LGT recently hosted its second Climate Conference in Singapore, gathering over 300 experts, scientists, investors, and industry leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities in transitioning to a low-carbon economy. The event provided a platform for key voices to share insights on the long-term costs of inaction, the urgent need for tangible progress in addressing climate change, and the pivotal role investors can play in the transition to a low-carbon economy.
H.S.H Prince Max von und zu Liechtenstein, Chairman of LGT, opened the conference by noting that companies should view climate change not only as a challenge, but also as a driver for innovation and investment, urging businesses to allocate more capital towards sustainable technologies and business models.
Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat emphasised the existential threat climate change poses, particularly to low-lying nations like Singapore. He highlighted the country's proactive approach through the Singapore Green Plan 2030, which aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Dr Winston Chow, a Singaporean climate scientist, underscored the critical impact of climate change on biodiversity and economies, stressing the importance of investing in renewable energy and preserving ecosystems. Adding a financial perspective, Dilhan Pillay, CEO of Temasek Holdings, discussed how the company balances short-term tactical investments with long-term sustainable growth, addressing key global challenges such as the energy transition and the need for a just transition across sectors.
Other industry leaders, such as Manish Pant, Executive Vice President for International Operations at Schneider Electric and Poman Lo, Vice Chairman and Managing Director at Regal Hotels International, showcased concrete examples of climate action within their respective sectors. Pal Erik Sjatil, CEO of Lightrock, noted that while the technology to combat climate change exists, the focus must now shift from discussions to capital deployment and the implementation of real-world solutions.
In addition, Managing Director at the WEF (World Economic Forum) Gim Huay Neo called for businesses to rethink their economic models in response to climate change, using Costa Rica's success in reforesting while growing its GDP as an example of how profitability and sustainability can coexist.
The role of carbon markets was also a key topic, with Frederick Teo, CEO of GenZero, and Michael Azlen, CEO of Carbon Cap Management, exploring how both voluntary and regulated carbon markets can drive emissions reductions and support decarbonisation efforts.
Olivier de Perregaux, CEO of LGT Private Banking, outlined LGT's commitment to portfolio decarbonisation and its support for clients in transitioning their investments towards more sustainable options. A panel discussion with LGT experts further explored these themes and the strategies needed to drive meaningful progress.
Closing the conference, H.S.H Prince Max von und zu Liechtenstein emphasised the urgency of addressing climate change. He highlighted that while the path forward is complex, the core solutions remain clear: reducing greenhouse gas emissions and restoring natural carbon sinks. He encouraged participants to focus on actionable solutions and to prioritise decisive implementation over extended discussions.
As a company with a long-term, holistic focus, LGT remains committed to addressing climate change and supporting its clients on their journey towards more sustainable investments.