Building a Greener Future: Highlights from the Nordic Ambassadors’ Forum 2024
On November 14, 2024, NordCham Philippines hosted the Nordic Ambassadors’ Forum at BDO Valero Towers in Makati City, gathering stakeholders from both the Nordic region and the Philippines to discuss innovative pathways for sustainable partnerships. This unique forum underscored the shared commitment of Nordic countries and local leaders to collaborative, environmentally focused growth.
Bo Lundqvist, President of NordCham Philippines, opened the event with remarks that set the tone for a day focused on sustainable development. The forum featured esteemed ambassadors, including Amb. Franz-Michael Mellbin of Denmark, Amb. Saija Nurminen of Finland, Amb. Christian Halaas Lyster of Norway, and Amb. Harald Fries of Sweden. Moderated by Ping Manongdo of Eco-Business, the discussions included insights from notable panelists from Novo Nordisk, Ikano, WWF Philippines, and RiverRecycle.
The first session began with Amb. Mellbin’s address on “The Multidimensional Nature of Sustainability,” where he highlighted the interdependence of environmental, social, and economic factors. Wei Sun of Novo Nordisk Philippines later joined him, offering perspectives on how businesses can align with these multidimensional goals.
Amb. Fries led the second session on corporate responsibility, joined by Frida Wallin of Ikano Philippines. Their dialogue emphasized the crucial role of corporate accountability in achieving long-term environmental health.
In the final session, Amb. Lyster discussed circular economy principles and waste reduction, alongside Liezl Stuart del Rosario of WWF Philippines. Amb. Nurminen concluded the sessions by sharing local success stories and sustainable initiatives with Fidel Ventura of RiverRecycle, showcasing impactful community-based projects.
Marie Mariano of BDO Unibank closed the event with gratitude for attendees and an appeal for continued collaboration. A surprise raffle sponsored by Turkish Airlines added a celebratory end to the forum.
The Nordic Ambassadors’ Forum successfully brought together visionaries and industry leaders to reinforce their dedication to sustainability, fostering collaborative efforts that aim to shape a greener, more responsible future.
We would like to thank everyone who joined us in making the Nordic Ambassadors’ Forum a success. Your participation, insights, and dedication to sustainable growth have had a real impact. Together, we are building strong partnerships for a brighter, more sustainable future for both the Nordic region and the Philippines.
We also wish to express our sincere gratitude to the Embassy of Denmark in the Philippines, the Finnish Embassy in Manila, the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Manila, and the Embassy of Sweden in Manila for their invaluable support.
A special thanks to our sponsors who made the event possible. Your contributions were essential to the success of the forum, and we are deeply grateful for your commitment to fostering sustainable growth and collaboration.
Event Partner: Turkish Airlines
Venue Partner: BDO Unibank
Gold Sponsor: AEVEN
Silver: NIRAS
Hotel Partner: Ascott BGC