Professor Jenny Su, former president of National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), affirmed the significance of this forum in her opening remarks, especially highlighting the sustained support and involvement of NCKU alumni in sustainability issues over the years. “NCKU alumni in various countries and fields have consistently paid attention to and participated in related issues. These efforts have a profound impact on both academia and practice,” Su stated. She also mentioned that Taiwan has welcomed a new president and a new Minister of Environment, both of whom are long-time advocates for environmental protection. Su noted that the new policies and measures introduced by these leaders will have a significant impact on Taiwan’s contributions within the global framework.

Jenny Su: Interdisciplinary Understanding and Collaboration Are Essential to Addressing Sustainability Challenges

Professor Jenny Su particularly pointed out the transnational and interdisciplinary nature of environmental risks, emphasizing that only through interdisciplinary understanding and cooperation can these challenges be effectively addressed. “ESG and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) not only relate to environmental risks but also involve social risks and governance challenges. We need to enhance our understanding of these issues, continuously update our knowledge, and engage in extensive communication with people from different fields to better prepare response measures. This is true from a corporate perspective and even more so from a human survival perspective,” Su stated.

She further emphasized that achieving sustainable development relies not only on technological innovation and policy promotion but also on the joint participation of leaders from all sectors, as well as fostering a sense of sustainability awareness and responsibility in the next generation. “In this era of globalization, we need to pay more attention to the power of education. From schools to businesses, from governments to non-profit organizations, we all need to work together to promote sustainable education and the widespread adoption of sustainable development concepts,” Su said.

Additionally, Su mentioned that while pursuing sustainability goals, companies should pay more attention to employee well-being and social equity, as these are crucial components of achieving sustainable development. “Only when our businesses and society achieve true equity and well-being can we say that we are on the right path to sustainable development,” Su added.

Dorothy Denis: Businesses Must Take Concrete Actions and Investments Towards Sustainability, Not Just Make Verbal Commitments

Dr. Dorothy Denis, Chairperson of the ESG Committee of the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce, outlined the committee’s vision and mission in her speech. She pointed out that since the committee’s establishment in 2022, it has been dedicated to promoting sustainable development among its members across six continents and assisting Taiwanese businesses worldwide in implementing ESG principles and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She emphasized the importance of concrete actions, stating that companies should not stop at verbal commitments when pursuing sustainability goals but should engage in tangible actions and investments.

“I also want to emphasize the crucial role of digital transformation in achieving sustainability goals for businesses. Digitization can not only improve operational efficiency but also play a significant role in monitoring and reporting carbon emissions,” Denis said. She noted that in the face of digital disruption, with the right strategy, digital transformation is the shortcut for businesses to achieve sustainability. Therefore, companies should take a comprehensive approach, integrating various resources and strategies to genuinely achieve sustainability rather than making short-lived efforts. For example, collaborating with other companies and organizations within the supply chain can help address challenges by combining their expertise.

Denis also highlighted another important issue: combating “greenwashing.” She explained that greenwashing refers to companies misleading stakeholders by manipulating or deceiving them about their ESG efforts without genuinely investing resources to achieve these goals. “We hope to advocate and guide people to think about these issues and implement sustainability in the process of digital transformation. As we have now entered the AI era, without digital transformation, sustainability goals will become too complex or overly cumbersome in monitoring and reporting,” Denis stated.

Jin Hooi Chan: Businesses Need to Bear Social and Environmental Responsibilities

In his keynote speech, Professor Jin Hooi Chan of Greenwich University discussed the increasingly severe global warming issue since the 1980s, primarily due to rising greenhouse gas emissions. He explained that without effective measures, global temperatures will continue to rise. The academic consensus is that to limit temperature increases to 1.5 to 2 degrees Celsius, urgent implementation of emission reduction policies is needed.

However, current policies are far from sufficient to meet this target. While some countries have voluntarily taken action, more countries need to intensify their efforts. “The impacts of climate change include sea level rise, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events, which not only affect the environment but also threaten political and social stability, potentially leading to refugee crises caused by climate disasters. Yet, international law still lacks adequate protection for climate refugees.”

