The Student Breakout Session: Sustainable Development in Action – Harnessing AI, Climate Tech & Sustainable Finance Across Industries
About this Event
This session, positioned as a student-focused and career programme within the flagship CASI Sustainability Forum during Hong Kong Green Week which also take place on 11 September 2026. Tailored for university students and forward-thinking young professionals preparing to enter the green economy, this premier practical forum connects academic learning with the rapid evolution of global markets and sustainability-led business practice.
Co-organized by the Capacity-building Alliance of Sustainable Investment (CASI), the Hong Kong Green Finance Association (HKGFA), the HKU Faculty of Social Sciences—Global Society and Sustainability Lab, and the HKU Sustainability Society, the session will examine the macroeconomic shifts reshaping global markets and Hong Kong’s strategic trajectory as an Asian hub for green and sustainable finance.
Participants will explore how foundational sectors - including banking, energy, and supply chains, are redirecting capital, innovation, and operational decision-making toward climate-aligned outcomes. Beyond high-level market insights, the session will offer practical career guidance for those seeking to contribute to the green transition. A dedicated career seminar featuring career/ HR leaders and executive recruiters will provide actionable advice on CV development, employability, and career pathways across sustainability, climate technology, and sustainable finance. The session will also provide valuable networking opportunities for participants to engage directly with industry leaders following the networking session at the main CASI Sustainability Forum, broadening their exposure to leading voices across sustainable finance, climate technology, and the wider green economy.
Agenda
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 2:15 – 2:30 pm | Registration & Networking Reception |
| 2:30 – 2:50 pm | Opening & Welcome Remarks
Introduction to CASI & HKGFA University welcome and session objectives
Speakers:
|
| 2:50 – 3:30 pm | Panel 1: Sustainability and Future Career: Trends Redefining Finance and Industry
This panel session is designed to offer university students a clear, engaging, and pragmatic overview of sustainability and sustainable finance in 2026. The session will walk through the latest global and regional trends, with a specific focus on Hong Kong’s role as Asia’s green and sustainable financial services hub as well as how technology and AI are drivers for decarbonisation. Panellists will explore the role of sustainable finance is steering capital toward greener outcomes and highlight how different industries—such as banking, energy, manufacturing, and supply chain—are adapting. A key focal point will be new battery technology and developments, together with the growing role of AI in accelerating sustainability efforts, and what these technological advancements and the role of finance in supports these industries mean for the next generation of professionals entering the workforce.
Moderator:
Speakers:
|
| 3:30 – 3:45pm | Q&A on Panel 1 |
| 3:45 – 4:25 pm | Panel 2: Career Sharing & Future-proofing
An engaging discussion featuring business leaders and professionals sharing valuable insights, experience and advice into career pathways within the green finance and sustainability sectors.
Moderator:
Speakers:
|
| 4:25 – 4:35 pm | Introduction to online HKGFA-CASI Certificate in Sustainable Finance programme
Overview of the new online programme as a tool to upskill professionals in the sustainable finance field.
Speakers:
|
| 4: 35 – 4:50pm | Q&A on Panel 2 |
| 4:50 – 4:55 pm | Closing Remarks
Speakers:
|
| Exclusive Networking session for Students Attendees
Exact Venue to be provided soon |
More Information
Date: 11 September 2026 (Friday)
Time: 2:15 pm – 4:45 pm
Venue: Social Sciences Chamber, 11/F, The Jockey Club Tower, Centennial Campus