Publications

INSIGHT REPORT

Pioneering the Future: Space

Technologies Poised to Revolutionize

Exploration and Economy by 2035

September 2026

FACTSHEETS

Pioneering the Future: Space

Technologies Poised to Revolutionize Exploration and Economy by 2035

June 2026

WHITE PAPER

Future of Space Law:

Operationalizing Space Governance

March 2026

REPORT

Clear Orbit, Secure Future:

 A Call to Action on Space Debris

Jan 2026

WHITE PAPER

The Future of Space Law

Insights from the ATS, UNCLOS, and ITU Frameworks

December 2025

WHITE PAPER

The Future of Space Law: 

The Evolving Dynamics of Air and Space Regulation

 September  2025

The Future Of Space Law

News

Centre for Space Futures, Novaspace and SpaceTech Gulf  Sign Agreement to Develop Global Space Capability Mapping Dashboard

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia , 23 Jun 2026|  Press Release

Clear Orbit, Secure Future: A Call to Action on Space Debris

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 26 Jan 2026 | Press Release

Centre for Space Futures Holds Workshop with Participation of 40 Global Experts

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 05 Dec 2025 | Press Release

Centre for Space Futures Releases White Paper on 'The Future of Space Law'

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 12 Sep 2025 | Press Release

The Board of Directors of the Centre for Space Futures Endorses Its Strategic Direction

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 26 May 2025 | Press Release

Saudi Space Agency to Launch the Centre for Space Futures with the World Economic Forum

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 29 April | Press Release

5 ways we can tackle growing risks from rocket bodies in orbit

Dec 09, 2025 | Economic Growth, Stories

Read More

Forum Agenda

Forum Videos

VIDEO

Press Conference: Centre for Space Futures in Riyadh

The World Economic Forum's Special Meeting, April 29, 2024

VIDEO

The Purpose of Astronauts at Davos 2024

World Economic Forum , March 9, 2024

VIDEO

PortWatch: Monitoring Trade Disruptions from Space

World Economic Forum , Dec 18, 2023

VIDEO

India's Moon Mission Triumph: Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj's Insights

