A significant gathering of global leaders, innovators, and activists is set to take place in Paris as the ChangeNOW 2026 summit prepares to kick off from March 30th to April 1st. With a focus on actionable solutions to pressing environmental and social issues, this year’s event will be hosted at the historic Grand Palais, underscoring its connection to the Paris Agreement of 2015. The summit promises to be a crucial platform for tackling the urgent challenges posed by climate change, with experts from various sectors uniting to foster impactful dialogue and collaboration.
A Crucial Convergence of Ideas
The ChangeNOW summit, often hailed as the world’s largest event dedicated to environmental solutions, will see participation from representatives across 140 countries. With an expected turnout of 40,000 attendees, the event will include 10,000 companies, 1,200 investors, and 1,000 journalists. This year’s summit is particularly significant as it comes at a time when seven of the nine planetary boundaries identified by scientists have already been breached.
Santiago Lefebvre, founder and CEO of ChangeNOW, emphasised the urgency of the situation: “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 question encapsulates the summit’s mission to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and practical action.
Diverse Themes and Innovative Solutions
The summit will feature thematic zones that address critical areas such as food security, health, agriculture, urban development, circular economy, fashion, and biodiversity. Participants can expect to see a showcase of 1,000 sustainable solutions aimed at mitigating severe environmental and social challenges. These initiatives have been carefully selected for their potential to create a substantial positive impact and be deployed on a large scale.
In addition to the exhibitions, over 50 workshops will provide attendees with opportunities to engage in discussions led by global thought leaders. Networking sessions will facilitate connections among diverse stakeholders, including entrepreneurs, NGOs, corporates, and policymakers. Previous summits have successfully catalysed partnerships that have led to significant policy changes, such as the collaboration between Slovenian startup PlanetCare and the French Ministry of Ecological and Social Transition to combat plastic pollution.
A Line-Up of Influential Speakers
ChangeNOW 2026 will host an impressive array of speakers, including over 500 influential figures from various sectors. Among the first confirmed speakers is Laurent Fabius, President of COP21, who will address governance and information in the context of climate action. Other notable participants include UN representatives like Melissa Fleming and Diana Ürge-Vorsatz, as well as well-known figures such as Johan Rockström, the scientist behind the planetary boundaries framework, and Matt Damon, who will speak virtually on water and sanitation issues through his work with WaterEquity and Water.org.
The breadth of topics covered at the summit will include emissions reduction strategies, nature-based solutions, and the socio-economic impacts of climate change. The first morning alone will feature discussions on subjects ranging from ‘Environmental Intelligence’ to ‘Making Nature Protection Sexy’, ensuring a diverse and engaging programme.
Public Engagement and Participation
ChangeNOW 2026 is not just for industry insiders; the general public is encouraged to participate and engage with the plethora of activities on offer. On April 1st, visitors will have the chance to explore innovative solutions showcased by exhibitors and attend conferences throughout the day. The event will also feature artistic installations and the Families for Change programme, aimed at educating and inspiring younger generations.
Additionally, an Impact Job Fair will provide an invaluable opportunity for job seekers, with over 500 recruiters ready to fill more than 600 roles, alongside numerous training providers. With free tickets available for visitors under 18, the summit aims to be inclusive and accessible to all.
Why it Matters
The ChangeNOW summit stands at a pivotal moment as the world grapples with the consequences of climate change and its myriad effects on society. By bringing together a diverse range of voices and fostering collaboration, ChangeNOW not only amplifies the urgency of the climate crisis but also highlights actionable pathways forward. This gathering is a testament to the collective will to innovate, inspire, and implement sustainable solutions that can reshape our future. As we strive to address the pressing environmental challenges of our time, the summit serves as a crucial reminder that the power to create meaningful change lies in unity and shared purpose.