Chan also emphasized that businesses must not only pursue economic interests but also bear social and environmental responsibilities. Green marketing and sustainability-related reports are becoming increasingly important. Companies that fail to fulfill their sustainability commitments may face lawsuits and loss of investor trust. “The concept of sustainable development stems from the need to meet contemporary demands with limited resources while ensuring future needs are safeguarded. This concept encompasses two key aspects: the finiteness of resources and the destruction of non-renewable resources. Business leaders need to understand the importance of sustainability, acquire the necessary skills and technologies, and build support networks. Knowledge and financial resources are certainly important, but so are compassion and commitment to future generations. Our actions today will determine the future of our planet,” Chan concluded.

Bella Wang: Sustainable Development Requires New Generation Entrepreneurs to Collaborate Across the Entire Ecosystem

Bella Wang, CEO of the Taiwan Digital Enterprise Alliance (TDEA), presented several cases of enabling second- and third-generation entrepreneurs to achieve sustainable transformation in her keynote speech. The TDEA, founded by a new generation of entrepreneurs, aims to promote digital transformation and sustainable development through collaboration and innovation. In her speech at the forum, Wang shared the story of how they collectively increased the production of nucleic acid testing equipment during the pandemic, showcasing the cooperative spirit of second-generation entrepreneurs and their adaptability in crisis situations.

“We are committed to driving innovation and upgrading for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). From addressing the challenges entrepreneurs face in succession processes to assisting them with digital transformation and achieving carbon neutrality, we have witnessed the power of collaboration and trust along the way. This has reinforced our belief in the importance of cross-industry cooperation. Recently, we established the ‘Business Transformation Institute’ for new generation entrepreneurs, aiming to enhance their leadership through professional courses and practical opportunities while helping family businesses remain competitive in the global market. Sustainable development is not only the responsibility of individual enterprises but requires collaboration across the entire industry chain and ecosystem.”

Wang also pointed out that businesses should actively adopt innovative technologies and data-driven approaches to improve environmental performance and reduce carbon footprints. She mentioned that TDEA is launching a series of new initiatives, including the establishment of a data-driven decision support system and encouraging more companies to join the carbon neutrality effort. These measures will help enhance the competitiveness and sustainable development capabilities of the new generation of entrepreneurs.

Harry Hsu: The Influence of Business Leaders is the Key to Success in the Sustainability Race

Harry Hsu, CEO of 《The Icons》 and an NCKU alumnus, emphasized in his keynote speech that in the process of promoting sustainability, businesses must ensure that external stakeholders see the determination and practical abilities of business owners and companies in implementing ESG and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “It all comes down to visibility, which involves the personal brand communication of leaders and the sustainable image communication of the company itself. It ultimately depends on the leaders themselves—where do they want to take the company? Do stakeholders know this? The key to personal brand communication for business leaders lies in showcasing integrity and action to stakeholders. However, in the capital market, this is not enough. Business owners who proactively create their own influence will be the winners in the sustainability race,” Hsu stated.

Hsu also mentioned that according to the EY Global Institutional Investor Survey, over 90% of global investors use ESG criteria to evaluate corporate performance. Traditional financial reporting alone no longer satisfies investors, who also require high-quality and transparent non-financial ESG information. Many companies quietly contribute to environmental and social causes but are reluctant to engage with the media or wait passively for inquiries after taking action. From certain perspectives, this approach is disadvantageous. With the rise of stakeholder capitalism, proactive disclosure and communication with stakeholders have become crucial for establishing long-term trust.

“Instead of merely publishing reports and waiting for others to read them, companies should proactively release important information to stakeholders, leverage partnerships, and utilize digital communication tools so that all stakeholders, including supply chains, governments, media, investors, consumers, and employees, can clearly see and feel the company’s efforts. In other words, a company’s performance in ESG and SDGs should be loudly communicated, allowing influence to speak for business leaders. This influence can attract more resources, enabling both the company and its leaders to achieve greater longevity. This is why representative companies worldwide regard marketing and brand communication in the realm of sustainability as critical,” Hsu explained.

