Angus Clelland

The second panel of the summit explored the complexities, challenges, and opportunities in ESG integration, diving into how businesses can move beyond viewing ESG as a compliance burden. Panelists Sébastien Thevoux Chabuel, Carol Sirou, and Daniel Bouzas shared their views on how regulatory landscapes, data utility, and sector-specific standards are shaping the ESG journey, comparing European and US approaches, and reflecting on the potential for meaningful ESG action over the next few years.

Comparing Regulatory Landscapes
Sébastien set the stage by reflecting on the enthusiastic momentum around ESG before COP26, when regulation wasn’t as prominent a focus. Today, however, with regulations expanding, investors are faced with increasingly complex regulatory landscapes. Sébastien highlighted the differences between Europe and the US, noting that Europe is often criticised for over-regulation, yet paradoxically lags behind the US in enforcement. This disparity, he suggested, creates a challenge for investors, who may struggle with confidence in ESG standards’ efficacy. The need for balanced, enforceable standards that go beyond compliance to drive measurable impact was a recurring theme throughout the discussion.

Navigating the ESG “Teenage Crisis”
Carol offered a compelling analogy, describing the current state of ESG as a “teenage crisis.” She noted that as ESG evolves, businesses need to shift their mindset from viewing compliance as a burden to leveraging ESG metrics to improve overall performance. Carol focused on the complexities of ESG data, where existing quantitative scores often fail to provide actionable insights. This is where the upcoming EU ESG rating system could play a role, enabling more meaningful, comparable assessments of corporate sustainability. Carol also discussed companies’ reluctance to establish ESG benchmarks, noting that fear of scrutiny often holds them back. However, she predicted that with targeted education and a focus on relevant key performance indicators (KPIs), the next 3-5 years would bring real progress in integrating ESG standards that drive results.

Challenges in Implementing ESG Standards
Daniel addressed the varied approaches to ESG within sectors, contrasting the paths taken by companies like Schneider Electric and APB. He explained that while progress on ESG implementation is still emerging, frameworks like the Corporate Finance Disclosure Regulation (CFDR) are instrumental in raising awareness of greenwashing risks. Daniel highlighted Europe’s unique reliance on banks for corporate finance, with 60-70% of companies’ external funding coming from them. This reliance makes sector-specific standards essential, he argued, as they guide both banks and corporations in aligning with ESG goals and fostering comparability. Such standards, Daniel suggested, will play a critical role in ensuring that ESG integration is not just a compliance checkbox but a genuine driver of change across industries.

The Path Forward: Embracing ESG as an Integrated Business Strategy
The panel concluded with a shared outlook on the “teenage crisis” that ESG finds itself in: a phase where rapid growth and complexity require companies to move beyond simple compliance. While regulations will continue to expand, the real task lies in ensuring these frameworks promote proactive, impactful ESG actions.

As Carol, Sébastien, and Daniel all emphasised, the coming years will be critical. Companies must engage with ESG not merely to meet standards but to transform their approach to sustainable performance. For leaders, this means focusing on transparency, harnessing quality data, and establishing relevant, comparable benchmarks to bridge the gap between compliance and performance.

Key Takeaways

• Enforcement vs. Over-Regulation: Europe faces criticism for heavy regulation yet lags behind the US in enforcement, creating challenges for investors seeking efficacy.
• Moving Beyond Compliance: Viewing ESG as a tool for performance improvement rather than a burden will be crucial as regulations increase.
• Sector-Specific Standards: With banking as a major source of external funding in Europe, sector standards are essential for guiding and enabling effective ESG action.

As ESG matures, businesses will need to embrace this “teenage crisis” phase, evolving towards a future where sustainable practices are fully embedded in business strategy, driving long-term value for stakeholders and communities alike.

David Pitt-Watson led an insightful panel discussion with Anne Sophie Castelnau, ING, Timothee Mase Dubois, Schneider Electric and Sinthuja Yogarajah, Federated Hermes on integrating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles into finance. The panel’s focus was clear: how can ESG drive real value across diverse sectors?

