Powering progress in a divided world

Asia Pacific is a vital engine for the global economy, having contributed 60 per cent of global GDP over the past decade. However, this has come with increased emissions and profound imbalances, with climate change heightening vulnerability and multiplying disaster risks.  

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The region is thus contending with a ‘triple crisis’ as it has to manage climate impacts while contending with escalating debt and biodiversity loss, according to a recent report by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific. 

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In response, countries have stepped up commitments to climate action through improved Nationally Determined Contributions. Yet many in Asia need to move beyond ambitious target-setting to implementation of those plans, underpinned by credible financial and investment drivers, while countering the global trend of market recalibrating – and in some cases backpedalling – on climate commitments.

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This will require directing capital towards long-term climate adaptation and disaster resilience, while addressing emerging risks from nature loss, waste and water and food security.  At the same time, mitigating emissions through a coal phase-out and renewable energy expansion must continue.

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Strengthening governance for artificial intelligence, climate technology and digital economy adoption is also paramount, as policymakers and innovators increasingly rely on them to inspire sustainable solutions.  

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Now in its ninth year, our flagship Unlocking capital for sustainability summit will convene leaders from government, finance and industry to chart robust and resilient pathways for the region and the world.  

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Hosted by Eco-Business and UNEP FI, Asia’s premier sustainable finance forum will span six locations – Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand and Singapore – focusing on implementation and the partnerships needed to accelerate this urgent transition.