Asia spurred into action on sustainability

More than 400 clients from nearly 20 countries attended BNP Paribas' Sustainable Future Forum in Singapore – with ESG under the spotlight in Asia-Pacific.


BNP Paribas hosted its inaugural Sustainable Future Forum in Singapore in late October, bringing together leading corporates, institutions and development experts to discuss and debate the opportunities and challenges arising from the $US5 trillion to $US7 trillion required to fund the United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Topics discussed included: how the SDGs can be used to guide business purpose and unlock shareholder value; the role of private sector capital in financing sustainable economic development; and the evolution of green finance from a “nice to have” to a fundamental component of the financial system we need.

BNP Paribas’ Chief Executive Officer for Asia Pacific, Eric Raynaud said: “With China’s clear signaling at September’s G20 meeting in Hangzhou that Green Finance will play an increasing role in its funding mix, we see Asia as poised for a major evolution in how companies and financial institutions look at sustainability. These issues have moved well beyond Corporate Social Responsibility departments and our clients are now looking at how they can align business purpose around a more long-term approach, for long-term profitability.”


Cherie Blair campaigner for women's rights
Cherie Blair campaigner for women’s rights
Speakers included prominent campaigner for women’s education and equality Cherie Blair, Assistant Secretary General, Deputy Executive Director, Policy & Programme for UN Women Dr Yannick Glemarec, UN Environment Programme Assistant Secretary General Elliott Harris and representatives from leading Asian corporations and financial institutions.



Sustainable Future Forum Brochure