14 & 15 May, 2025. New York
Unlocking the Capital & Partnerships Needed to Build a More Resilient Climate Future
More than 200 leaders and visionaries will convene in May 2025 to scale innovative solutions and unlock the critical capital needed to prepare, prevent, respond and recover from evolving climate risks.
Whether through physical infrastructure or organisational attitude, preparation is the first step to building a more resilient world.
Our 2025 Summit Advisory Board
Meet the pioneers defining the critical themes for Adapt Unbound USA. Featuring investor heavyweights, NGOs, innovators, and corporate leaders, our expert Advisory Board and production team have crafted a two-day agenda focused on scaling the Adaptation and Resilience industry.
Vasundhara Jolly
Climate Change Specialist
Tom Ferguson
Managing Partner
Steph Jones
Program Manager
Elias Habbar-Baylac
Sustainability Investments Lead
Katie MacDonald
Co-Founder
Ria Perrault
Climate Programs Associate
Franco Amalfi
Sustainability Strategic Initiatives & Partners
Laura Fox
Co-Founder & Managing Partner
Julia Kumari Drapkin
CEO
Katherine Cunningham
Engagement Manager
Mary Claire Morris
Senior Sustainability Associate
Sadie Frank
CEO
Companies that Attended in 2024
Unrivalled connections
Unmatched insights
Unbound opportunities
Adaptation, not JUST Mitigation
Scientists have concluded that our goal to keep the world’s temperature rise below 1.5C is now impossible. Whilst mitigation remains the core pillar to climate strategy, the time has come for individuals and companies alike to prioritise an adaptive approach to the climate crisis. The survival of a company, and species, is now being seen through a lens of ‘what do I need to do to ensure future safety’, rather than ‘waiting to tread water against the current, when the flood comes’.
The Multi-Trillion-Dollar Opportunity
Adaptation action brings multiple benefits, also known as the triple dividend. From avoided losses to significant economic, social and environmental benefits, there is a multi-trillion-dollar opportunity to invest now and build healthier, fairer and more resilient world. This opportunity is yet to be fully realised, especially by the private sector.
A Global Convening for Climate Resilience
Adapt Unbound USA is the premier summit for exploring how public and private sectors can collaborate to tackle evolving climate risks, featuring case studies, impactful networking opportunities and a platform to showcase your solutions to key stakeholders.
Attend to connect with policy makers, corporate leaders, innovators and financiers, and implement strategies for safeguarding your business and community against evolving climate risks.
Meet our Carbon Unbound USA ‘24 Advisory Board
CDR pioneers crafting the discussion.
Brad Ack
Chief Executive Officer
Ocean Visions
Giana Amador
Executive Director
Carbon Removal Alliance
Nikki Batchelor
Director of Carbon Removal
XPRIZE Carbon Removal
Sarabeth Brockley
Head of Carbon Strategy
Nasdaq
Harris Cohn
Head of Sales
Charm Industrial
Kerry Constabile
Vice Chair, Energy Technical Advisory Committee & Senior Climate Expert
Gold Standard
Natalia Dorfman
CEO & Co-Founder
Kita
Kristin Ellis
Partner
Lowercarbon Capital
Alexander Farsan
Head of Climate and Environment
Klarna
Justin Freiberg
Managing Director
Yale Carbon Containment Lab
Mars Garza
Co-Founder
Alcove
Julie Gosalvez
Chief Marketing Officer
Climeworks
Annie Guo
Strategic Origination Lead, Carbon Removal
Microsoft
Angela Hepworth
SVP Commercial Innovation
Drax
Robert Höglund
Climate Advisor
Milkywire
Tito Jankowski
CEO
AirMiners
Hannes Junginger-Gestrich
Founder & CEO
Carbonfuture
Anu Khan
Deputy Director of Science & Innovation
Carbon180
Michelle Li
Founder
Clever Carbon
Jim Mann
Founder & CEO
UNDO
Radhika Moolgavkar
Head of Supply & Methodology
Nori
Luke Rondel
Head of Growth
Running Tide
Ben Rubin
Executive Director & Co-Founder
Carbon Business Council
Gaurav N. Sant
Pritzker Endowed Chair in Sustainability
UCLA Samueli School of Engineering
Benjamin Schulz
Founding Partner
Carbon Removal Partners
Mitchel Selby
Sustainability Fund
Shopify
Chris Sherwood
Secretary-General
Negative Emissions Platform
Anna Stukas
VP Business Development
Carbon Engineering Ltd
Susan Su
Partner
Toba Capital
Christian Theuer
Policy + Comms
Heirloom
Duncan Turner
General Partner
SOSV
Ongeleigh Underwood
Director
Circular Carbon Network
Rob van Straten
CEO
Skytree
In numbers
C-Suite or Director Level
Organisations in Attendance
Adaptation Market Opportunity
Don't Just Take Our Word For It
Just some of the delegate praise for our first Adapt Unbound summit.
