Latest news with #UNEPFI
Cision Canada
3 days ago
- Business
- Cision Canada
New UN Protocol Charts Investment Pathway for a Sustainable Ocean Economy
Linking ocean health to prosperity, this new framework sets guidance to align financial flows and business practices with the transition to a Sustainable Ocean Economy worth $US 5.5 trillion by 2050 NEW YORK, May 28, 2025 /CNW/ -- The United Nations Global Compact and the UN Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) unveiled the Ocean Investment Protocol, a comprehensive guide designed to mobilize and scale finance for a healthy and resilient ocean that supports a strong and innovative Sustainable Ocean Economy. Building on the UN Global Compact Sustainable Ocean Principles and UNEP FI's Sustainable Blue Economy Finance Principles, the Protocol provides financial institutions, insurers and re-insurers, ocean industries, governments and development finance institutions with a clear pathway to collectively lead the growth of the Sustainable Ocean Economy to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG14 ("Life Below Water"). A thriving ocean is essential for biodiversity, food security, climate resilience, and global livelihoods. The Sustainable Ocean Economy links ocean health with prosperity, making targeted finance more urgent than ever. It is central to achieving the targets of the SDGs, the Paris Agreement and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. With ocean health inseparable from global prosperity, mounting pressures—rising ocean temperatures, overfishing, pollution, biodiversity loss, weak governance, and inequitable access to marine resources—highlight the urgency of dedicated investments and policies that safeguard marine ecosystems and drive equitable economic opportunities. The ocean economy is already equivalent in size to the world's fifth-largest economy as global markets are reliant on the ocean and its industries to support 90 per cent of global trade volume. Developing a regenerative and sustainable ocean economy is becoming increasingly central to global transitions in trade, infrastructure, energy, climate resilience, food security and regenerative tourism. The Ocean Investment Protocol responds to the critical need for swift, holistic efforts to preserve ocean ecosystems and foster growth in sustainable ocean-based sectors. It outlines actionable steps to align investments with nature- and climate-positive outcomes, fostering innovation across key ocean sectors. By 2050, the market value of a refocused, sustainable and fairly shared ocean economy is projected to reach USD$5.5 trillion. Sanda Ojiambo, CEO & Executive Director, UN Global Compact, emphasized the Protocol's focus on uniting diverse stakeholders: "The Ocean Investment Protocol underscores the transformative role that businesses, governments and development finance institutions can play in protecting our oceans for future generations. It provides a blueprint for accelerating responsible investments and ensuring that all sectors of the economy contribute to a healthy and productive ocean." "The ocean is at a tipping point—and the decisions we make now will determine the future of life below water and far beyond. The Ocean Investment Protocol equips financial actors with practical guidance to unlock the capital needed for a sustainable and inclusive ocean economy projected to reach $5.5 trillion by 2050. But finance alone is not enough. Policymakers must send clear signals and create enabling environments that make sustainable ocean investment the smart, secure, and strategic choice. This Protocol calls on public and private leaders alike to align capital with ocean health—because a thriving blue planet is a foundation for prosperity, resilience, and global progress," said Eric Usher, Head, UNEP Finance Initiative. Key Elements of the Ocean Investment Protocol to guide financial institutions, insurers and re-insurers, ocean industries, Governments and development finance institutions to manage risks and understand opportunities to increase energy security, food security and transport security, while advancing sustainable solutions, include: Holistic Guidance for banks, investors, insurers, governments and development finance institutions, enabling them to manage environmental risks while pursuing growth opportunities in sectors such as offshore renewables, sustainable seafood and climate-resilient infrastructure. Data and Disclosure recommendations, promoting greater transparency on nature-related risks and impacts and aligning with global reporting frameworks, including Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), and science-based targets. Sector-Specific Roadmaps outlining responsible financing and operational practices in shipping, tourism, fisheries, renewable energy and other key ocean industries. Policy and Regulation Support to foster investment-ready environments, highlight the importance of marine spatial planning and encourage incentives for sustainable practices. Catalytic Role of Development Finance in advancing pipeline development for the Sustainable Ocean Economy, especially in emerging markets and coastal communities most vulnerable to climate change. The release of the Ocean Investment Protocol comes at a pivotal moment, with global momentum building around a nature-positive agenda, the high-stakes race to curb