During the “2024 ESG Global Leaders Conference” held in Shanghai, international organization representatives highlighted China’s significant role in the global renewable energy sector, emphasizing its contribution to substantial technological advancements and cost reductions in the global climate transition.
Shilan He, Head of ESG and Climate Business for MSCI in the Asia-Pacific region, noted, “Asia’s importance in the global economy is increasingly recognized as a key driver of climate-related innovation. China has emerged as a major player in the renewable energy arena.” She stressed that climate change knows no borders; only through united efforts can we achieve decarbonization goals and ensure a sustainable future.
“Responsible business practices have become imperative for companies today,” said Chang-Hee Lee, Director of the ILO’s China and Mongolia office. He added that this is not optional but a necessity, as businesses implementing responsible practices can reap both economic and social benefits. “It’s encouraging to see China taking steps to ensure responsible business conduct within society.”
Adair Turner, Chairman of the Energy Transitions Commission, expressed confidence in achieving net-zero emissions worldwide, attributing this optimism to technological advancements. “Take solar photovoltaic (PV) cells, for instance—over the past 50 years, the cost per watt of solar PV power has decreased by 99.9%, largely thanks to the contributions of Chinese companies. China has been instrumental in driving significant technological progress and cost reductions in key areas such as electric vehicles, batteries, and solar energy.”
David Atkin, CEO of the UN’s Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), remarked, “China is rapidly advancing policy and regulatory reforms to better align the financial sector with national sustainability and carbon neutrality goals.”
PRI currently has over 5,300 signatories, managing assets exceeding $128 trillion. Atkin noted that many Chinese signatories are actively engaged in PRI’s Nature Positive initiative, including the country’s largest public fund management companies, showcasing the vision of Chinese investors toward a low-carbon future.
The “2024 ESG Global Leaders Conference” took place from October 16 to 18 in Shanghai, with the theme “Promoting Global ESG Cooperation, Development, and Win-Win Outcomes.”