Join the 2025 Waitlist!
Get access to discounted rates (up to $700) and fast-track your Adaptation journey.
2025 Summit Themes
Water Resilience
Solutions aiding flood prevention and drought response
Closing the Investment Gap
Bridging the gap between portfolio and climate risk
Industry Success, Post-Biden
State of adaptation under the Trump administration
What’s On?
Carbon Unbound West Coast hosts two full days of action-packed sessions and networking, here's your laser-focused CDR agenda.
Thursday 24th October
Morning
Coming Soon...
Afternoon
Coming Soon...
Friday 25th October
Morning
Coming Soon...
Afternoon
Coming Soon...
Unbound
Sustainability Pledge
Through the partnerships made, the momentum built and the knowledge shared, we are confident that our summits are helping engineer a more climate positive future. However, we recognise that our events
portfolio generates its share of emissions...
This is why we have partnered with Milkywire's Climate Transformation Fund to account for carbon emissions across our global event portfolio.
What's On?
Prepare, Prevent, Respond & Recover.
Adapt Unbound USA is THE summit to understand how public and private sectors can work together to prepare, prevent, respond and recover from evolving climate risks.
We will host two full days of action-packed sessions and networking, this is your laser-focused CDR agenda.
Wednesday 14th May
Morning
- What progress was made in climate adaptation policies and initiatives under the Biden administration?
- What changes are we experiencing under the Trump administration, and what impact have recent federal decisions had on private sector interest and incentives?
- What are the key climate adaptation challenges the government is still facing, and how can these obstacles be overcome to build a more resilient future?
- How can we foster collaboration between the public and private sector to ensure sustained progress towards climate adaptation, regardless of political leadership?
- US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) proposed rule will change how companies report climate-related risks that they face.How will climate-related governance imposed by the SEC focus on the higher level of management within companies?
- Will stricter disclosure requirements make it more or less likely for investors to invest in businesses?
- How can companies improve existing systems and processes to comply with stricter disclosure requirements akin to TCFD and European counterparts?
- What are the latest statistics on wildfire, and is the media painting the wrong picture?
- What solutions exist, or are being developed, to synergistically transform how wildfires are managed and fought? How do these change from coast to coast?
- What partnerships between the public and private sector have improved success when combating wildfires?
- What local and state policies exist to help support innovation and investment in this area?
- What are some low-cost solutions to reduce or prevent wildfire risks in urban areas, and how can we ensure these solutions reach the most vulnerable, including low-income and at-risk populations?
Start-ups focusing on wildfire technology will present their solutions to a panel of investor judges.
Afternoon
Organizations invite attendees to intimate discussions around critical challenges relating to adaptation and resilience. The session will enable the sharing of new ideas among delegates.
- With $208 billion in damages from climate disasters, and projections of $4 trillion in annual climate-related losses by 2030, what are some biggest supply chain-related risks posed by climate that are facing Fortune 500 companies?
- What climate solutions, from a corporate lens, are companies investing in to navigate these risks? What specific examples are there of corporations successfully working with innovators?
- As large, complex organizations, how does this impact their ability to make quick decisions?
- How are companies using analytics to assess, manage and quantify risk, particularly in long-term infrastructure and resilience investments?
10 minutes case setting, 30 minutes breakout discussion, 20 minutes feedback sharing between the audience.
Join us for an in-depth, comparative analysis of two of the most powerful hurricanes to impact the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, and uncover the crucial lessons they offer for building resilience in the face of extreme weather events.
This interactive case study session will dive deep into the differences in impact, response, recovery, and long-term resilience strategies employed by the affected communities. Drawing from firsthand accounts, scientific data, and expert insights, we’ll explore how the response to Hurricane Katrina’s devastating destruction contrasts with the more localized and ultimately less catastrophic impact of Hurricane Helene, and what these experiences teach us about better preparing for future storms.