Business Leaders’ Willingness to Lead Together Ensures Ecosystem-Wide Success

Shane Day, President of the UK Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce – Junior Chapter, as one of the forum organizers, emphasized the importance of communicating ESG and SDG issues from the perspectives of education and communication in his speech. “This time, we specifically explored how to achieve sustainability from the perspective of business leaders to highlight the ‘G’ in ESG, which stands for Governance. From this critical perspective, whether in academia, industry, or government, if leaders are conscious and willing to put actions into practice, everyone can win together on this matter. Leaders with resources can certainly play a leading role.”

Sandra Cho, President of the NCKU Alumni Association in the UK, echoed President Jenny Su’s comments on the importance of interdisciplinary understanding and collaboration to effectively address sustainability challenges. She stated, “Overseas opinion leaders have the responsibility and obligation to connect resources from various countries, ensuring that sustainability issues can prepare everyone for the future. Academia has its role, businesses have their visions and goals, and governments have their duties. The most important thing is to maintain continuous dialogue. Therefore, we will continue to hold such transnational and cross-sector forums.”

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The post NCKU Overseas Alumni Lead Green Economy: Chinese and Taiwanese Business Associations in the UK Host Leaders’ Sustainability Forum first appeared on The Icons.

Focusing on Cultural and Ecological Sustainable Tourism, Implementing “United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples”

This summit’s theme is “Tourism for Cultural and Ecological Sustainability”, aimed at implementing the  “United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ” (UNDRIP) and promoting the concept of “responsible tourism”. During the conference, industry representatives, government officials, and academic experts from around the world deeply discussed how to foster local tourism by protecting cultural heritage and natural ecosystems. They also examined how tourism activities can effectively contribute to economic benefits, thereby supporting the sustainable development and community building of indigenous peoples.

Icyang Parod: Showcasing Taiwan’s Indigenous Culture to the World

In his opening speech, Vice Premier Cheng Wen-tsan highlighted that Taiwan is not only famous for international landmarks such as Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, and Taipei 101 but also for its unique cultural heritage of 16 indigenous tribes. The government fully sponsored the registration fees for all participants at this summit to allow more international friends to explore Taiwan’s diverse and rich cultural landscapes through this platform. Icyang Parod, the Chair of the Council of Indigenous Peoples, chose to deliver his speech in the Amis language, demonstrating the unique charm of indigenous culture. The simultaneous interpretation provided on-site further elevated this cultural confidence to an international audience.

Icyang Parod warmly welcomed the guests in Amis language:

“Dear friends, thank you for coming from afar to join this grand event. Here, we share not only our land but also our culture and spirit. ‘TULU’ in our Amis language means ‘three’, symbolizing the third edition of this summit and representing the convergence and integration of diverse cultures. The theme of this summit is ‘Tourism for Cultural and Ecological Sustainability’. We hope that through this gathering, not only will the world see the indigenous culture of Taiwan, but also that we can use international efforts to promote the sustainable development of our culture.”

Icyang also mentioned that the indigenous people possess wisdom of coexistence with nature, a precious legacy from their ancestors. Today, everyone is eager to share this wisdom with friends from around the world, together seeking how to maintain cultural identity while achieving a balance between economic development and ecological conservation in modern society.

International Guests Experience Culture and Ecology in Taiwanese Indigenous Tribes

The schedule for this summit is packed, including 2 keynote speeches, 4 forums, and 6 panel discussions, officially starting from the afternoon of April 18. To enhance participants’ understanding of Taiwanese indigenous cultures and ecologies, the organizers have specially designed three different cultural exploration routes to take international guests on field visits to several indigenous tribes. This not only serves as an in-depth cultural exchange opportunity but also as a feast for the eyes and spirit.

