Globally renowned scientists attending the 15th International Workshop on Advanced Materials (IWAM) in Ras Al Khaimah participated in two sessions of the “UAE Innovates”, offering insights and expertise in areas related to sustainability and the intersection of science and innovation.

Prof. Sir Anthony Cheetham, Chairman of Ras Al Khaimah Centre for Advanced Materials (RAKCAM), which organises IWAM, and Prof. Veena Sahajwalla, Director of the SMaRT Centre at the University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia, both delivered one-hour talks to an audience of government officials, academics and students at Al Hamra International Exhibition and Conference Centre.

UAE Innovates is a nationwide celebration of innovation, one of the largest events of its kind in the world, and a consolidated effort by the government, private sector and individuals to help create a widespread culture of innovation in the UAE.

Sir Anthony Cheetham, who is also a Research Professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a Visiting Professor at the National University of Singapore, spoke about the goals of the Ras Al Khaimah Centre for Advanced Materials and the role of the International Workshop on Advanced Materials in promoting science and inspiring school and university students in Ras Al Khaimah and across the UAE. He shared his thoughts on how advanced materials have the potential to revolutionise several industries, such as aerospace, transport, construction and healthcare, and can help lower carbon footprint and energy demand.

Prof. Sahajwalla, who is known as ‘The Waste Queen’ in her native Australia for her pioneering work in transforming waste into green materials, spoke about how utilising waste is essential to achieve true sustainability. She also shared details about ways to reform waste and reuse it in a circular economy.

UAE Innovates continues in Ras Al Khaimah at Al Hamra International Exhibition and Conference Centre until 23rd February. As part of the month-long nationwide agenda for ‘UAE Innovates 2024’, the exhibition showcases key innovations across various sectors, featuring lectures, workshops and panel discussions on the pivotal role of innovative solutions in driving continued progress and prosperity.