1. Aviation, Ambition, and Sustainability: A Conversation with Maryam Telmesani

In this episode of CARBON x CHANGE, we host Maryam Telmesani, VP of Sustainability at Saudia Group, for a conversation about sustainability in aviation and its growing importance within Saudi Arabia’s transformation journey.

We begin with Maryam’s personal journey, from her connection to nature and curiosity about the world around her, to a career path that moved across different fields and led her into sustainability. From there, the discussion explores why sustainability has become such an important priority for Saudi Arabia today, and how aviation can contribute to the wider ambitions of Vision 2030.

The episode also looks at the role Saudia Group can play as a national carrier, not only in reducing impact, but also in shaping how sustainability is understood and communicated in the Kingdom. We also explore carbon markets, what role they may play in aviation’s decarbonization journey, and what would be needed to make them more credible and practical for the sector.

Finally, the conversation turns inward to leadership, internal culture, and how young people in Saudi Arabia can start building a career in sustainability. The episode closes with a short rapid-fire segment that gives the discussion a more personal and memorable ending.