Climate vs. AI: Is AI helping or hurting climate goals?
Presented by the UBC Sauder Centre for Climate and Business Solutions in collaboration with KPMG's Leaders 2050 network
Part of #PNWClimateWeek
AI is no longer just a shiny new tool—it's a growing point of contention in climate conversations. Some see it as a powerful lever for progress; others warn it may be accelerating the problem. From energy-hungry data centers to algorithmic decision-making in carbon markets, AI’s role in the climate crisis is anything but straightforward.
Join us for an evening of two insightful panel discussions that explore how AI is being used—and questioned—in the fight against climate change.
Agenda
4:00 PM - Registration & Networking
4:30 PM: The Next Wave—Emerging leaders shaping the future of AI and sustainability
A forward-looking panel event presented by KPMG’s Leaders 2050, spotlighting innovative use cases for artificial intelligence through the lens of emerging leaders. As AI rapidly transforms industries and societies, it’s often the newest generation of experts who bring bold thinking, unconventional application, and fresh perspectives. This event will be showcasing how junior and emerging leaders are driving real impact with AI, from climate action and infrastructure to social equity and business intelligence.
Speakers:
Josh Hasdell, Senior Manager at KPMG
Monique Wong, Lead Product Manager at Powin
Aloysio Kouzak Campos da Paz, Master's Student at UBC
Rachel Mackay, Manager of Environmental Solutions at TELUS
5:30 PM: Climate vs. AI—Is AI helping or hurting climate goals?
This mainstage panel is not to be missed. Hear from leading voices in AI, policy, and climate finance as they unpack the risks, rewards, and responsibilities of AI in a warming world.
Speakers:
Dr. Ron Dembo, Founder and CEO of Riskthinking.ai
Shivam Kishore, Senior Advisor, Digital Transformation at UN Environment Programme
John Weigelt, National Technology Officer at Microsoft Canada
(Moderator) Dr. Maryam Golnaraghi, Director of Climate Change and Environment at the Geneva Association
6:30 PM: Networking
By registering for this event, you agree to share your registration information with the organizers of PNW Climate Week, receive communications about PNW Climate Week, and acknowledge that photos/videos may be taken for promotional use.