Biography: Andrea Vena brings over 30 years of expertise in the space sector, spanning both industry and institutional roles. With a degree in Electronic Engineering and a Master in Telecommunication Systems, he began his career at Alenia Spazio, now Leonardo. Since joining ESA in 2000, Andrea has held strategic leadership roles, including Head of the Corporate Strategic Planning Office (2006) and Head of the Corporate Development Office (2016), where he drove the organization’s strategic evolution. Under his leadership, ESA launched transformative initiatives in strategic planning,corporate risk management and knowledge management, that set industry benchmarks. Appointed Chief Climate and Sustainability Officer in 2021, Andrea leads ESA’s Green Agenda, aligning the agency's activities with the Paris Agreement and the European Green Deal, fostering sustainability practices across the space sector. 

Passionate about innovation, Andrea champions the role of space technologies in addressing global climate challenges and the value of space exploration for the future of humankind on Earth. An advocate of international collaboration, Andrea works across borders to promote sustainability through the promotion of the Statement for a

Responsible Space Sector.

Title:  "ESA's Role in Achieving a Sustainable Future: how Space accelerates Climate Action"

Abstract:  Amid a growing climate crisis, space-based solutions present unique opportunities to advance global climate action. This session aims to discuss on how ESA leverages space technologies to address environmental challenges and foster sustainability.

Some ESA’s climate initiatives will be showcased, such as climate monitoring programs, cutting-edge Earth observation missions, and collaborative efforts.