World Economic Forum , Aug 23, 2023

VIDEO

Space Exploration is Back at Davos 2023

World Economic Forum , Feb 16, 2023

Forum Publications

Strategic Intelligence Insights

The insurance sector is vital in combating climate change, with potential costs reaching $38 trillion annually by 2050. It can serve as a model for innovation in sustainability and profitability. By increasing insurance coverage, the sector can foster a virtuous cycle that enhances resilience against climate risks. Insurers manage substantial global capital, enabling them to direct funds toward sustainable initiatives and support global goals. Historical precedents show that insurance can improve societal risk management through proactive measures, transforming challenges into opportunities for sustainable development and reduced inequality.
ICT, Financial services, Health
Insurance and asset managers can trigger a virtuous cycle for climate action
In 2026, the digital asset landscape is poised for significant evolution driven by enhanced regulatory clarity, increased asset tokenization, and the convergence of traditional finance (TradFi) with decentralized finance (DeFi). Regulatory advancements, particularly in regions like Singapore, the UAE, and the US, support the responsible scaling of digital innovations. Stablecoins are emerging as crucial links between fiat and decentralized systems, while tokenization is set to expand market access by digitizing various asset classes. The integration of blockchain technology by conventional financial institutions further facilitates improvements in transaction efficiency and transparency, marking a pivotal year for the adoption and infrastructure of digital assets.
Financial services, ICT
A digital economy at an inflection point: what to expect for digital assets in 2026
A global industrial transformation is in progress, driven by shifting geopolitics that prioritize energy security and competitiveness. Current investment in industrial transformation is insufficient, at only $30-50 billion annually, hindering essential decarbonization projects. Well-organized industrial clusters play a crucial role by aggregating demand, sharing infrastructure, and coordinating investments, making transformation more feasible while preserving jobs. The World Economic Forum’s Transitioning Industrial Clusters initiative demonstrates the potential for significant CO2e abatement and economic contributions. The report provides insights on organizing clusters and structuring risk-sharing, serving as a resource for policy-makers, financiers, and industry leaders pursuing sustainable industrial transformation.
Belgium, Benin, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Ethiopia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Mozambique, Netherlands, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Senegal, Singapore, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, China, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Zimbabwe | Financial services, ICT, Health, Education
From Blueprint to Reality: A Stronger Business Case for Shared Energy Infrastructure
AI and circularity are essential for future material innovation, driven by the need for efficient materials and systems that recycle existing ones amid climate challenges. The transition to net-zero emissions is fundamentally a materials transition, requiring approximately 6.5 billion tonnes of materials by 2050. AI can revolutionize materials science by identifying new materials faster through generative models and autonomous labs. The emerging ecosystem includes foundational models, robotic labs, enterprise platforms, and improved experimental hardware. Innovations promise advancements across energy, mobility, consumer goods, and electronics, potentially transforming material development from serendipitous discovery to a computation-guided process.
Education
AI and circularity will be key to the future of materials in the AI age
Transformative science is essential for addressing global challenges like climate change, health crises, and resource scarcity. Its potential can be fully realized through investment, trust, and open access to research outcomes. Collaborative, open science enables cross-border cooperation and builds a common knowledge base, enhancing resilience and fostering innovative approaches to shared problems. By maintaining transparency and effectively communicating scientific findings, trust in science can be rebuilt, allowing for evidence-based policymaking that meets the needs of society. These principles underpin the establishment of the Frontiers Science House at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026.
ICT, Health, Education
Five reasons transformative science needs to be open to the world
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is essential for reducing industrial emissions, particularly in ammonia and fertilizer production, which is crucial for global food security. As global temperatures are expected to rise above 1.5°C within a decade, CCS offers a scalable solution to mitigate these emissions by capturing CO₂ generated in processes like steam methane reforming. Yara's plant in the Netherlands exemplifies the practical application of CCS, aiming to capture 800,000 tons of CO₂ annually for permanent seabed storage. This technology not only lowers emissions but enables the production of low-carbon fertilizers, addressing both climate and food production needs.
How to scale carbon capture and storage and turn climate targets into action
Rising global electricity demand necessitates improvements in power infrastructure, which can be achieved economically through artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies. AI tools can enhance existing grid performance and unlock hidden capacity, crucial for strengthening energy security. Transition fuels, such as liquefied natural gas, must be balanced with renewable sources to meet demand while ensuring cost-effectiveness and regulatory support. Optimizing energy use by integrating digitalization can increase efficiency and extend asset lifespan, enabling countries to achieve significant production gains without extensive infrastructure investment. The key to sustainable energy security lies in enhancing connections among assets, data, and expertise.
Africa | Financial services, ICT, Education
Unlocking hidden power: Using AI to drive efficiency and improve energy security
Social entrepreneurs and innovators, organized by the Schwab Foundation, have positively impacted over 950 million lives globally while mobilizing more than $1 billion to tackle challenges in healthcare, education, climate action, and economic inclusion. Facing funding cuts and cash-flow issues, 82% of these innovators adapted by diversifying income sources and adopting blended financing models. The foundation fosters collaboration, unites over 510 members from 190 countries, and awards outstanding innovators annually. The movement pivots towards a sustainable future, emphasizing empathy in innovation and viewing underserved communities as co-creators of change.
Education
How 510 Social Entrepreneurs and Innovators have improved the lives of 950 million people worldwide
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) account for approximately 90% of global businesses, creating most jobs and contributing 50% of global GDP. Despite their vital role, many small businesses fail due to a lack of access to capital and digital skills. Policymakers are urged to enhance financial education, support digital payment adoption, and improve access to funding. Initiatives such as Visa's training programs and partnerships aim to upskill entrepreneurs and promote digital transformation. Addressing these challenges is crucial for economic resilience and driving growth, particularly in emerging markets where SMEs are vital for job creation.
Burkina Faso, Egypt, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda | Financial services, ICT, Education
Driving global growth through the power of small business
Global electricity waste exceeds hundreds of billions annually, driven by a rise in demand and renewable energy fluctuations. AI technologies are essential for improving thermal and building efficiency, reducing emissions, and enhancing grid flexibility. Collaboration across industries and workforce upskilling are crucial for advancing demand-side innovation. Trane Technologies aims to cut customer emissions by 1 gigaton while optimizing energy management in buildings and data centers. Key initiatives include AI-driven HVAC solutions that significantly lower energy use and partnerships for thermal management in AI factories. Efficient energy demand management promises substantial returns for customers and the environment.
