(16 June 2012)
The Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program, an outreach initiative of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology in Abu Dhabi, reflects the UAE’s commitment to ensuring a sustainable future, according to Maitha Mohammed Al Kaabi, a Master’s Graduate in Water and Environmental Engineering.
From the Green Composites and Bio-fuels Lab at Masdar Institute of Science and Technology in Abu Dhabi to the isolated southernmost continent of Antarctica and then to Northern India for developing community-based energy projects, Maitha Al Kaabi reflects the Emirati youth’s strong commitment to sustainability and renewable energy.
A member of the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program, Maitha Al Kaabi shared her experience of the 16-day journey to Antarctica and the UAE’s commitment to tackling environmental challenges with delegates at the Rio+20 Summit organized by the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development. To be held from 20-22 June in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, the event has gathered more than 50,000 participants from governments, companies and environmental and non-government groups to set new goals across seven core themes including food security, water and energy.
Maitha Al Kaabi was part of the delegation from Masdar Institute, participating in key events at the Summit in Brazil.
Speaking at the UAE Pavilion Theatre, Maitha Al Kaabi said: “The YFEL program at Masdar Institute is a true enabling agent for students and youth. YFEL gave me an opportunity to travel the world in pursuit of knowledge in sustainable energy and advanced technology. Today, I am proudly sharing my experience as a YFEL member with everyone including industry leaders and those propagating the sustainability cause. I am privileged to be part of the Rio+20 Summit, which seeks to raise awareness among decision-makers and corporate leaders on the need to remain sustainable.”
Al Kaabi also highlighted the role of her research in water treatment and desalination at Masdar Institute that will lead to cost-effective methods to bring potable water to desert regions.
YFEL offers participants exceptional and unmatched access to top global leaders, senior business executives and academics engaged in alternative energy and sustainability through events such as World Future Energy Summit (WFES) in Abu Dhabi and other major events held globally. It is mandated to educate, inspire and empower students and young professionals to become future leaders capable of solving the world’s most pressing challenges in advanced energy and sustainability.