Each speaker brought perspectives from their respective fields—banking, asset management, and electrical equipment manufacturing—illustrating the diverse ways ESG is embedded in different sectors. Timothée Macé Dubois shared that in the electrical equipment sector, companies like Schneider Electric are at the forefront of decarbonisation and energy efficiency. By making sustainability a core pillar, they are setting new standards in responsible manufacturing.

Anne Sophie Castelnau highlighted ING’s approach within the banking industry, noting that sustainability goes hand-in-hand with customer experience. Banks are increasingly financing clients who are transitioning to green practices and consciously avoiding fossil fuel investments. This demonstrates how sustainability can shape lending strategies, driving significant environmental impact.

In asset management, Sinthuja Yogarajah explained the shift from traditional ESG investment to responsible investing. Asset managers are now using active ownership and stewardship to influence company practices, aligning capital with sustainability-focused transitions and promoting long-term change.

Throughout, the panel examined the need for transparency and reliable data to support effective ESG integration. Regulation’s role in guiding sustainable finance was also acknowledged, yet they noted that genuine, hands-on implementation remains the most critical factor for impact.

Key Takeaways

• ESG in electrical equipment centres on decarbonisation and energy efficiency.
• Banks, such as ING, are financing green transitions and shifting away from fossil fuel investments.
• Asset managers are moving towards responsible investing to drive company-level sustainability changes.

The discussion underscored that aligning profitability with sustainability is challenging yet essential. This balance, supported by transparent data and practical actions, is necessary to make ESG integration a meaningful part of financial strategy.

In the final SDG Hive session led by Graham Burnside, CO-founder of the UK Islamic Finance Council, experts examined the intersection of Islamic finance and the climate crisis.

Islamic Sustainable Finance Update

Omar Shaikh, Founder, UK Islamic Finance Council began by explaining that over the last few decades, Islamic finance has evolved into a unique, faith-based alternative within the global financial system, guided by ethical principles such as the prohibition of interest and the commitment to do no harm.

Traditionally, the industry has focused on negative screening and alternative products, but there is a growing imperative to address sustainability more proactively. Recent initiatives, including the UK Islamic Finance Council’s global financing task force, aim to embed sustainability into Islamic finance practices. This shift reflects a broader movement towards ethical investing, recognizing the importance of animal welfare, biodiversity, and climate change within investment strategies.

As demand for responsible investing rises, Islamic finance has a significant opportunity to redefine its role by embracing sustainability as a core principle, creating a more inclusive economy that balances profit with environmental and social responsibility.

Jain and Hindu Perspectives

Professor Atul Shah, City University London then delivered a presentation and emphasised the importance of servant leadership in finance. He argued that while finance textbooks often focus on equations, cultural and spiritual dimensions are crucial for understanding finance’s impact. Highlighting the concept of Dharma as the science of sustainable living, they suggested that India’s diverse cultural perspectives on finance could offer valuable insights. This perspective calls for a reevaluation of finance that incorporates values from Dharmic traditions, which emphasize community and shared prosperity, illustrated by cultural practices such as the Jain community’s Chopra Puja ritual, which fosters gratitude and communal harmony.

Christian Perspectives

Robert Burgon, Chair of the Church of Scotland Investors Trust, provided insights into the Trust’s ethical investment strategy, which manages funds for congregations looking to invest surplus money. Established 30 years ago, the Trust excludes sectors like alcohol and tobacco while adhering to ESG principles. He shared the church’s struggles with fossil fuel investments, leading to the decision to divest from oil and gas companies based on investment considerations rather than political pressure. Following this, the church established an Ethical Oversight Committee to ensure that investment practices align with its mission of safeguarding creation. This committee collaborates with organizations like Faith Invest to navigate the complexities of ethical investing, emphasizing responsible stewardship while ensuring returns for investors.

