Hong Kong, May 9, 2025 – The International Guild of ESG and Sustainable Development (IGESG) is pleased to announce the successful completion of the 3-hour training session “ESG and the Law: What Business Leaders Need to Know,” co-hosted with the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC) on May 9, 2025, at the Chamber Theatre, United Centre.
The session brought together a diverse group of business leaders and professionals from key sectors including energy, property, logistics, chemicals, and professional services, offering an invaluable platform for dialogue on how ESG intersects with corporate responsibility, regulatory compliance, and strategic risk management.
Co-led by Professor Albert So and Dr. Melissa Poon, the training explored timely ESG issues through legal insights and practical case studies — with a particular focus on the Social pillar of ESG, including Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and greenwashing risks.
Key highlights included:
* 🌍 The real-world impact of climate change and climate-related financial risks
* 🇭🇰 Implications of the Hong Kong Climate Action Plan 2050 for corporate strategy
* ⚖️ Legal exposure and enforcement trends related to greenwashing and misleading ESG claims
* 🤝 The Social component of ESG, including DEI and evolving stakeholder expectations
* ☕️ Case studies such as the Starbucks case, emphasizing reputational risk and social accountability
* 📊 The growing role of ESG audits and assurance in reinforcing corporate governance
Professor So examined landmark legal cases involving Alibaba, Kerry Logistics, and Starbucks, as well as rulings from the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal, offering a critical view on governance breaches and social issues like child and forced labour.
Dr. Poon addressed the integration of climate resilience into governance frameworks, and underscored the increasing importance of DEI and greenwashing risks as key factors in both regulatory enforcement and market credibility.
“We were thrilled with the strong participation and engagement from attendees,” said an IGESG spokesperson. “Sessions like these are essential for equipping business leaders with the insight needed to navigate today’s complex ESG landscape.”
IGESG remains dedicated to advancing ESG leadership through professional education, cross-sector dialogue, and capacity building. We extend our sincere thanks to HKGCC for its collaboration in supporting ESG awareness and governance excellence in Hong Kong.
