At Global Choices, we believe in the power of collective action to address the global environmental crisis, and our Arctic Angels network is filled with remarkable individuals driving impactful change.
In this email interview, we connected with Dr. Imene Tabet, a passionate advocate for sustainability and financial equity, whose journey has been deeply shaped by her background in economics and her drive to create a just transition for marginalized communities. From her early interest in development economics to her innovative work on sustainable finance solutions for SMEs in the Global South, Imene’s story is one of determination, purpose, and a commitment to holistic approaches to sustainability. Through this exchange, she shares insights on her personal journey, her involvement with the Arctic Angels, and her vision for creating an inclusive, sustainable future.
- How did you get involved in sustainability work?
My journey into sustainability began during my economics degree.. I was fascinated by development economics and the potential for financial activities in significantly improve people’s lives. Having lived most of my life in oil-based economies, I couldn’t help but wonder about their long-term sustainability – economically, socially and environmentally- and it all seemed interconnected. It sparked my curiosity to explore ethical alternatives that consider environmental welfare.
During my Masters, I focused on developing financial products to address sustainability gaps. But as I delved deeper, I realized that the challenges we face are far more complex that I initially thought- creating banking products for solar panel financing alone wouldn’t solve our world’s environmental crisis.
This realization drove my passion to explore broader, more holistic approaches to sustainability. During my PhD, I started working with sustainability-focused NGOs and industry projects. That’s when I began to see the tangible impact we can have on sustainability practices.
- Could you briefly explain your interest in creating equity and sustainability through finance?
My interest in leveraging finance for equity and sustainability is deeply rooted in the concept of a Just Transition. I’m particularly passionate about empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Global South. These businesses are often overlooked despite being the back-bone of local economies and communities. By creating financial tools and frameworks that support these SMEs, we can drive sustainable development in a way that’s inclusive and equitable. It’s about making sure no one gets left behind as we work towards a more sustainable world.
- How did you hear about Global Choices? What does it mean to you to be a part of the Arctic Angels and the support the network provides you?
I’ve heard about Global choices from the amazing Inge Ralph during a board retreat for the Responsible Finance and Investment Foundation. To me, being part of the Arctic Angels network is about connecting with like-hearted individuals who share a passion for creating positive change in the world.
It’s incredibly inspiring and empowering to be surrounded by a community of driven, innovative, and genuine activists who are all working towards a common goal, each in their own-beautifully diverse-capacity. The unity this network provides fuels my conviction for sustainability and always gives me hope in knowing that there are many who are constantly trying to do good for the world. This sense of community and shared purpose is incredibly motivating and empowering.
- What issues or projects are you currently working on that you would want to tell our community about?
I’m currently focused on two main projects that I’m really excited about:
- Developing frameworks for measuring financed emissions in emerging markets. This work is crucial for banks to understand and reduce their carbon footprint and driving their strategies towards sustainable practices across various sectors.
- Creating resources and tools to help SMEs navigate the often-complex sustainability landscape. By empowering these businesses to embrace sustainable practices, we’re promoting a just transition and ensuring that smaller players aren’t left behind as larger corporations establish sustainability systems.
Both projects are about filling the gaps in our current approaches to sustainability and ensure that we’re creating inclusive, equitable solutions. It’s challenging work, but incredibly rewarding!
- What would you tell a younger version of you who wants to take action to protect the climate?
To my younger self, I would say: Eman, never underestimate the power of your passion and good heart. You’ll see its fruits in due time, don’t rush it. Every action, no matter how small it may seem, contributes to the greater good. Stay curious, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo. Your voice and actions matter more than you know. And always know that you are never alone.
- Why does the protection of the Arctic matter to you?
The protection of the Arctic matters to me because it embodies our role as stewards of this planet. When I think about the Arctic, I’m reminded of a profound question: What have we done on Earth as trustees of all its goodness, beauty, and resources?
The Arctic is not just a remote, icy landscape – it’s a critical component of our global ecosystem and a clear indicator for climate change. Protecting it means preserving a vital part of our planet’s natural balance, safeguarding biodiversity, and taking responsibility for the impact of our actions on a global scale. It’s about making sure that future generations can inherit a world as beautiful and diverse as the one we’ve been entrusted with.
At Global Choices, we are dedicated to safeguarding the Arctic and our planet’s Global Commons, but we can’t do it alone. Your support helps us continue vital work to address the Ice Crisis and create sustainable, equitable solutions for our shared future. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference. Join us in protecting the Arctic and ensuring a livable planet for generations to come.