The Role of ESG in Modern Investment

Dr. Robbie Mochrie from Heriot Watt University explored the intersections of philosophy, theology, and investment practices, particularly focusing on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing. He framed his remarks around Eastern philosophies emphasizing unity in creation, contrasting them with Western thought, which often separates humanity from nature. By tracing the historical development of Western economic systems, Dr. Mochrie critiqued their often exploitative nature and highlighted the necessity for sustainable and equitable practices. He posited that ESG investing is a modern response that seeks to include considerations for future generations and environmental impacts in financial decision-making. The conclusion underscored the importance of adopting a long-term perspective in ESG, aligning with philosophical and religious traditions that consider broader implications beyond immediate benefits.

These discussions underscore the need for diverse perspectives in shaping a responsible financial landscape that recognizes the interconnectedness of humanity, nature, and future generations. As the conversation around ethical finance evolves, integrating sustainability into investment strategies becomes increasingly crucial.

One of the final SDG Hive sessions was delivered in partnership with UN Global Compact Network UK and the Principles for Responsible Investment.

Billy Armstrong, Project Manager of the UN Global Compact Network UK, introduced the Sustainable Finance Collaboration Lab and highlighted the crucial role of businesses in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As the 2030 deadline looms, the urgency to accelerate progress is intensifying, with recent reports showing that only 17% of the SDGs are on track. This stark reality highlights the need for swift, coordinated action from businesses, governments, and financial institutions to turn the tide.

Billy began by outlining the mission of the UN Global Compact, which is to encourage businesses worldwide to adopt sustainable and socially responsible policies. The Global Compact’s four key focus areas—human rights, environmental sustainability, labour practices, and anti-corruption—are underpinned by the SDGs framework, which serves as a roadmap towards a more sustainable and equitable future. Finance, Billy emphasised, is a critical lever for progress across all 17 SDGs, not only to strengthen financial systems but also to build resilience in an interconnected and increasingly volatile global economy.

As businesses represent around 70% of global GDP, their role in driving the SDGs cannot be overstated. Billy highlighted that finance is not just a tool for growth but a transformative force capable of aligning business practices with the broader goals of sustainable development. He noted that while some progress has been made, the world is still falling behind, and there is an urgent need to channel more financial resources into projects and initiatives that directly contribute to SDG achievement.

Satya Tripathi, former Assistant Secretary-General of the UN, then delivered an opening keynote and underscored the persistent issue of follow-through in international gatherings, particularly at the United Nations (UN). While these convenings aim to foster substantial agreements among member states, the diverse perspectives and expectations of nearly 200 countries often result in vague outcomes that fail to translate into actionable results. This phenomenon is prevalent across various global Initiatives, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Satya illustrated the importance of creating effective narratives to mobilize resources and action. For instance, a project in Indonesia secured $400 million for forest conservation without any government funding, demonstrating that private investments can successfully support environmental initiatives when framed effectively. Similarly, in India, a shift toward sustainable farming has begun, funded by the German Development Bank, showcasing the potential of collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors.

Moving forward, there is a call to action to focus on practical solutions that foster local empowerment rather than getting bogged down in financial metrics alone. The ambitious goal of creating 10 million green entrepreneurs exemplifies this vision, aiming to equip communities with the tools and resources necessary to drive sustainable change. By emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and community ownership, the speaker believes that meaningful progress in sustainable finance can be achieved, ultimately leading to positive outcomes for both the environment and local economies.

The panel discussion moderated by Jessica Attard, Deputy Director, Cambridge Institute of Sustainable Leadership covered the role of partnerships in advancing finance for the SDGs. The discussion focused on the challenges of alignment within the financial system, such as misaligned time horizons, risk-reward ratios, and management incentives. Panellists shared examples of initiatives and partnerships aimed at addressing these challenges, including PRI’s collaborative stewardship initiative, capacity-building programs, and engagement with policymakers. The panel also discussed the importance of scaling private finance into emerging markets and addressing the adaptation finance gap. Panellists highlighted the need for capacity building, knowledge sharing, and leveraging partnerships with development banks and other stakeholders to mitigate risks and unlock investment in these regions. The discussion touched on the role of policy and reporting frameworks in promoting positive outcomes and driving systemic change. Panellists shared insights on the challenges of reporting requirements and the need for alignment between corporate positions and lobbying activities. They also discussed the importance of engaging with policymakers to create an enabling environment for sustainable finance and long-term investment.