Through field visits, attendees have the chance to interact directly with indigenous communities, gaining a deeper understanding of their lifestyles and cultural spirits. These tribal visits are not just tourist activities but profound cultural exchanges and learning opportunities. For example, visitors can learn how the indigenous people use local resources to craft handicrafts or participate in traditional singing and dancing performances, which are crucial for enhancing appreciation and understanding of indigenous cultures.

Indigenous Tourism Flourishing Under Global Perspective

The TULU Summit is initiated by the World Indigenous Tourism Alliance (WINTA) and has been dedicated to promoting indigenous-led tourism development since its first edition in New Zealand. This platform not only promotes tourism but also serves as an important stage for international cultural exchanges and policy dialogues. Each summit deepens the dialogue and cooperation internationally, fostering the prosperity of indigenous tourism. The organizers’ decision to host this event in Taiwan aims to further strengthen global connections and enhance the international visibility of Taiwan and its unique culture.

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The post Global Efforts to Promote Indigenous Tourism! Taiwan’s Indigenous Affairs Leader Icyang‧Parod: Language No Longer a Barrier with Technology first appeared on The Icons.

In an engaging speech by Danny Chen, the founder of Medical Fablab UCL, he delved deeply into the latest trends and case studies of medical technology innovations. He shared the development of 3D printing technology from its application in the medical field to bioprinting and microfluidics technology. Furthermore, he discussed his past learning experiences at Harvard Medical School, Boston Children’s Hospital, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), exploring the development of the international biomedical industry and global strategies and planning, which earned enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Danny Chen stated that by 2025, the 3D printing industry is expected to reach a value of 7 billion USD, with bioprinting accounting for as much as fifty percent of this. “Before conducting surgeries, doctors will be able to precisely simulate the internal situation of patients, allowing for the customization of internal and external implants. Organ transplants could be replaced by more advanced technologies, and clinical trials will turn a new page for humanity. From a sustainability perspective, this aligns with the third goal of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring better health and well-being for all.”

The President of the UK Taiwan Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs Association, Shane Day, also presented the inaugural Women’s Influence Award of the Young Business Association at the event. In his opening remarks, he expressed gratitude and emphasized the association’s commitment to promoting exchanges between Taiwanese young talents and professionals. He mentioned that by regularly inviting experts from various industries to give lectures, the association provides its members with ample learning and networking opportunities. This, in turn, aids in personal career development, the discovery of business opportunities, and a deeper understanding of immigration, taxation, and property policies and regulations in the UK.

The Vice President of the UK Taiwan Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs Association, Harry Hsu, also stated that the association was fortunate to witness the impact of the inaugural Women’s Influence Award. These outstanding women represent strength, wisdom, and courage, achieving remarkable accomplishments in their respective fields. They also embody the spirit of the United Nations SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals), showing excellent alignment. This year, the UK Taiwan Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs Association will focus more on global sustainability issues, inviting leaders from various sectors to bring more professional lectures from industry, government, and academia, promoting a sustainable cycle of goodness.

On International Women’s Day, the UK Taiwan Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs Association specially organized the inaugural Women’s Influence Award ceremony to honor women who have achieved outstanding accomplishments in various fields. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Ms. Li Rui-Lan, General Manager of SinoPac Securities (Europe), who presented the awards, and witnessed by Mr. Hsu Po-Wei, Vice President of Bank of America and Honorary President of the Young Business Association.

The awardees include Tiffany Liu Pei-Hsin, Executive Director of International Marketing and Career Development at P&W UK and Vice President of the UK Taiwan Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs Association, who is dedicated to promoting the inner growth of Taiwanese women and assisting young Taiwanese in the UK with their career development; Dr. Anna Peng Jingqi, a data scientist who received the AWS Artificial Intelligence Award, founded the medical equipment blockchain startup Mulder Tech, and serves as the representative of the Liberal Democrats for Greater China; and Sandra Cho Zhuo Xiangdun, who, during her tenure as president of the NCKU Alumni Association, actively promoted Taiwan-UK exchanges and cooperated with the Young Business Association to organize various events, and currently works at SinoPac Securities (Europe).