carbon emissions, and accelerating action to tackle plastic and chemical pollution. Ocean-related investment needs and opportunities are growing amid momentum for a Global Plastics Treaty and a High Seas Treaty as well as implementing the SDGs, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the Paris Agreement. The Protocol is intended to galvanize multi-stakeholder collaboration and resource mobilization in the run-up to major ocean, climate and biodiversity milestones. By setting a clear vision and practical recommendations, the Protocol aims to empower all stakeholders—public and private—to scale up and accelerate actions that protect marine ecosystems, support sustainable livelihoods and drive inclusive economic development. Notes to Editors About the UN Global Compact The ambition of the UN Global Compact is to accelerate and scale the global collective impact of business by upholding the Ten Principles and delivering the SDGs through accountable companies and ecosystems that enable change. With more than 20,000 participating companies, 5 Regional Hubs, 63 Country Networks covering 80 countries and 13 Country Managers establishing Networks in 18 other countries, the UN Global Compact is the world's largest corporate sustainability initiative — one Global Compact uniting business for a better world. About UNEP FI UNEP FI brings together a global network of banks, insurers, and investors to catalyze the transition to more sustainable economies. The initiative has been connecting the UN with financial institutions worldwide to help shape the sustainable finance agenda for more than 30 years. We host the world's leading sustainability frameworks for banking and insurance to help the financial sector address sustainability risks, opportunities and impacts. UNEP FI provides practical guidance and tools to more than 500 banks and insurers that are individually implementing Principles for Responsible Banking and Principles for Sustainable Insurance on a voluntary basis. Financial institutions work with UNEP FI to advance responsible banking and sustainable insurance to support clients and customers position their businesses for the transition to a sustainable and inclusive economy. Founded in 1992, UNEP FI was the first initiative to engage the finance sector on sustainability. Today, the secretariat cultivates leadership and advances sustainable market practice through global programmes supported at a regional level across Africa & the Middle East, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America & the Caribbean and North America.
Zawya
23-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
The Premier Global ESG and Innovation Summit in Hong Kong
Sign up for FREE PASS : HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 23 April 2025 - The World Green Organisation (WGO) proudly presents ESG Xchange 2025, set to take place on May 6–7, 2025 at Hall 5G, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). This international flagship summit will bring together over 2,500 global leaders from the fields of ESG, climate finance, sustainable development, and technology innovation. This two-day summit is designed to unite high-level stakeholders, industry leaders, and innovators to drive transformative actions in sustainability and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. Event Overview The theme of this year's event is " Sustainability, ESG and Carbon Neutrality", Conference Partners and Key Supporting Orgnisations such as United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), Hong Kong Stock Exchanges (HKEX), Financial Services Development Council (FSDC), Cyberport, Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) and United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI). With a focus on fostering global sustainable development, the summit aims to empower enterprises in achieving green transformation, advance green finance, and enhance regional collaboration. Key Highlights of the Summit 1. I nternational Thought Leadership Platform Featuring speakers from ISSB, UNEP FI, TNFD, and GRI, alongside global corporate executives and policy advisors, the Main Stage and Pavilion Stages will address ESG regulatory trends, disclosure standards, and strategic foresight. 2. Technology & Innovation Exhibition Zone Showcasing over 30 local and international tech ventures in areas such as carbon neutrality, ESG data, smart cities, AI-powered sustainability, and green supply chain management. 3. Business Matching & Market Expansion Opportunities A dedicated Networking & Matchmaking Lounge will connect participants with investors, corporate buyers, accelerators, and market advisors from the Middle East, ASEAN, Europe, and Mainland China. 