A key highlight of the session was the interactive collaboration lab, where participants engaged in breakout discussions to share their experiences, challenges, and insights. These discussions fostered a spirit of collaboration, with participants recognising the value of collective action in addressing global issues. By bringing together diverse perspectives, the lab encouraged new ideas and solutions, demonstrating that partnerships are essential for navigating the complex landscape of sustainable development.

With less than six years left until the 2030 deadline, the session underscored that time is of the essence. The financial sector has a unique opportunity to lead the charge, leveraging capital and expertise to create a more sustainable future. By collaborating across sectors and borders, businesses, investors, and governments can ensure that the SDGs are met, securing prosperity for current and future generations.

The session closed with a call to action: finance must be at the forefront of the global effort to achieve the SDGs. The collaboration between the UN Global Compact, GEFI, and PRI serves as a blueprint for how collective action and partnerships can create meaningful impact. The path ahead is challenging, but with finance as a catalyst for change, a sustainable and equitable future is within reach.

In the penultimate session of this year’s SDG Hive, Dame Susan Rice, Chair of GEFI, moderated a discussion with leaders of global financial centres to discuss collaboration in driving the sustainable finance agenda. The panel featured Alderman Alastair King, Chairman of Naisbitt King Group and the 696th Lord Mayor of the City of London (subject to election); Tan Sri Azman Mokhtar, Chairman of the Leadership Council of the Malaysia International Islamic Finance Centre; and Amal Larhlid, Partner at PwC Middle East.

The conversation emphasised the importance of understanding diverse cultural perspectives and recognising that ethics are dynamic, evolving in response to regional contexts and societal values. Insights from Southeast Asia and the Middle East highlighted how ethical norms differ, with panellists sharing examples of how financial practices align with local traditions. These reflections revealed the complexities of interpreting sustainability and responsibility in a global financial system.

A key theme was the critical role of organisational culture in shaping ethical decision-making within financial institutions. The panel discussed the need to foster a strong ethical culture, using behavioural science and data analytics to ensure that investment decisions prioritise societal impact. They explored practical strategies for assessing and improving ethical practices within institutions, focusing on embedding responsible investment principles.

The discussion also touched on rethinking security concepts, such as energy and climate security, noting that these issues are increasingly intertwined with investment strategies. The panellists stressed the importance of development assistance in conflict prevention, emphasising that financing solutions must address both social and environmental challenges.

The session concluded with a call to action, encouraging greater collaboration between financial centres in the Global North and South. Key takeaways included promoting investments that drive positive social change, fostering open dialogue among stakeholders to reconcile differing ethical perspectives, and examining regulatory frameworks to balance innovation with ethical integrity.

Ultimately, the discussion underscored the need to align financial practices with evolving ethical principles, highlighting the complexities of modern finance while striving for a sustainable future.

In this insightful session, delivered in partnership with the David Hume Institute, Professor Jan Bebbington, Director of the Pentland Centre and The Rubin Chair in Sustainability in Business, led a discussion with economist and author Professor Tim Jackson. The conversation focused on the complex relationship between prosperity, growth, and sustainable development. Professor Tim presented his thesis from his renowned work Prosperity Without Growth, arguing that while endless economic growth is unsustainable due to its environmental consequences, degrowth or a lack of growth could lead to economic instability.

The central dilemma highlighted by Professor Tim is that while economic growth drives public services and technological innovation, it also contributes to environmental degradation. He challenged the traditional focus on GDP and monetary income as measures of success, advocating instead for a broader definition of prosperity—one centred on human well-being, balance, and flourishing within ecological limits.