Looking forward, the UK Taiwan Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs Association plans to host a variety of rich and diverse events. These include lectures on topics such as the development and business opportunities of the UK’s high-speed rail, real estate investment, the business development of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and international economic and trade policies, as well as financial investment forums. They hope that young people from all walks of life living in the UK can come together to participate in these events.

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The post Founder of Medical Fablab UCL, Danny Chen: Rapid Development in Bioprinting Technology Becomes a New Highlight in UN SDG Indicators! first appeared on The Icons.

The interview team of 《The Icons》 aims to show the world through her story that, no matter what hardships the world may endure, there are always individuals willing to light the beacon of hope for others with their lives.

The Committee for Displaced Persons Lights a Beacon of Hope for Refugees

Currently, with the support of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), a Committee for Internally Displaced Persons (IDP Committee) has been established in Luhansk Oblast, serving as a liaison bridge between displaced persons and the authorities. In November 2023, the UNHCR hosted the first forum of the All Displaced Persons Committee in Kyiv, where Yana Liubymova shared her story with forum participants, calling for more people to stand up and help the helpless refugees:

“ Ukraine is now home to millions of displaced persons facing difficult situations. We must not only focus on the current difficulties but more importantly, work together to find and advocate for long-term solutions to these problems, and courageously move forward!”

From Displacement to Assisting Refugees

Yana’s story began in 2014 when the conflict in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the eastern part of the country forced her to leave her hometown for the first time. Faced with the threat of war and the uncertainty of the future, she exhibited a resilience and courage not found in most people. Confronted with the pain of her homeland being ravaged by war, Yana did not bow to adversity. Instead, she used her experiences and stories to inspire others facing similar difficulties.

“ We started working to assist refugees because we wanted to help people. Having gone through displacement myself, when war came and affected every single person in Ukraine, I knew exactly what needed to be done!” Yana said with deep emotion.

Experiencing Home Destruction Time and Again

“ The person I was before 2014 no longer exists; they took everything from me,” Yana reflects on the difficult years she has endured, “ Had I known that within 10 years I would lose my home twice, I would have tried to provide even more help to those who are helpless. Whenever I felt like I couldn’t go on, I thought of the innocent sufferers. I chose to take responsibility for them, and I couldn’t stop!”

In February 2022, she was forced to flee for her life once again. Just hours before Starobilsk was occupied by Russia, Yana and her husband, along with their dog, packed some documents and left the city that had become their second home. After several days on the road, they crossed the country and found temporary refuge in the Frankivsk region of western Ukraine.

Assisting Refugees in Finding New Employment and Starting a New Life

Facing the future, Yana’s vision extends far beyond short-term relief efforts. She is dedicated to creating a long-term solution aimed at helping displaced persons not just to survive, but to have the opportunity to rebuild their lives, whether in new communities or possibly returning to their homes someday.

She emphasizes, “ Rebuilding is not just about starting over; the most important thing is to restore hope for all displaced persons.” This includes advocating for the creation of basic services and job opportunities, as well as establishing a support system to help people deal with the traumas and losses left by war.

Yana Liubymova: Everyone Can Still Hold Hope for “ Home ” 

Through her efforts, Yana Liubymova has become a beacon of hope for the homeless in Ukraine. She firmly believes that even in adversity, people can support each other and find the bright spots in life together. Through her actions and unwavering beliefs, Yana shows us that under future peace and stability, everyone can rediscover their sense of identity and belonging to “home”. Together with partners, she co-founded “The Effective Community,” a civil society organization aimed at helping displaced persons integrate into new communities—one of the main priorities for authorities and humanitarian agencies.

