New York Climate Week 2024, held from September 22 to 29, served as a global platform for over 600 forums aimed at addressing the climate crisis through collaborative efforts among businesses, finance, and non-profits. Among the standout participants was the Society of Entrepreneurs & Ecology (SEE), a leading environmental NGO from China, which showcased its innovative climate solutions and celebrated its two decades of advocacy.
Key Takeaways
- SEE hosted the "Green Partnerships: Business, Climate, & Nature" event, marking its third consecutive year at New York Climate Week.
- The organization mobilized green procurement among 1.4 million suppliers, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 8 million tons.
- Keynote speakers included UN officials and leaders from the philanthropic and business sectors.
SEE’s Role in Climate Advocacy
Founded in 2004, SEE has emerged as a pivotal player in China’s environmental landscape, supported by a network of over 600 influential entrepreneurs. The organization has been instrumental in shaping global environmental governance since its debut at the UN Copenhagen Climate Conference in 2009.
During the event, Mr. Zhou Zhou, President of SEE, highlighted significant milestones, including the China Real Estate Green Supply Chain Action, which serves as a replicable model for corporate climate action.
Notable Speakers and Discussions
The event featured a lineup of distinguished speakers:
- Mr. Amandeep Singh Gill – UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology
- Ms. Eileen Rockefeller – Co-Founder and President of the Growald Climate Fund
- Mr. Xiaoyu Zhu – Board Member of SEE
- Ms. Song Zhao – CEO of Society of Entrepreneurs & Ecology, Inc.
These speakers addressed critical topics such as sustainable development, family philanthropy, and SEE’s global strategy.
Roundtable Insights
A roundtable discussion moderated by Ms. Katrin Harvey, Secretary General of Foundation 20 (F20), included:
- Ligia Noronha – UN Assistant Secretary-General
- Joe Walston – Executive Vice President of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)
- Manuel Pulgar Vidal – Global Leader of Climate & Energy at WWF
Panelists praised China’s advancements in biodiversity conservation and clean energy, emphasizing SEE’s role in uniting businesses and civil society to enhance China’s climate leadership.
Engagement and Future Directions
Throughout the week, SEE’s delegation participated in nearly 20 events, focusing on:
- Climate protection
- Ecological restoration
- Youth empowerment
- Social innovation
Discussions with financial institutions like Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley explored avenues for impact investment and ESG integration, further solidifying SEE’s commitment to sustainable practices.
As China’s leading environmental NGO, SEE continues to balance business success with corporate social responsibility, addressing issues such as desertification control, sustainable business practices, ecosystem preservation, nature education, and ocean conservation. Its growing global influence positions China’s civil society as a vital contributor to the international environmental movement.
Sources
- SEE Shines at New York Climate Week, Highlighting Progressive Climate Solutions In China | Markets Insider, markets.businessinsider.com.
- SEE Shines at New York Climate Week, Highlighting Progressive Climate | Mitchell Advocate, Mitchell Advocate.
- SEE Shines at New York Climate Week, Highlighting Progressive Climate | Tillsonburg News, Tillsonburg News.
- SEE Shines at New York Climate Week, Highlighting Progressive Climate | The Shoreline Beacon, The Shoreline Beacon.
- SEE Shines at New York Climate Week, Highlighting Progressive Climate | Northern News, Northern News.