Key topics covered included the diminishing returns of income on life expectancy, the potential for green growth and low-carbon technologies, and the need for developed nations to address climate debt and support sustainable development in the Global South. Professor Tim acknowledged initial scepticism from developing countries, who viewed the call for sustainability as a way to limit their progress. However, the discussion underscored the importance of balancing growth with environmental responsibility and ensuring prosperity for all.

Professor Tim also critiqued the financial system’s reliance on profit maximisation, proposing reforms to align finance with social and environmental goals. He emphasised the importance of redefining enterprise around service and sustainability rather than growth alone.

The session concluded with a call for Western economies to move away from growth-centric models and learn from diverse global perspectives on prosperity, particularly those rooted in sustainable practices and philosophies.

Making the Business Case for Nature:

The second SDG Hive session, in partnership with Planet Tracker and WWF, focused on the urgent need for businesses to recognise the financial risks associated with nature-related issues. John Willis, Director of Research at Planet Tracker, opened the discussion by emphasising that nature and biodiversity risks impact all sectors, not just agriculture or manufacturing. Drawing from the World Economic Forum’s global risk survey and UK university research, he highlighted the rising underappreciation of these risks, linking them to sovereign debt, trade, and real assets. Companies that ignore these interdependencies could face significant financial consequences, including increased litigation and regulatory scrutiny.

Integrating Nature into Transition Plans

Vassilis Gkoumas, an Economist at WWF, addressed the importance of transition plans that incorporate nature considerations. He defined “transition” as the process businesses undertake to reduce their environmental impact and improve sustainability. Gkoumas outlined two types of interventions: value chain interventions, which modify supply chains and production methods to foster a circular economy, and beyond value chain interventions, including nature-based solutions like forest conservation.

Using a UK dairy farm’s transition to regenerative practices as a case study, he illustrated that while initial investments in sustainability might reduce revenue, long-term profitability could increase through decreased reliance on costly inputs. Gkoumas stressed the need for governmental direction in defining actionable steps for businesses to align with national nature conservation targets, previewing an upcoming report on sector contributions to these goals.

Case Studies on Animal Welfare and Finance

The session also explored the intersection of animal welfare, nature-related risks, and the finance sector. Jackie Groberski, Manager, Corporate and Financial Institution Engagement from Humane Society International, highlighted the economic impact of animal welfare issues, citing a 12% loss in UK GDP due to livestock diseases, which surpasses COVID-19’s economic toll. Her organisation advocates for improving existing animal welfare standards while reducing the number of animals in production through collaboration with financial institutions.

Key points included the importance of science-based arguments to engage financial institutions on animal welfare, the risks of “humane washing,” and the significant contribution of animal agriculture to climate change. Successful financing examples, such as DBS Bank’s sustainability-linked loan for cage-free production, were discussed, alongside ongoing efforts to integrate animal welfare into sustainability standards.

Investing in Nature

Leon Kamhi, Head of Responsibility and EOS at Federated Hermes, rounded out the session by presenting how his firm engages with nature-focused investments, despite not being a specialist in this area. He outlined five strategies for investing in nature, including blended finance for agricultural solutions and stewardship engagement. However, he also highlighted challenges such as pension fund industry fragmentation, data availability, and the profitability of nature-based solutions.

Leon emphasised the complexities of investing in nature, urging financial institutions to address both the opportunities and risks involved in such investments. The panel reinforced the need for a comprehensive understanding of how financial decision-making can align with nature conservation goals, underscoring the broader implications for economic stability and sustainability.

This session illustrated the critical necessity for integrating nature-related risks and animal welfare considerations into business strategies and financial practices. By recognising these interconnections, companies can better navigate the evolving landscape of sustainability and enhance their resilience against emerging financial risks.

