As environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles undergo mounting political tests in the West, Asia can capture the opportunity to move along a defined pathway that matches ambition with reality. It is a pathway that isn’t going to be easy to tread. Plenty of challenges are scattered along the way including a sensible whole-of-community approach, crowding in the resources to effect change, harmonization of standards to ensure consistency of reporting, and scaling up the best practices even as nuances are not ignored. Amid the ESG tug-of-war, are Asia’s investors, corporates and policymakers moving beyond the hype, accelerating ESG adoption, while remaining ambitious to stay ahead?

• How are corporates disclosures reshaping the investment landscape?
• Are economic uncertainties in the next 12 months going to distract implementation?
• Where is Asia in terms of taxonomy and are these translating to better outcomes?
• What are the new frontiers in ESG investing and how do investors approach these?
• How should Asia respond to the political volatility in the West?

Asia’s net zero journey is in full swing. Just transition is the name of the game as the region works to support decarbonization efforts of its economies, particularly its high-emitting industries. Ensuring that transition is legitimate, however, is a crucial factor for success. Finance will continue to play an important role in meeting the region’s net zero targets. Asia’s challenge is striking the right balance to support the stakeholders committed to a better future for the region.

• What strategies do Asian corporates use in building credible transition plans?
• How will EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism impact Asia and what will this mean for Asian corporates?
• How are investors decarbonizing their portfolios and is it enough to support a just transition?
• How can Asia scale blended finance to accelerate a just transition?