At the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Monday, world leaders and were astounded by a groundbreaking immersive projection by Expo 2020 Dubai, that urged quick action on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The projection brought Expo’s powerful narrative talent and its Al Wasl dome’s technological capabilities to the UN’s Headquarters in New York, in a collaboration for the SDG Moment, the UN’s annual spotlight on the Global Goals. The contribution from the team behind Expo 2020 Dubai, and now Expo City Dubai, exemplifies the UAE's dedication to advancing a more just future for people and the planet by continuing the tradition of using innovative, multi-sensory storytelling to raise awareness and move ahead in tackling the world's most pressing challenges.
Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and CEO, Expo City Dubai Authority, called for action saying: “Expo 2020 Dubai welcomed more than 24 million visits against the backdrop of a global pandemic, setting a benchmark for what can be achieved when there is a joint commitment to making a positive impact. Following the example of the leadership of the UAE, who have led the charge in rallying people to drive action on causes both locally and around the world, it spread a powerful message that each of us can create a ripple effect with our actions.”
She added: “It is in this spirit that we continue this journey, engaging with an international audience at the UNGA and helping build a community of advocates who believe in collaboration with a purpose. We are honored to bring the creative talents of the Expo team to the UN, and to see their capabilities recognized on the global stage.”
Amina J Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General, United Nations, emphasized that “tomorrow is too late” and stated: “Expo 2020 Dubai inspired the world to come together and keep the promise of the SDGs. For the SDG Moment in 2022 we bring some of that extraordinary spirit and creativity to New York and the UNGA. I am optimistic that collectively we can scale solutions with partners like the UAE for people and for the planet. We’re out of time. Tomorrow is too late. Yet together, today, we can create a better future for all.”
The immersive film experience discussed how the forces of nature - the globe and its inhabitants - impact the world's beauty, intellect, and fragility. The experience also illustrated the enormous potential that can be realized when nature and people work together, showcasing some of the actual commitments from Expo 2020 attendees on the measures to promote the SDGs with a flurry of virtual post-its from "the world's to-do list". The SDG Moment then set the stage for the "Transforming Education Summit," with the projection shifting to a narrative of youngsters from around the world realizing their full potential. This was both inspiring and insightful into what future generations are capable of and why they are the key to sustainability and preserving our planet.
The SDG Moment, hosted by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, offers a forum to highlight the ambitious initiatives and solutions required to meet the goals by 2030.
