjell A. Nordström explored how these changes, along with crises like climate change, pandemics, and geopolitical conflicts, are compelling industries and policymakers to prioritize the planet, enhance returns, and embrace ethical and responsible practices.

Policymakers, business leaders and global organizations are joining efforts to raise awareness and address climate change while striving for a fair energy transition. They face crucial questions: What are the key elements of climate justice? What solutions can they implement? How can different cultural contexts contribute to the common goal of preserving the planet and humanity? A panel of renowned speakers explored emerging partnerships bringing together the public sector, private sector, and philanthropies to tackle systemic climate and environmental challenges.

What sets Patagonia apart in terms of its organizational values and philosophies, elevating them beyond mere aspirational statements, is their practical implementation throughout the organization's core functions, from product design to supply chain management and customer engagement, transforming them into actionable principles that guide the company's daily practices. As Patagonia's footprint continues to expand, Vincent Stanley offered an update on the company and its culture, and urged leaders to envision a future of fewer, better things, based on a greener, more responsible approach to business.

Back from the break, we met Alex Honnold. Alex's incredible journey and his ability to manage fear and free solo the world's tallest cliffs is undeniably impressive. Yet, what inspires us the most is the profound intention and purpose that he brings to his life, merging his passions and committing to protect the planet in every way possible. Joined by Michael Liebreich, we asked ourselves: Are we living the life we truly desire? Are we directing our energy to the right places? Are we reaching everyone in a fair and equal manner?

The challenges we face as a society go beyond the climate action – it's about human rights and social justice. As we neared the end of the conference, we heard from Ban Ki-moon, Former Secretary-General of the United Nations, a “bridge-builder” and a key figure in crafting the 2030 Agenda and the Paris Agreement, who called for a fair energy transition rooted in international cooperation where no one is left behind.

Miguel Stilwell d’Andrade joined Ban Ki-moon on stage for a fireside chat to discuss the high strategic and security value of the energy sector and emphasize the significance of dialogue and collaboration to ensure access to clean, reliable and affordable energy for all.

Miguel Stilwell d'Andrade wrapped up the second edition of the We Choose Earth Tour by summarizing the main takeaways and encouraging everyone to play an active role in shaping a sustainable future for all.