- How can nature-based solutions (NBS) be integrated into urban planning to enhance resilience against flooding, extreme heat, and other climate-related impacts?
- What are the most effective nature-based approaches for mitigating urban heat islands and improving stormwater management in cities?
- How can nature-based solutions work in harmony with traditional infrastructure to create more sustainable, resilient cities?
- What challenges exist in scaling nature-based solutions for the built environment, and how can policymakers, developers, and communities overcome them?
- How can investors bridge the gap between portfolio risk and climate risk, and what factors do they need to consider when investing in resilience and adaptation solutions?
- Where are the gaps in financing that, if addressed, could yield significant returns on investment?
- Which areas of innovation are receiving the most support in the adaptation space?
- What are some successful examples of public-private partnerships creating blended finance models for sustainable, long-term adaptation solutions?
Thursday 15th May
Morning
- How can cross-sector partnerships enhance grid resilience and adaptability in the face of climate change?
- In what ways can innovation be leveraged to strengthen energy infrastructure against climate extremes and ensure reliability?
- How are evolving regulatory frameworks shaping collaboration between utilities and businesses to build a resilient and sustainable energy future?
- With the growth of AI, data centers, and other high-energy industries, is the increasing demand for energy impacting the ability to source renewable energy and maintain grid resilience? How can these sectors contribute to or challenge energy sustainability goals?
Organizations invite attendees to an intimate discussion around critical challenges relating to urban adaptation development. The session will culminate in the sharing of new ideas with delegates.
- How are inadequate guidelines and thresholds driving up premiums, and what strategies can be implemented to better protect properties in high-risk areas such as those facing heat, water, and wildfire threats?
- How is parametric insurance emerging as a more accessible solution for communities facing unaffordable premiums, with payouts tied to specific climate triggers like rainfall or heatwaves?
- How are insurance models evolving to address the increasing risks facing infrastructure from climate change, particularly in relation to wildfires, flooding, and extreme heat?
- What role do public-private partnerships and policy reforms play in improving the affordability and accessibility of climate-risk insurance for vulnerable communities?
- How is increasing awareness of climate change driving demand for energy-efficient HVAC solutions, and what role does HVAC play in reducing carbon footprints?
- In what ways are smart home technologies accelerating growth in the HVAC sector, and how do these innovations contribute to greater energy efficiency and climate resilience?
- How is automation transforming HVAC systems, enabling enhanced energy management, performance optimization, and improved resilience against climate extremes?
- What impact are evolving building codes, sustainability goals, and green certifications having on HVAC industry innovation and the adoption of more sustainable practices?
- What emerging trends and technologies will shape the future of HVAC systems in a climate-resilient world, and how can these innovations support the transition to net-zero buildings?
Afternoon
The floor is yours! This debate-style discussion will pose arguments for different investment models to enhance climate and adaptation related financing.
- What are the most urgent climate-driven risks to urban water systems, specifically in terms of flooding, and how are these risks evolving?
- How can cities enhance water infrastructure resilience to withstand the growing frequency and intensity of flood events? Are there any standout examples of cities successfully adapting to flood risks?
- How can utilities and municipalities use predictive tools and data modelling to anticipate and prepare for flood events, particularly flash floods and prolonged inundation?
- How can cities shift from reactive flood response strategies to proactive, long-term flood resilience planning that reduces future vulnerability?
Start-ups focusing on water resilience present their innovations to a panel of investor judges.
- Are we inadvertently investing in solutions that worsen conditions for vulnerable communities?
- What does true resilience look like when profit motives exploit disaster and loss of life?
- How do we ensure that adaptation strategies do not perpetuate systemic inequalities?
- Should we question the business models of companies profiting from the crises we aim to prevent?
- How is climate change impacting global agriculture, and what are the most pressing challenges farmers face in maintaining food security?
- What adaptive strategies can farmers implement to cope with changing weather patterns, water scarcity, and shifting crop viability?
- How is AI and digital technologies supporting farmers in building climate resilience?
- What role should policymakers, businesses, and local communities play in ensuring farmers have the resources and support needed to adapt to climate change?
- How can cities quantify and map urban heat islands to better understand their impact on local populations?