ICT, Education
How to rethink energy demand to build a sustainable, resilient future
China has been a significant driver of clean technology adoption in developing countries, primarily through the provision of affordable solar panels and electric vehicles (EVs). A recent survey revealed that over 80% of participants in developing regions express interest in these technologies, with particularly high interest in sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America for Chinese-made products. China's clean tech influence is bolstered by its soft power strategy, showcased at global forums like COP30, which contrasts with perceptions of Western countries. This shift indicates a growing geopolitical landscape where China's clean technology leadership may reshape international relations.
Egypt, Taiwan, China
China’s clean tech charm offensive wins Global South hearts and minds
Solar panels, crucial to renewable energy, present a waste management challenge as up to 250 million tonnes of solar waste are projected by 2050. Most panels are not designed for repair or recycling, leading to valuable materials like silver and copper being lost in current recycling processes. The design of solar panels needs to shift towards modular, disassemblable structures to enable repair and extend their lifespan. Initiatives like the EU's Digital Product Passport will aid in providing critical information for end-of-life handling, promoting a circular economy in the solar industry.
The solar boom has a dirty secret. Here’s how to avoid another mountain of waste that can’t be recycled
Fusion energy has the potential to become a scalable, zero-carbon baseload energy source, essential for meeting the rising global electricity demand projected to increase by 40% in the next decade. Driven by advances in fusion technology and increasing investments, fusion could support evolving needs in a world where electrification, AI, and industrial reshoring are creating unprecedented energy demands. Fusion power offers advantages such as high energy output with minimal fuel, safety from meltdowns, and reduced regulatory burdens. It could enhance energy security by minimizing dependence on finite resources and mitigating geopolitical tensions, fostering economic opportunities in sectors like manufacturing and data centers.
Education
How fusion energy and AI can power the next era of energy demand
Real estate is undergoing significant transformation as 90% of companies adopt AI solutions, yet success hinges more on people than technology. While many organizations launch AI initiatives, only 5% achieve their objectives due to a lack of strategic planning and readiness. The industry's workforce faces gaps in AI training, contributing to ineffective tech strategies. Successful companies invest in human capital and exhibit strong leadership, fostering innovation and organizational resilience. Leaders must build capacity to adapt, ensuring long-term success in navigating the evolving landscape of AI and market demands.
Education
Why real estate's AI success depends more on people than technology
The Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF), launched by the Brazilian government during COP30, aims to finance the conservation and restoration of tropical rainforests through blended finance. While it seeks to address the funding gap in forest finance required to meet Rio Convention targets, significant challenges remain. Germany and other European nations have pledged support, but overall forest finance is insufficient compared to what is needed. The TFFF plans to mobilize USD 125 billion through long-term loans and private investments. It incentivizes maintaining low deforestation rates, providing payments per hectare for standing forests. Effective forest management must balance carbon sequestration with biodiversity and local rights considerations.
Financial services
The Tropical Forest Forever Facility and Its Role in International Forest Finance
Cyber risk is rapidly evolving, driven by AI advancements, geopolitical instability, and rising cyber-enabled fraud, which has now surpassed ransomware as the foremost concern for CEOs. In 2025, 73% of executives reported being impacted by cyber-enabled fraud. As organizations struggle with declining confidence in national cyber preparedness, collaboration and shared intelligence become essential. Key challenges identified include the evolving threat landscape, vulnerabilities in supply chains, and shortages in cybersecurity expertise. AI plays a dual role as both a defensive asset and a source of new threats, shifting concerns towards data leaks and misuse.
Africa | ICT, Financial services, Education
Cyber risk in 2026: What executives must know about AI, fraud, geopolitics and more
The Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2026 analyzes emerging cybersecurity trends influencing global economies and societies. Key factors include accelerated AI adoption, geopolitical fragmentation, and increasing cyber inequity. As attacks become more sophisticated, organizations and governments must adapt to persistent challenges and capability gaps. The report highlights AI's dual role in enhancing defenses and escalating attacks, while geopolitical concerns significantly shape cyber risk strategies. Notably, a growing number of organizations are prioritizing AI security, reflecting the urgency of addressing vulnerabilities. Strengthening collective cyber resilience is vital for economic and societal stability amid these evolving risks.
Chad, Georgia, Guinea, Mali | Financial services, Health, Education, ICT
Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2026
AI-enabled agricultural intelligence is essential for addressing the challenge of feeding a projected global population of nearly 10 billion by 2050. This approach combines data, technology, and agronomic expertise to enhance productivity without expanding farmland. Current challenges include rising costs, market volatility, and extreme weather, leading to a significant decline in the number of farms. Despite barriers such as a digital divide and high initial costs, innovations in AI and digital tools are revolutionizing farming practices. These technologies enable precise farming through advanced data analysis, improving crop yields, sustainability, and profitability while ensuring farmers maintain control over their data.
Education
How AI is enabling agricultural intelligence and revolutionizing farming
New, data-driven energy technologies are transforming the energy landscape into decentralized, omni-directional networks. This shift is crucial for addressing the growing energy demand in the face of infrastructure constraints. As artificial intelligence (AI) fuels economic growth while consuming vast amounts of energy, optimizing energy systems for efficiency and resilience becomes paramount. Integration of digital intelligence, IoT, and advanced AI can enhance energy consumption, reduce waste, and foster autonomous energy systems. These innovations are essential for sustainable growth in a volatile geopolitical environment, ensuring networks can adapt to disruptions while delivering greener electricity.
ICT, Education
Unleashing energy technology to create a sustainable, resilient future
India and Europe have a significant opportunity to form a strategic partnership amidst global political fragmentation. Both regions, anchored in a rules-based order, share goals of sustainable growth. India's economy is rapidly expanding, driven by a young workforce, extensive infrastructure developments, and significant reforms, positioning it as a global growth engine. In turn, Europe, rich in innovation and advanced manufacturing capabilities, offers essential expertise. This collaboration can create value by combining India's scalability with Europe's precision and capital, addressing common challenges like supply chain dependencies and enhancing resilience in a volatile global environment.
Afghanistan, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, France, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Kenya, Latvia, Madagascar, Mauritius, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Netherlands, Pakistan, Peru, Poland, Russian Federation, Rwanda, Senegal, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom | Health
India and Europe have a generational opportunity to forge a strategic partnership. Here's why