The ChangeNOW 2026 summit is set to unfold at the historic Grand Palais in Paris from March 30 to April 1, bringing together influential figures from across the globe to tackle pressing environmental and social challenges. With a focus on actionable solutions, this landmark event aims to inspire collaboration and drive concrete initiatives that will address the world’s most urgent climate issues.
A Gathering of Visionaries
As the world grapples with the realities of climate change—with seven of the nine planetary boundaries already surpassed—the importance of this summit cannot be overstated. Santiago Lefebvre, founder and CEO of ChangeNOW, encapsulates the urgency: “In a world shaped by planetary limits, the question is not whether to act, but how.” This year’s event will not only highlight the scientific underpinnings of our environmental crisis but will also serve as a platform for economic and political discourse, pushing for transformative action.
The summit will draw participation from a diverse array of stakeholders, including entrepreneurs, NGOs, corporations, investors, and policymakers. With 36 international delegations engaging in discussions centred around European sovereignty, climate governance, and cross-border cooperation, ChangeNOW 2026 promises to be a nexus for innovative ideas and viable solutions.
What to Expect at ChangeNOW
ChangeNOW is more than just an annual summit; it is a year-round social enterprise dedicated to facilitating the transition towards sustainable practices. The 2026 summit will showcase an impressive 1,000 sustainable solutions across thematic zones such as food, health, agriculture, cities, circular economy, fashion, and biodiversity. These solutions have been meticulously chosen for their potential to create significant positive impacts on a global scale.
The event is expected to attract around 40,000 attendees from 140 countries, including 10,000 companies, 1,200 investors, and 1,000 journalists. This vast assembly is poised to engage in over 50 workshops, an array of talks featuring global thought leaders, and numerous networking opportunities—from ice-breaker sessions to one-on-one meetings tailored by sector or region.
Previous summits have birthed impactful collaborations, such as the partnership between Slovenian startup PlanetCare and the French Ministry of Ecological and Social Transition, which successfully addressed pollution caused by plastic microfibres. Such examples illustrate how ChangeNOW functions as a catalyst for meaningful change in environmental policy and practice.
Notable Speakers and Key Topics
The roster of speakers at ChangeNOW 2026 is a testament to the event’s significance. Over 500 thought leaders, scientists, activists, and business luminaries will take the stage to share their insights on crucial topics like emissions reduction and nature-based solutions. Notable figures include Laurent Fabius, COP21 President, and Johan Rockström, the architect of the planetary boundaries framework.
Also featured are leading voices from the United Nations, such as Melissa Fleming and Diana Ürge-Vorsatz, as well as prominent advocates like Matt Damon, who will address water and sanitation issues. With a diverse array of discussions scheduled, participants can expect to engage with a wide range of topics—from ‘Environmental Intelligence’ to ‘How to Organise Collective Action.’
Engaging the Public
ChangeNOW 2026 is committed to inclusivity, offering ample opportunities for the general public to participate. On April 1, attendees can explore exhibitions showcasing innovative solutions, attend a variety of conferences, and engage with impactful artworks throughout the Grand Palais. Families are encouraged to join in through the Families for Change programme, with free tickets available for visitors under 18.
Additionally, the Impact Job Fair will connect job seekers with 500 recruiters offering over 600 positions, alongside 15 training providers dedicated to fostering meaningful career paths in sustainability.
Why it Matters
The ChangeNOW summit stands as a beacon of hope and action in an age defined by climate urgency. By uniting global leaders, innovators, and the public, it fosters collaboration that transcends borders and disciplines. The outcomes of this summit have the potential to reshape our approach to environmental challenges, driving the systemic change needed to safeguard our planet for future generations. In a world where every decision counts, ChangeNOW 2026 is not just a meeting; it is a movement towards a sustainable future.