4. Thematic Program Tracks "Going Global" Strategy Forum for outbound enterprises "Cambridge Session" on navigating the European ESG and compliance landscape AI and Climate Tech Pitching Sessions Youth Climate Leadership Forum and the Global Carbon Neutrality Campus Alliance Exchange Core Attendee Profiles 20–30 top Mainland Chinese enterprises and over 200 representatives from Hong Kong listed companies across key industries Business diplomats from foreign consulates in Hong Kong Strategic and international business development teams Technology startups and R&D innovators Asset managers, ESG investors, and sustainable finance professionals International and regional chambers of commerce Academia and climate-focused university alliances (Carbon Neutrality leaders from top universities across Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, sharing insights on low-carbon transition and campus sustainability strategies) NGOs and youth advocates engaged in social innovation Participants can expect engaging discussions with global leaders, keynote speeches, and specialized workshops on crucial topics such as climate risk modeling, green finance standards, and digital ESG solutions. Impact of Previous Events ESG Xchange has established itself as a vital platform over the past years, successfully bringing together diverse stakeholders to collaborate on sustainable solutions. The previous edition attracted over 1,000 participants, including C-suite executives and key decision-makers, demonstrating its significance in the ESG landscape. Be Part of the Change ESG Xchange 2025 is more than a summit — it is a dynamic platform to network, co-create, and transform. Whether you're a business leader, policymaker, investor, or startup founder, this event offers unmatched access to ESG strategies, technologies, and global business opportunities. Date: May 6–7, 2025 Time: 9 A.M - 6 P.M. Venue: Hall 5G, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) Register Now: Don't miss your chance to be part of this transformative event. For more information and to register, please visit ESG Xchange 2025. Hashtag: #WGO #ESG #Innovation #Sustainability #CarbonNeutrality #ESGXCHANGE2025 #Internationalsummit #HKCEC #UNESCAP #HKEX #FSDC #Cyberport #SFC #ISSB #UNEPFI #TNFD #GRI #TNFD #SBTi #CDP #MSCI The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. World Green Organisation The World Green Organisation (WGO) is an independent non-governmental organization dedicated to environmental conservation and promoting sustainable development. Through science-based public policies, community projects, and partnerships, WGO aims to improve the economy, the environment, and livelihoods, ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for all sectors of society. For more details about the event and sponsorship opportunities, please visit: World Green Organisation
Malay Mail
23-04-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
The Premier Global ESG and Innovation Summit in Hong Kong
Sign up for FREE PASS : "Going Global" Strategy Forum for outbound enterprises "Going Global" Strategy Forum for outbound enterprises "Cambridge Session" on navigating the European ESG and compliance landscape AI and Climate Tech Pitching Sessions Youth Climate Leadership Forum and the Global Carbon Neutrality Campus Alliance Exchange 20–30 top Mainland Chinese enterprises and over 200 representatives from Hong Kong listed companies across key industries Business diplomats from foreign consulates in Hong Kong Strategic and international business development teams Technology startups and R&D innovators Asset managers, ESG investors, and sustainable finance professionals International and regional chambers of commerce Academia and climate-focused university alliances (Carbon Neutrality leaders from top universities across Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, sharing insights on low-carbon transition and campus sustainability strategies) NGOs and youth advocates engaged in social innovation HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 23 April 2025 - The World Green Organisation (WGO) proudly presentsThis international flagship summit will bring together over 2,500 global leaders from the fields of ESG, climate finance, sustainable development, and technology two-day summit is designed to unite high-level stakeholders, industry leaders, and innovators to drive transformative actions in sustainability and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) theme of this year's event isConference Partners and Key Supporting Orgnisations such as United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), Hong Kong Stock Exchanges (HKEX), Financial Services Development Council (FSDC), Cyberport, Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) and United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI). With a focus on fostering global sustainable development, the summit aims to empower enterprises in achieving green transformation, advance green finance, and enhance regional speakers from ISSB, UNEP FI, TNFD, and GRI, alongside global corporate executives and policy advisors, the Main Stage and Pavilion Stages will address ESG regulatory trends, disclosure standards, and strategic over 30 local and international tech ventures in areas such as carbon neutrality, ESG data, smart cities, AI-powered sustainability, and green supply chain management.A dedicated Networking & Matchmaking Lounge will connect participants with investors, corporate buyers, accelerators, and market advisors from the Middle East, ASEAN, Europe, and Mainland can expect engaging discussions with global leaders, keynote speeches, and specialized workshops on crucial topics such as climate risk modeling, green finance standards, and digital ESG Xchange has established itself as a vital platform over the past years, successfully bringing together diverse stakeholders to collaborate on sustainable solutions. The previous edition attracted over 1,000 participants, including