In a landmark event at the prestigious House of Lords in the United Kingdom, global leaders converged at the Global Sustainability Summit to discuss the imperative role of sustainable finance in shaping a resilient and equitable future for all. The summit, held on March 28th, 2024, witnessed an esteemed panel comprising H.E Ambassador Prof. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, Otto Canon, H.E Rt Hon. Peter Odey, and other influential figures globally.
Moderated by Mariana Ruiz Worth, the panel delved into the critical aspects of sustainable finance, aiming to catalyze transformative actions towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and mitigating climate change impacts.
H.E Ambassador Prof. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, Chairperson of the Nigeria Governors Spouses’ Forum, emphasized the importance of integrating sustainable finance and gender parity initiatives into governmental policies to drive inclusive and sustainable development across regions. Her insights shed light on the pivotal role of leadership in fostering a conducive environment for sustainable investments and financial transparency.
Professor. Dr. Pauline Long, Serial entrepreneur and philanthropist reiterates the need for both the public and the private sector to put heads together to achieve sustainability.
Otto Canon, Sustainability Consultant at the World Sustainability Organization, articulated the need for innovative financial mechanisms prioritizing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria. He underscored the potential of sustainable finance in mobilizing capital towards projects that deliver positive social and environmental outcomes. There is also a need to use money as a force for good.
H.E Rt Hon. Peter Odey, the Deputy Governor of Cross Rivers State, Nigeria, shared valuable insights into his state’s unique approach to sustainable development, emphasizing the alignment of financial strategies with environmental conservation and social inclusivity goals.
Throughout the discussion, the panellists echoed a common sentiment: sustainable finance is not just an economic imperative but a moral obligation to safeguard the planet and uplift marginalized communities.
They underscore the imperative of forging dynamic cross-collaboration among various stakeholders – governments, academia, investors, and entrepreneurs – to secure successful returns on investment and make a tangible impact fostering alignments driving systematic change.
This event was a confluence of thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers from around the globe, each bringing forward their unique perspectives on sustainability and responsible investment. It reflects the global commitment to advancing sustainable finance agendas.
As the world grapples with pressing environmental and social challenges, the insights shared at the Global Sustainability Summit underscored the urgency for collaborative action and innovative financial solutions to build a more sustainable and prosperous future for future generations.
The summit concluded with a call to action for governments, businesses, investors, and individuals to integrate sustainability principles into financial decision-making processes by accelerating the transition towards a resilient and inclusive global economy.