What to know about DC Climate Week themes
By Liz Gabriel
DC is central to policy and decision-making in our nation. Now, we’re determined to make it a catalyst for climate action, too. DC Climate Week (DCCW) is a new week-long event designed to drive climate innovation by providing opportunities to engage with policymakers, fund climate solutions, and showcase cutting-edge technologies.
There are five DC Climate Week themes that will guide our programming over the course of the week. Each day of the week will focus on one of those themes, with free, ticketed headline events at a metro-accessible hub venue and participating events nearby. Through curated workshops, panels, exhibitions, and networking events, we will transform our nation's capital into a global model for climate action.
And remember—you have the power to help us shape this content and its impact. If this overview sparks related ideas, session concepts, or partnerships we should consider, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Monday, April 28:
Innovation and technology
Hub: Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Center at 555 Pennsylvania Avenue, Penn Quarter
Innovation and technology are invaluable levers for tackling climate challenges. From AI-driven climate modeling to direct air carbon capture, our kickoff day will spotlight the most promising advancements shaping a more sustainable world.
Topics include:
AI and climate modeling
The future of renewable energy
The role of startups in sustainability
Direct air carbon capture and its potential
Government and venture capital funding in climate innovation
Tuesday, April 29:
Policy and advocacy
Hub: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, Metro Center
Policy drives action, and advocacy ensures that action is equitable and effective. This day will focus on the role of government, grassroots movements, and legal frameworks in shaping a climate-resilient future.
Topics include:
Restoring American energy dominance
Establishing the United States as the AI capital of the world
National security & disaster planning
Financing the future: driving U.S. innovation and workforce growth
Wednesday, April 30:
Finance and economy
Hub: The Square, Farragut North
The transition to a sustainable economy depends on smart financial strategies. This day will bring together investors, policymakers, and business leaders to explore how funding mechanisms can accelerate the shift toward a green economy.
Topics include:
Impact investing and carbon markets
Funding clean energy projects
Climate finance for international development
Thursday, May 1:
Nature
Hub: University of Southern California Capital Campus, Dupont Circle
Nature is one of our best defenses against climate change. This day will explore how protecting ecosystems, prioritizing biodiversity, and advancing nature-based climate solutions go hand in hand.
Topics include:
Wetland and forest conservation
Urban reforestation and equitable access to green spaces
Nature protection case studies
Ethical storytelling in conservation
Friday, May 2:
Urban development & mobility
Part 1: Urban development
Hub: Sycamore & Oak, Congress Heights
Sustainable cities are key to reducing emissions and improving quality of life. This day will focus on green infrastructure and the future of urban development.
Topics include:
Greening construction materials
Smart cities of the future
Inter-city collaboration
Proven urban solutions
Part 2: Mobility and water
Hub: HQO Events, Navy Yard
One sector significantly contributes to climate instability, while the other is profoundly impacted by it—and both are essential for keeping society moving. This day will dig into key challenges and momentum toward a more resilient future.
Topics include:
Water reuse and circularity
EV and AV innovations
Equitable access and public buy-in
Future-proofing the economy
How to get involved
DC Climate Week is more than just a conference — it’s an opportunity to be part of a movement. Whether you’re looking to attend, speak, or host an event, there are plenty of ways to engage.
Join us this spring and help shape the future of climate action.