C-suite executives and key decision-makers, demonstrating its significance in the ESG Xchange 2025 is more than a summit — it is a dynamic platform to network, co-create, and transform. Whether you're a business leader, policymaker, investor, or startup founder, this event offers unmatched access to ESG strategies, technologies, and global business 6–7, 20259 A.M - 6 5G, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) miss your chance to be part of this transformative event. For more information and to register, please visitHashtag: #WGO #ESG #Innovation #Sustainability #CarbonNeutrality #ESGXCHANGE2025 #Internationalsummit #HKCEC #UNESCAP #HKEX #FSDC #Cyberport #SFC #ISSB #UNEPFI #TNFD #GRI #TNFD #SBTi #CDP #MSCI The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. World Green Organisation The World Green Organisation (WGO) is an independent non-governmental organization dedicated to environmental conservation and promoting sustainable development. Through science-based public policies, community projects, and partnerships, WGO aims to improve the economy, the environment, and livelihoods, ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for all sectors of society. For more details about the event and sponsorship opportunities, please visit:
The Sun
23-04-2025
- Business
- The Sun
The Premier Global ESG and Innovation Summit in Hong Kong
HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 23 April 2025 - The World Green Organisation (WGO) proudly presents ESG Xchange 2025, set to take place on May 6–7, 2025 at Hall 5G, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). This international flagship summit will bring together over 2,500 global leaders from the fields of ESG, climate finance, sustainable development, and technology innovation. This two-day summit is designed to unite high-level stakeholders, industry leaders, and innovators to drive transformative actions in sustainability and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. Event Overview The theme of this year's event is 'Sustainability, ESG and Carbon Neutrality', Conference Partners and Key Supporting Orgnisations such as United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), Hong Kong Stock Exchanges (HKEX), Financial Services Development Council (FSDC), Cyberport, Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) and United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI). With a focus on fostering global sustainable development, the summit aims to empower enterprises in achieving green transformation, advance green finance, and enhance regional collaboration. Key Highlights of the Summit 1. International Thought Leadership Platform Featuring speakers from ISSB, UNEP FI, TNFD, and GRI, alongside global corporate executives and policy advisors, the Main Stage and Pavilion Stages will address ESG regulatory trends, disclosure standards, and strategic foresight. 2. Technology & Innovation Exhibition Zone Showcasing over 30 local and international tech ventures in areas such as carbon neutrality, ESG data, smart cities, AI-powered sustainability, and green supply chain management. 3. Business Matching & Market Expansion Opportunities A dedicated Networking & Matchmaking Lounge will connect participants with investors, corporate buyers, accelerators, and market advisors from the Middle East, ASEAN, Europe, and Mainland China. 4. Thematic Program Tracks • 'Going Global' Strategy Forum for outbound enterprises • 'Cambridge Session' on navigating the European ESG and compliance landscape • AI and Climate Tech Pitching Sessions • Youth Climate Leadership Forum and the Global Carbon Neutrality Campus Alliance Exchange Core Attendee Profiles • 20–30 top Mainland Chinese enterprises and over 200 representatives from Hong Kong listed companies across key industries • Business diplomats from foreign consulates in Hong Kong • Strategic and international business development teams • Technology startups and R&D innovators • Asset managers, ESG investors, and sustainable finance professionals • International and regional chambers of commerce • Academia and climate-focused university alliances (Carbon Neutrality leaders from top universities across Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, sharing insights on low-carbon transition and campus sustainability strategies) • NGOs and youth advocates engaged in social innovation Participants can expect engaging discussions with global leaders, keynote speeches, and specialized workshops on crucial topics such as climate risk modeling, green finance standards, and digital ESG solutions. Impact of Previous Events ESG Xchange has established itself as a vital platform over the past years, successfully bringing together diverse stakeholders to collaborate on sustainable solutions. The previous edition attracted over 1,000 participants, including C-suite executives and key decision-makers, demonstrating its significance in the ESG landscape. Be Part of the Change ESG Xchange 2025 is more than a summit — it is a dynamic platform to network, co-create, and transform. Whether you're a business leader, policymaker, investor, or startup founder, this event offers unmatched access to ESG strategies, technologies, and global business opportunities. Date: May 6–7, 2025 Time: 9 A.M - 6 P.M. Venue: Hall 5G, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
