The ChangeNOW 2026 summit is set to take place from March 30 to April 1 at the historic Grand Palais in Paris, uniting over 40,000 attendees, including business leaders, policymakers, and innovators, to forge actionable solutions to pressing environmental and social issues. As the world grapples with the realities of climate change and the limits of our planet, this year’s summit seeks to provide a platform for collaboration and meaningful dialogue.
Addressing Planetary Boundaries
This year’s gathering is framed within the context of the planetary boundaries concept, which identifies critical thresholds that humanity must not exceed to maintain a stable and resilient Earth. Santiago Lefebvre, the founder and CEO of ChangeNOW, emphasises the urgency of action: “In a world shaped by planetary limits, the question is not whether to act, but how. How can we keep our societies running within the Earth’s boundaries and without losing our freedom and sovereignty?” This focus highlights the intersection of scientific caution and the necessity for decisive economic and political strategies.
With seven of the nine planetary limits already breached, the summit aims to galvanise efforts to address climate action through innovative solutions. Participants will include 36 international delegations, focusing on topics such as European sovereignty, international climate governance, and cross-border cooperation.
A Hub of Innovation and Collaboration
As the world’s largest event dedicated to sustainable solutions, ChangeNOW serves as a crucial incubator for ideas and partnerships. Over 1,000 sustainable initiatives will be showcased, addressing critical challenges across sectors like food, health, agriculture, and biodiversity. These solutions have been meticulously selected for their potential for positive impact and scalability.
The event will feature more than 50 workshops and a diverse programme of discussions led by global thought leaders. Networking opportunities abound, allowing participants to engage in ice-breaker sessions, one-on-one meetings, and sector-specific gatherings. Such interactions have historically led to transformative collaborations, including previous initiatives like the partnership between the Slovenian startup PlanetCare and the French Ministry of Ecological and Social Transition, which aimed to mitigate plastic microfibre pollution.
Influential Voices at ChangeNOW
The summit will host over 500 speakers, ranging from scientists and activists to public figures and business leaders, across five conference and pitch stages. Among the notable speakers are Laurent Fabius, President of COP21, and Johan Rockström, who developed the planetary boundaries framework. They will address critical themes such as emissions reduction and nature-based solutions.
Other prominent figures include Kate Raworth, founder of the Doughnut Economics Action Lab, and Matt Damon, who will speak virtually about water and sanitation issues through his work with Water.org. The variety of discussions promises to cover a wide array of topics, from ‘Environmental Intelligence’ to ‘Making Nature Protection Sexy’, ensuring a rich and dynamic exchange of ideas.
Public Engagement and Opportunities
ChangeNOW 2026 will also open its doors to the general public on April 1, offering a unique chance for individuals to engage with innovative solutions and participate in the summit’s discussions. Visitors can explore exhibits and attend conferences, alongside enjoying sustainable art displays. The ‘Families for Change’ programme will provide educational opportunities for younger attendees, while the Impact Job Fair will connect job seekers with over 500 recruiters and training providers, further fostering a sense of community commitment to sustainable development.
Tickets for ChangeNOW 2026 are available for those eager to contribute to the discourse on building a sustainable future.
Why it Matters
The ChangeNOW 2026 summit represents a pivotal moment in global climate action, bringing together diverse stakeholders to confront the urgent challenges posed by environmental degradation and social inequity. By fostering collaboration and sharing innovative solutions, this gathering not only serves as a catalyst for change but also reinforces the idea that collective action and shared responsibility are essential in safeguarding our planet’s future. The outcomes of this summit could define the trajectory of climate action in the years to come, making it an unmissable event for anyone invested in the health of our planet.
