Organized by the University's Polar Research Center, the event brought together global experts to explore zero-emission technologies and future-ready infrastructure for polar research. 

During the seminar, Khalifa University President H.E. Prof. Ebrahim Al Hajri met with Dr. Alain Hubert, Founder and President, IPF, and discussed the University’s significant role in polar research and explored potential collaboration. 

An outcome of the Emirates Polar Program, the Polar Research Center at Khalifa University, is dedicated to advancing knowledge and understanding of the polar regions through comprehensive and interdisciplinary research. It is a key contributor in filling the knowledge gaps in polar sciences, aligning with global initiatives like the 5th International Polar Year 2032-33. 

Dr. Diana Francis, Head of the Environment and Geophysical Sciences (ENGEOS) Lab at Khalifa University, opened the event by highlighting UAE's commitment to sustainability and its ambition to expand its polar research capabilities through international collaborations such as their partnership with the International Polar Foundation. 

During the seminar IPF Founder and President Alain Hubert gave a presentation about the Princess Elisabeth Antarctica, the world's first zero-emission polar research station, which operates entirely on renewable wind and solar energy. The groundbreaking station minimizes its carbon footprint through smart architecture, advanced waste-management systems, and optimized energy storage. 

Later on in the event, Director of the International Polar Foundation UK and Vice-President for Environmental and International Affairs Nighat Johnson-Amin introduced the Andromeda Earth Observatory and Antarctic University Hub. It will be a fully autonomous, zero-emission research platform to be built in East Antarctica that combines research, education, and technology development. 

Learn more about the event by reading the press release on the Khalifa University website.