On October 26, 2024, Zhejiang University and Singapore Management University co-hosted the "Technological Innovation, Green Finance, and Sustainable Development Forum" in Hanghzou, at the School of Management, Zhejiang University. It brought together thought leaders, academics and industry professionals to discuss the growing importance of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices in China’s development landscape. With a focus on green transformation, the forum explored how businesses and the financial sector can contribute to sustainable productivity and quality economic growth.

The event began with a welcome from Zhejiang University Vice President ZHOU Jianghong and an opening address from Timothy Clark, Provost of Singapore Management University, which set the tone for a stimulating Saturday afternoon of insight and discussion.

Key presentations from renowned experts such as ZHANG Bei from the Research Bureau of the People’s Bank of China and Shawn A. Cole from Harvard Business School covered important topics such as transition finance and sustainable investing, presenting the latest research and real-world practices in green finance.

The forum concluded with two panel discussions on integrating ESG into talent development and ways to enable green finance transformation. The panelists emphasized the need for innovative talent and cross-sector collaboration to tackle sustainability challenges. The discussions underscored the strong commitment of academia, industry and finance to a future where economic success is aligned with environmental and social responsibility.

- We would like to thank all participants, speakers and organizers for their contributions and their presence at the Forum. Your insights and commitment are key to advancing the dialog on sustainable development and green finance.