Tapping on green finance for a sustainable future

PENANG launched its first Green Finance Conference to further accelerate the state’s environmental sustainability through the adoption of green agendas.

 

It was organised by Penang Green Council (PGC).

 

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the conference would be instrumental in increasing the understanding of the role and potential of green finance in Penang’s sustainable development.

 

“I hope that it will greatly assist in project matching and provide a good opportunity for the state to collaborate with potential financing partners.

 

“Green finance represents the future, and I am confident that with the active participation of all stakeholders, it will benefit us in the long run and make our state a better place for everyone.

 

“In some ways, the green finance will help to empower and safeguard a better and more sustainable economy for a country or state.

 

“It includes climate finance, which focuses on investments aimed specifically at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the effects of climate change,” said Chow in his address at the launch.

 

Chow also added that Penang’s sustainable development roadmap and green investment plans would be introduced to all those financial institutions and investors who take part in the conference.

 

“We have also launched the Penang Green Agenda 2030 this year to provide a framework for Penang to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

 

“My Penang2030 Vision, which aspires to make Penang ‘A Family-focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation’, also emphasises the need for Penang to build a green economy and a climate resilient society by 2030,” he added.

 

Meanwhile, one of the speakers, Sofia Castello, who is the head of Think City for climate change and environmental resilience, presented her slides on Penang Nature-based Adaptation Programme, Mangrove Forests PRE Programme, Tiny Forest and Urban Greening and Opportunities for Nature-based Solutions.

 

The Penang Green Finance Virtual Conference 2021 is a one day programme held virtually, and moderated by Dr Ng Shin Wei, who is also the Penang Green Agenda project manager.

 

Also present were state Welfare and Environment Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh, state Agrotech and Food Security, Rural Development and Health Committee chairman Dr Norlela Ariffin, Penang Green Council  general manager Josephine Tan, Machang Bubok assemblyman Lee Khai Loon (PGC board member), Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng and Penang Green Council board members.

 

Story by Tanushalini Moroter

Pix Law Suun Ting

Video Chan Kok Kuan