19 Sep Blockchain for UN Charter Values and SDGs- Event in the NYC
On September 13th, 2023, a pivotal event unfolded in New York City as BC100+, a global initiative committed to advancing the values of the United Nations (UN) Charter and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through blockchain, took center stage. This closed hybrid think tank workshop was a collaborative effort between BC100+, the Global Business Blockchain Council (GBBC), EPE, and Microsoft. Under the distinguished High Patronage of H.E. Csaba Kőrösi, the 77th President of the 77th UN General Assembly, BC100+ gathered the blockchain ecosystem in support of UN initiatives.
This event marked a significant milestone in BC100+’s ongoing mission to promote blockchain’s role in sustainability. By bridging the realms of web2 and web3 technologies, BC100+ aspires to make a positive global impact. Notably, IOTA, represented by members within its community projects and the IOTA Foundation (IF), played a prominent role as a Steering Committee member.
The workshop’s rich agenda spanned diverse subjects, from elucidating blockchain’s contributions to UN Charter values and the SDGs to exploring inclusive finance, the ocean and blue economy, due diligence norms, and more. The day commenced with a warm welcome from Cale Teeter, Senior Software Development Engineer at Microsoft, and Sandra Ro, CEO of the Global Blockchain Business Council (GBBC), who is also a BC100+ signatory.
This gathering featured luminaries in their respective fields. Noteworthy participants included Ms. Shamika N. Sirimanne, Director of the UNCTAD Division on Technology and Logistics, who shared insights into blockchain’s impact on trade facilitation. Mr. Gayan Peiris, Head of Data and Technology at UNDP, delved into the UN High Impact Initiative, which bolsters local digital ecosystems in 75 countries. Additionally, Mr. Ashok Adiceam, Deputy Special Envoy of the President of the French Republic for the 3rd United Nations Conference on the Ocean, provided valuable insights into ocean sustainability. These distinguished speakers were complemented by experts from diverse organizations, fostering dynamic discussions on blockchain’s potential to advance UN Charter values and the SDGs.
As a member of the BC100+ steering committee, Mariana de la Roche represented the IOTA Foundation, INATBA, and the EUBOF. She delivered a compelling presentation underscoring BC100+’s core mission, emphasizing the importance of global blockchain adoption, and highlighting the role of demonstrable projects in inspiring others.
Mariana expressed, “Leading the BC100+ initiative is both an honor and a responsibility. It’s a unique opportunity to drive real change and create a global community that harnesses the power of blockchain for sustainable development. By spearheading this effort, we aim to showcase the transformative potential of blockchain technology and build partnerships that bridge the gap between web2, web3, and decentralized systems. Together, we can truly make a difference in advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and shaping a more equitable and sustainable future for all.”
This event vividly demonstrated how blockchain can serve as a potent tool to address global challenges, and BC100+ stands at the forefront of this movement. BC100+ and its Steering Committee members extend an open invitation to other blockchain projects and initiatives to join this global community dedicated to leveraging blockchain for sustainable development. By participating in BC100+, these projects can actively shape the future of blockchain technology.
Moreover, BC100+ hosts a series of engaging events and workshops that provide a platform for projects to showcase their work, share insights, and collaborate with like-minded innovators. Collectively, initiatives like BC100+ can amplify the impact of blockchain solutions, foster meaningful partnerships, and contribute to the realization of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Join the BC100+ community at https://bc100plus.org/ and become a part of the movement to build a more sustainable and inclusive world through blockchain.