“ After the war broke out, I had a very strong sense of déjà vu—everyone needs food, a place to sleep, a place to wash, a safe haven.” Yana reminisces while speaking to a reporter: “ The war has touched every corner of Ukraine, no family is unaffected. Even if homes are destroyed, we can still strive to fill everyone with hope for home!”

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The post Yana Liubymova: The Voice of Hope for Ukraine’s Displaced – Chairman of the Luhansk Oblast Internal Displaced Persons Council first appeared on The Icons.

According to observations by 《The Icons》 interview team, many research findings were highly provocative, with each presenter delivering a compelling five-minute talk that captivated the audience. Attendees were deeply engaged and eager for more information.

“In recent years, interest in this field has been steadily rising, reflected in the increased demand for related courses, including a strong desire for majors and career development in ESG and BEES (Business, Energy, Environment, and Sustainability),” stated Dr. Sarah E. Light, Professor of Legal Studies and Business Ethics and the director of the Wharton Climate Center, in an interview with 《The Icons.》

The event, held on September 20th and organized by the ESG Advocacy Group of the Wharton Climate Center, attracted over 150 students, alumni, and scholars who came to learn about the latest research in the climate field.

Several professors and scholars provided their insights on various topics, including the disproportionate impact of climate change on global poverty and the challenges of setting ESG standards.

The format of the event was modeled after the popular “Iron Chef” competition and Wharton’s own “Iron Professor.” Following intense presentations, a lively Q&A session took place where the audience asked questions to the professors, reflecting their curiosity about collaboration within the faculty and across disciplines. Many professors emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, including the need for data analysis in research and community work.

Professor Eric Orts, Professor of Legal Studies and Business Ethics, expressed his hope for more cross-sector collaboration: “Scientists may get stuck in their own isolation. In the past, the academic publishing system didn’t truly encourage interdisciplinary work, so overall, I think we can do better in the future.”

The participants also paid tribute to the late Professor Howard Kunreuther, a world-renowned behavioral economist who passed away in August. Kunreuther, a co-founder of the Wharton Risk Management and Decision Processes Center, now renamed the Wharton Climate Center, was honored for his contributions to risk management.

“When it comes to sustainability, interdisciplinary research is imperative, and that is the current mission of the Wharton Climate Center. We are carrying Professor Kunreuther’s legacy and continuing to forge ahead,” said Dr. Sarah E. Light.

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The post Dr. Sarah E. Light, Professor of Legal Studies and Business Ethics at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania: When It Comes to Sustainability, Interdisciplinary Research is Imperative first appeared on The Icons.

Topco remains a decorated corporation despite heavy competition, including recognition as one of Taiwan’s Top 100 Sustainable Enterprise by CommonWealth Magazine, winning the Bronze Award in the APSAA Asia Pacific and Taiwan Sustainable Action Awards, and being listed among the Top 100 Sustainable Exemplars in the TCSA Taiwan Corporate Sustainability Awards.

Recently, Topco’s subsidiary ECO Technical Services Corporation received the 2023 National Excellent Construction Award for the Taitang Huwei Modernized Agriculture Circular Livestock Farm project.  Another subsidiary, Anyong Freshmart, has garnered attention for introducing the market’s first “carbon-labeled fish essence product in Taiwan.” 

“As global awareness for food safety and the environment rises,” Vice Chairman Lai Shang-Gui stated, “our subsidiary Anyong Freshmart is constructing the health industry with a technological mindset, incorporating healthy dietary concepts.”

Intelligent Pig Farms — Win Win Win for Livestock, Environment, and Energy

Visiting ECO Technical Services Corporation’s modernized circular livestock farm, one can witness a newly constructed enclosed negative-pressure water curtain production environment, effectively reducing the odor from pig farming. It also provides cooling and ventilation, enhancing the breeding and reproductive capabilities of pigs while increasing productivity and improving animal welfare.

This intelligent pig farm concept adopts a resource recycling approach, converting waste into renewable energy and reducing water consumption through automated water drinkers and rainwater purification, cutting water usage by two thirds. “The sludge and liquid waste generated by the pigs are recycled into biogas for electricity generation, reducing methane emissions and increasing green energy supply,” explained Lai Shang-Gui.

