Asia Sustainability Conference

With 21 of the world's 30 largest cities and half the world's middle-class population situated in Asia, according to UN data, the region has emerged as a global economic powerhouse, driven by economic growth, rapid urbanisation and industrialisation, provision of education and healthcare, as well as investment in digital innovation and technology.

Despite Asia’s impressive growth story, little attention and investment have been spent on environmental and social issues such as gender equality, air pollution, climate change, safe water, and decent work.  

To address some of these issues, United Nations members crafted a shared blueprint to achieve peace and prosperity for people and the planet. The agenda consists of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with set targets that will help transform our world for the better by 2030. 

Sustainable investing, measured by environmental, social and governance factors, has resonated with more corporates, banks and investors as society demands a wider application of ethics in investing, while regulators impose disclosure requirements on the subject.

The coronavirus pandemic is shining a spotlight on sustainability practises at some of the world’s biggest companies as they outperform the broader markets and attract more fund inflows. As coronavirus strengthens the case for sustainable investing, SDGs should be on Asia’s agenda; putting people and the planet first. Now is the time to embrace sustainable investment. So, with less than ten years to go, how will we get there? Against this backdrop, Asia Sustainability 2020 will bring together family-based businesses, entrepreneurs, business owners and investment professionals to debate and discuss the challenges in achieving SDGs in Asia and the initiatives and investments that are needed to accelerate progress to create a positive impact on the world.