Countdown

Countdown is an event held in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, that has run across multiple editions in 2019, 2020, and 2021. The speaker lineup reflects a focus on global challenges including climate action, urban sustainability, and social impact. Notable speakers have included UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, climate architect Christiana Figueres, and venture capitalist John Doerr. The event has also featured environmental scientist Johan Rockström, photographer Stephen Wilkes, and novelist Elif Shafak, among other speakers from diverse fields including technology, governance, and the arts. The mix of speakers suggests the event addresses interconnected issues spanning climate change, innovation, and societal transformation.