Our first SDG Hive session, moderated by Thom Kenrick, Head of Social Strategy and Impact at NatWest Group, opened with a candid exploration of our progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Satya S. Tripathi, Secretary General of the Global Alliance for a Sustainable Planet, delivered a stark and sobering message: “We are failing miserably, and it’s a collective failure—not just the UN.” His critique reflected the urgency of the task at hand, but he also offered a path forward, emphasising the importance of “virtuous partnerships.” For Satya, the solution to our global sustainability crisis lies in collaboration across governments, businesses, and civil society, urging the audience to work together to create the transformative changes needed.

Yulia Bull, Head of UK & Ireland Responsible Investment Ecosystems at PRI, added a more optimistic note. She highlighted how capital flows are increasingly being tied to sustainability outcomes, with responsible investment strategies gaining momentum. Bull pointed out that while the 2030 deadline for the SDGs might not be met, the ongoing shift in aligning investment decisions with long-term sustainability goals shows significant progress. She argued that even if we fall short of the 2030 timeline, the journey itself remains vital, and every step forward brings us closer to the goals.

Both speakers drove home a critical message: although time is running out, the need for action remains paramount. As Tripathi put it, “There is no such thing as a sustainable region in an unsustainable world.” Despite the challenges, it’s clear that continued progress towards the SDGs is essential, and collective action is the key.

The session then turned to insights from different regions, each grappling with its own sustainability challenges and opportunities.

North America
Kimberley Player, Strategic Investment Advisor, raised concerns about the political uncertainties in the U.S. and Canada, particularly with upcoming elections that could affect the sustainability agenda. However, she highlighted the positive strides being made at the state level, particularly in California and New York. Events like Climate Week NYC have helped to keep sustainability at the forefront, with local initiatives driving meaningful progress despite federal challenges.

Europe
Julie Malzac, Director at Accuracy, spoke about Europe’s leadership in sustainability, noting that while the continent has been at the forefront of promoting ESG transparency and regulatory frameworks, significant disparities in SDG performance remain across EU countries. Europe’s legislative push for better ESG disclosures is a global example, but Malzac stressed that more needs to be done to bridge the performance gap.

Arnaud Cohen Stuart, Head of Business Ethics at ING, raised an important and often overlooked question: “Who’s going to pay the bill?” His remarks highlighted the growing need for a clear sustainability taxonomy to ensure transparency in how costs are distributed across sectors and stakeholders, making sure that no region or industry is left behind in the green transition.

Middle East
Amal Larhlid (أمال لغليض), Partner at PwC Middle East, offered a perspective on the Middle East’s growing awareness of sustainability. She stressed that businesses in the region are increasingly recognising the importance of integrating sustainability into their core operations, rather than treating it as a mere compliance cost. “Sustainability is a business imperative, not just a compliance cost,” she remarked, adding that cohesive policies and regulations are urgently needed to support this shift. As countries in the region look to diversify their economies, sustainability will be central to their long-term strategies.

South Asia
Arslan Iqbal, Chief Risk Officer at The Bank of Punjab, spoke about Pakistan’s unique vulnerability to climate change. As one of the top 10 most affected countries, Pakistan faces severe challenges related to food security, environmental degradation, and energy shortages. Iqbal emphasised the need for urgent action, particularly in mitigating and adapting to climate risks.
Dato’ Wan Kamaruzaman Wan Ahmad, Chairman of MBSB Bank Berhad in Malaysia, added to the conversation by highlighting Malaysia’s commitment to integrating ESG into Islamic finance. He stressed the importance of stewardship in investment decisions, noting that Islamic finance provides a long-term approach that aligns with both local and global sustainability goals. “As Islamic banks, we seek to serve clients cradle to heaven, beyond the grave,” he said, underlining the moral and ethical dimensions that drive their commitment to sustainable finance.

As the session wrapped up, one thing became clear: while we may not reach the SDGs by 2030, the journey remains critical. The road to sustainability is long, but progress, however incremental, is better than inaction. The key to advancing the SDGs lies in demonstrating the economic value of sustainability. As we have seen from the regional perspectives shared during this session, whether it’s for nations, businesses, or investors, aligning economic interests with sustainability outcomes is crucial for driving change at scale.