It is no secret that the APAC region is often at the forefront of emerging technologies and investment trends. Therefore, it will be no surprise to learn that several APAC experts have identified sustainability trends for 2024 that could make a huge difference to companies, economies, and the global environment.

 

Green Finance

 

While the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) trend may not yet be as powerful as many had hoped, progress is certainly being made. If you also consider sustainable bonds and green loans, this is certainly something that companies and governments need to consider in the short, medium, and longer term. In the APAC region, China, Japan, and Singapore are the main drivers for green finance, and progress is currently much quicker than that in Europe and the USA.

 

Digitisation

 

In reality, digitisation is now a significant part of all economies and all business sectors across the globe. The ability to reach out to previously isolated clients has been a game-changer for many companies. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are the fuel powering the next-generation technology. Issues such as smart manufacturing, sustainable energy management, and more efficient product designs are reducing waste and maximising energy sources.

 

Circular economies

 

For many people, the concept of a circular economy epitomises the true value of sustainable investment. As the term suggests, this concept minimises waste and maximises resources, with companies now "obliged" to recycle, remanufacture, and reduce their environmental footprint, all with the aim of becoming more efficient and profitable. It's a challenge, but one that will likely reward the brave!

 

Renewable energy

 

While the broader sustainability model being adopted in the APAC region and around the world is relatively new in some areas, renewable energy has been a hot topic for many years. The APAC region is particularly strong in solar, wind, and hydropower projects, attracting investment from government and private equity firms. Historically, renewable energy was often unreliable, but the situation is changing, and more companies are adopting clean energy solutions for their business models.

 

Resilient supply chains

 

If there is one thing that businesses learned from the pandemic, it was the unforeseen elements of risk that literally crashed supply chains around the world. This has forced companies to switch to a transparent model and create more resilient supply chains. As part of the green revolution, companies are now considering ethical practices, climate risk, and regulatory requirements in tandem with traceability and accountability. Will the APAC economy be more prepared for the next pandemic?

 

Engaging with society

 

While not necessarily an obvious financial benefit to businesses, there is undoubtedly a movement across the APAC region for companies to engage more with local and national societies. The idea of "giving back" has been well received by the new generation, creating a degree of trust and respect and enhancing the reputations of many businesses. Financial returns are likely to be much further down the line, but at this stage, for many companies, it is a case of building solid foundations for the future.

 

Summary

 

While we have covered some of the main areas of sustainable investment and business practices, we are just scratching the surface. Growing demand for more sustainability has prompted a significant increase in investment in the APAC region, and while ESG may not yet be as successful as many had hoped, progress is being made. In some ways, this has deflected from the success of areas such as green loans and sustainable business practices, which are particularly strong in the Far East.

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