- How does the proposed OSHA Federal Heat Standard aim to protect workers from heat-related risks, and how will these protections be enforced in cities?
- What are the most effective nature-based and technology-driven interventions to mitigate urban heat, and how can we scale them?
- How can urban planning and design incorporate cooling strategies to protect vulnerable communities, especially low-income and minority populations?
- What role do public-private partnerships and community engagement play in creating sustainable heat reduction solutions in urban environments?
- How can governments, businesses, and communities collaborate to accelerate the implementation of climate resilience policies at local, national, and global levels?
- What are the most critical policy gaps that need to be addressed to ensure equitable access to climate adaptation solutions, especially for vulnerable populations?
- How can international frameworks and agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, be strengthened to better integrate resilience-building into global climate policy?
- What role should financial institutions and investors play in supporting the scaling of climate resilience initiatives through policy reforms and incentives?
- How can governments balance urgent climate action with long-term resilience goals, ensuring that adaptation measures are both sustainable and equitable?
Picture the Scene
Nestled amongst iconic landmarks and globally important institutions, 22 Vanderbilt in midtown NYC is the perfect space to listen to, share, and form the ideas of the future.
We chose NYC as the stage for Adapt Unbound for many reasons. The city is implementing pioneering adaptation policies while grappling with systemic climate impact. It is home to the world’s largest capital market and the UN headquarters. It’s also one of the biggest and most culturally diverse cities in the world.
Nearest Stations
- Grand Central Terminal
- Madison Avenue
- E 42 St/Park Av
Closest airports
- Newark Liberty: 35 minutes by cab, 1 hour by train
- JFK: 50 minutes by cab, 1 hour by train
Hotel Recommendations
- Budget Conscious: Fitzpatrick Grand Central
- Mid-Range: InterContinental New York Barclay, an IHG Hotel
- High-End: Hilton Club The Central at 5th New York
A Priceless Experience
Highly discounted Super Early Bird tickets go on sale on 12 December 2024.
One ticket provides access to the best in the industry. Our goal has–and will always be – to create an accessible space for diverse conversations and growth around Adaptation & Resiliency.
We expect another sell out event. Signing up to our Waitlist is the best way to be alerted and avoid disappointment.
Need a Future Discount?
Click on the relevant group below, fill out a contact form and we will be in touch!
Super Early Bird (ends 31 January)
Early Bird (ends 28 February)
General Admission
$795
$995
$1,295
Need a discount?
Click on the relevant group below, fill out a contact form and we will be in touch!
Have Questions? Read our FAQs
Need more answers? Contact our team by clicking the button below.
Is the summit streamed/ available digitally?
We believe nothing can replace the value of in-person meetings and sitting behind a screen for hours on-end hinders creativity and focus. Taking place in the heart of New York, we've made the decision to do away with virtual streaming. Get out from behind your desk and come away energised, with the connections and insights you need to take your project to the next level.
Summit audio content is available post-event in our Library and is free for delegate attendees, access can be purchased if you weren't able to make it in person.
I'm a start-up. Are there special rates?
Start-ups are entitled to a special discount if you meet certain critera. Please get in contact with delegates@unboundsummits.com and share your number of employees, series of funding and company focus.
What is included in my ticket?
A full two-day, in-person summit pass. Listen to all live discussions and join the debate. Access to our networking app two weeks before and four weeks after the summit. Breakfast, lunch, networking break snacks, and coffee for both days. One hour of closing networking drinks on day 2.
What is your refund policy?
Up to 30 days before the event date you can cancel and request a refund, there will be a 15% cancellation fee. After this point, we unfortunately are unable to provide a refund. You can however transfer your pass to a colleague anytime.
Do you have an event app, and am I able to book 1-1 meetings?
Yes! Meetings and networking is at the core of our summits. As an attendee, you will receive information about how to join our networking tool two weeks before the summit. On there, you will be able to connect with other attendees and set up meetings onsite.
How can I apply for a press pass?
For more information on press attendance, please email corby@unboundsummits.com.
The Time for Adaptation is Now!
Join us at Adapt Unbound USA and build a resilient future, one groundbreaking conversation at a time.
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We're better together. Adaptation solutions require action from all areas of science, business and politics.
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Looking for hotel recommendations, more details, or session information? Don’t hesitate to reach out.