The green energy and water-saving designs annually reduce carbon emissions by 2,000 metric tons, equivalent to the carbon absorption of 130,000 trees in one year.  With rooftop solar panels, the site generates an estimated 3.8 million kilowatt-hours of green electricity annually, enough to power 1,084 households for a year.

Fish-Energy Symbiosis — Revolutionizing the Industry towards Global Net Zero Carbon

To further promote green consumption among consumers, Lai Shang-Gui mentioned that their flagship product, “Anyong Fish Essence,” has undergone a carbon footprint assessment as Taiwan’s first fish essence product with a carbon label. The group commits to investing NT$3 to 6 billion annually to integrate solar power stations and environmental projects, aiming to rejuvenate the industry through “fish-energy symbiosis” and align with global net-zero carbon emissions.

“We collaborate with farmers and local fishermen to improve fishing yields using intelligent farming models, employing AIoT and big data,” said Lai Shang-Gui. Anyong Freshmart ensures quality control throughout the production, feed, and farming process, establishing a billion-dollar integrated supply chain. With semiconductor-grade equipment and technology, they safeguard food safety, care for the land, and achieve sustainability.

As a member of the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi), Topco Scientific Corporation commits to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 through the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) ISO14001 and ISO50001 environmental and energy management systems.

“Topco has long pioneered green energy technology development, excelling in liquid and solvent waste recycling, sludge transportation and management, and biogas power generation,” said Lai Shang-Gui.

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The post Semiconductor Materials Giant Leads the Way in Sustainability – Topco Scientific Corporation Vice Chairman Lai Shang-Gui: Adopting New Strategies in the Health Industry to Address Global Issues first appeared on The Icons.

This article highlights how Taiwan Excellence Award recipient Planet Technology Corporation practices sustainability throughout their modus operandi: lead through innovation and example.

Local business turned ESG flagship corporation

Planet CEO Mr. Chen Ching Gang grew up as a farmer’s son, believing in sweat and toil he envisioned the company as a nexus of value and influence in Taiwan through local development and international recognition.

In 1990 Mr. Chen Ching Gang, witnessing the dawning of the digital age and the computer’s potential, set off on the road of entrepreneurship.  Focusing on branding and R&D, the company integrated the personal computer with industrial hardware, standardizing manufacturing and leaving room for future software development and improvement as relevant technologies advance.  Soon he received a contract from Germany, paving the way for future international collaborations.

ICT Village: Greater than the sum of its parts

A Taiwanese local business with contracts with over 140 nations, Planet takes advantage of the ICT Village: decentralized technologies, rapid transportation, and diverse talent pool gathers the top corporations from each field of expertise, facilitating seamless integration and collaboration, achieving a sum greater than its parts, earning contracts from all over the world.

Mr. Chen Ching Gang himself developed a unique 3R strategy: right time, right price, and right product.  A thorough understanding of the target audience and capitalizing on market opportunities is key to success, providing the right services at the right moment to the right people.

Life is good, but it can be better

Growing up as a farmer’s son, Mr. Chen Ching Gang never neglected his duty and responsibility to give back to the community that raised him, promoting education and mental health for vulnerable children since 2005, and pushing for use of cellulose decomposing bacteria as replacement for traditional field burning since 2021, cutting over one third of the co2 emissions.

Yet as climate awareness rose ESG implementation has reached a much more matured state on the international stage.  Cisco Systems, Inc. has maintained for the past three years over 80% employee participation in local charity work, over 60% self identified African Americans throughout the corporate ladder, and received the 2023 Great Place to Work award.

Cisco has long devoted itself to management, climate restoration, digital learning and economic equality.  Through those plans Cisco has contributed to the lives of almost nine hundred million people around the world with almost five hundred million dollars donated.

