Representatives from 35 global partners and stakeholders take a ceremonial pledge to strengthen collective action for glacier and ocean conservation at the launch of the Saving Glaciers and Oceans Alliance at World Cities Summit 2026 on 16 June 2026.
Global
Stakeholders
Unite To Save
Glaciers And
Oceans In
New Alliance
City Developments Limited (CDL) and its partners recently launched the Saving Glaciers and Oceans Alliance at the World Cities Summit 2026 (14 to 16 June 2026), establishing a global platform to advance collaboration, partnerships and practical solutions for the protection of glaciers and oceans.
Spearheaded by CDL, the initiative aims to mobilise stakeholders across sectors and geographies to address the growing threats facing these critical ecosystems.
The launch was marked by a ceremonial pledge undertaken by 35 country representatives, leading non-governmental organisations and other key stakeholders to affirm their commitment to strengthening collaborative action across sectors and borders in the protection of glaciers and oceans.
The Alliance was unveiled at the City Innovators Stage, which also featured “Innovators Alley”, an exhibition showcasing 11 Singapore companies and their innovations in nature-based solutions, property technology, carbon reduction technologies and sustainability tools.
Environmental leaders (L-R): Ms Andrea Erikson, Sir Robert Swan, and Mr Michael Aw (from left to right) participated in a fireside chat on strengthening global collaboration, moderated by Ms An. 
The Innovators Alley exhibition that showcased Singapore companies and their innovations in nature-based solutions and technologies.
They include diplomats representing Australia, Cambodia, Colombia, the European Union Delegation to Singapore, Indonesia, the Lao People's Democratic Republic and Panama, as well as representatives from global organisations such as the World Business Council for Sustainable Development and the World Green Building Council.
Ms Esther An, Chief Sustainability Officer of CDL, said, "The scale and speed of glacier melt, which together with global warming contributes to sea-level rise, demands urgent collaborative action. As a built environment leader, CDL is committed to accelerating climate action and mitigating our industry’s environmental impact. Through the Saving Glaciers and Oceans Alliance, we aim to bring together public, private and people sectors to accelerate meaningful solutions for two ecosystems that are fundamental to the health of our planet. We believe that sustainability is not achieved by any one organisation acting alone – it requires partnerships, innovation and a shared commitment to creating a more resilient future for all."
CBM Showcases Smart Facilities Solutions
CBM, the facilities management subsidiary of CDL, was among the 11 Singapore companies that hosted a showcase booth featuring its Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) capabilities. The display highlighted the company’s adoption of smart technologies, including robotic patrol solutions and an automated façade cleaning system, reflecting CBM’s continued focus on innovation and operational excellence in facilities management.
The CBM team at its exhibition booth with Chief Technology Officer Mr Derek Yoh (centre, in black jacket), who also spoke at the World Cities Summit conference. They are pictured with a security patrol robot demonstrating the company's technology-driven approach to smart facilities management and operational excellence. 
CBM representatives engaging with visitors interested in learning more about the company’s smart facilities management technologies.
CBM Chief Technology Officer Mr Derek Yoh also took part in the conference programme as a speaker. In his session, he highlighted the increasingly critical role of facilities management in addressing urban challenges such as rising heat stress, public health risks, and carbon emissions.
He noted that these challenges can be better managed through an integrated approach that combines sustainable building design, smart technologies, data-driven operations, proactive maintenance strategies, and initiatives that support workforce well-being.
The World Cities Summit is an international platform that brings together urban leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to exchange ideas and explore solutions for building more sustainable and liveable cities. The 2026 edition in Singapore drew over 4,200 delegates and trade visitors from 263 cities worldwide.
Minister for National Development Mr Chee Hong Tat (centre) at the Innovations Alley Showcase during the launch of Saving Glaciers and Oceans Alliance at the World Cities Summit. He is pictured with CDL representatives, Head of Group Innovation Mr Ke-Vin Lim (left); Group General Manager Mr Chia Ngiang Hong (3rd from left); Chief Sustainability Officer Ms Esther An (4th from left) and partners.
