In a world teetering on the brink of environmental collapse, ChangeNOW 2026 is set to become a pivotal gathering for business leaders, policymakers, and innovators dedicated to reshaping our planet’s future. Taking place from March 30th to April 1st at the historic Grand Palais in Paris, this summit aims to tackle urgent climate and social issues through actionable solutions and collaborative efforts.
A Call to Action at the Grand Palais
The iconic Grand Palais will serve as the backdrop for this year’s summit, symbolising a commitment to sustainability that dates back to the Paris Agreement’s inception in 2015. Santiago Lefebvre, the 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. ChangeNOW brings together science, business, political and civil leadership to structure concrete action.”
With the alarming reality that seven of the nine planetary boundaries have already been breached, the summit will utilise the planetary boundaries framework as a guide for economic and political decision-making. Participants will include representatives from 36 international delegations, engaging in discussions around European sovereignty, climate governance, and cross-border collaboration.
What to Expect from ChangeNOW 2026
The ChangeNOW summit is renowned as the largest global event dedicated to environmental solutions. This year, it expects to attract 40,000 attendees from 140 countries, including over 10,000 companies and 1,200 investors. The event will feature thematic zones focusing on areas such as food, health, agriculture, circular economy, and biodiversity, all showcasing 1,000 impactful sustainable solutions with the potential for large-scale deployment.
In addition, attendees can participate in over 50 workshops and a robust programme of speeches from leaders in various fields. Networking opportunities abound, with sessions designed to foster collaboration among attendees. Past partnerships forged at ChangeNOW have led to significant achievements, including initiatives aimed at reducing plastic pollution and enhancing ocean health.
A Star-Studded Line-Up of Speakers
The summit will host more than 500 influential speakers, including scientists, activists, and celebrities. Among the notable figures announced is Laurent Fabius, President of COP21, who will discuss the crucial theme of information and governance. Other speakers include Johan Rockström, the scientist behind the planetary boundaries framework, and economist Kate Raworth, the founder of the Doughnut Economics Action Lab.
In a unique twist, actor Matt Damon will join the conference virtually, sharing insights from his work with WaterEquity and Water.org, focusing on global water and sanitation issues. The diverse roster of speakers promises a rich array of discussions, from ‘Environmental Intelligence’ to ‘Making Nature Protection Sexy.’
Engaging the Public
ChangeNOW 2026 is not just for industry insiders; the general public is encouraged to participate, especially on April 1st. Attendees can explore innovative solutions presented by various exhibitors, attend conferences, and engage with artistic displays throughout the Grand Palais. Families are also invited to join the “Families for Change” programme, while young visitors under 18 can attend for free.
Additionally, the Impact Job Fair on April 1st will connect job seekers with over 500 recruiters offering more than 600 positions, alongside training opportunities to foster meaningful careers in sustainability.
Why it Matters
ChangeNOW 2026 represents a crucial opportunity to galvanise global action towards addressing the climate crisis. By uniting leaders from various sectors, the summit aims to catalyse real change and inspire participants to adopt sustainable practices. The solutions discussed here could pave the way for a healthier planet and a more equitable future for all, signalling a vital step in our collective journey towards sustainability.