Cisco has donated equipment over six million dollars in value, three million dollars in financial aid, and over 150 million dollars in employee donations to over 25 nations.  During the Russo Ukrainian Conflict Cisco has donated equipment over six million dollars in value for emergency network restoration to non profit organizations, United Nations agencies, and the Ukrainian government.  The Cisco Crisis Response Team arrived at Krakow, Poland to work with local volunteers to establish stable communication for relevant units.

In environmental protection the Cisco Foundation promised eleven million dollars in funding for climate solutions, setting the goal for the corporation to be carbon neutral by 2040.  Cisco has achieved 89% green energy consumption, holding first place on Gartner’s top 25 supply chain for three consecutive years.  Cisco demonstrates the comprehensivity and precision of sustainability practices for an international industry leader.

The post Planet Technology Corporation Chairman Chen Ching Gang: Key to Industry Sustainability in Innovation, Design, and Branding first appeared on The Icons.

When we look back at Coco Lee’s music, it’s not hard to feel the love for the world in all of them. Looking at the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we can see that Coco Lee is a powerful motivator who has been changing the world with her talent, gifts, and love.

The SDGs are the 17 goals identified by the United Nations through the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. They aim to address global environmental, economic, and social issues and propose concrete solutions in order to fulfill the mission of building a peaceful, secure, prosperous, and just world, with the ultimate goal of making the lives of all human beings in the world better.

The First Chinese Singer to Perform at the Oscars, Dedicated to Speaking Out for the Chinese People

Born in New York City on November 1, 1975, Coco Lee’s musical style spans pop, dance, R&B, and jazz. With her soulful and infectious voice, Coco Lee has won the hearts of countless people and has quickly become one of Asia’s brightest stars with her musical talent.

One of the goals of SDG Sustainable Development Goal 10 “Eliminate Inequality” is to enable different races to enjoy equal and fair resources and the opportunity to express themselves to the world. Coco Lee was one of the most outstanding Chinese singers when she entered the U.S. music scene in 1999 and sang the theme song of the classic movie “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” by director Ang Lee, “A Love Before Time“. She was nominated for the 73rd Oscars, and the song was nominated for the 73rd Academy Award for Best Original Song, making her the first Chinese singer to perform at the Oscars.

A role model for women in Asia, promoting equal rights for same-sex marriages

Coco Lee was also the voice of the animated version of “Mulan” and the original singer of the Chinese theme song “Self” in the live-action version of “Mulan”, including the aforementioned “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” theme song, and the female anthem “Knife and Horse Dance”. She has quickly become one of the most influential Chinese female singers in the world and a role model for female empowerment in Asia. She is also a voice for SDG Sustainable Development Goal 10, “Eliminate Inequality”, as well as a revered practitioner of SDG Sustainable Development Goal 5, “Achieve Gender Equality and Empower Women”.

Speaking of gender equality, Coco Lee has also been a supporter of the LGBT community. In recent years, she joined forces with five other divas, including Kenny Tsai, Ai Yi-liang, Cherie Leung, Gigi Leung, and Hsu Ru-wan, to speak out on the issue of transnational same-sex marriages. This was in response to the “Crossing the Oceans to See You” fundraising project. At that time, in order to convey the new age thinking of not being framed by traditional concepts, she emphasized that love does not discriminate between genders. She even said to the world in the camera with deep emotion, “The most everyday happiness after marriage is to say good morning to your other half every day.”

The warm-hearted act of helping the poor is not to be left behind.

Coco Lee, already a diva in the music industry, has not forgotten to actively participate in various charitable activities in addition to her musical achievements. She has been actively participating in various charitable activities and has even taken the lead in urging artists to participate in these activities. Coco Lee helped an elderly man in Changsha, China, sell over 200,000 pounds of mandarin oranges for fear of them freezing in the cold weather. She has also donated materials to help fulfill SDGs 1 and 2, which aim to “end poverty” and “eradicate hunger” whenever a disaster strikes.

After the Sichuan earthquake, Coco Lee attended the SCMP House of Hope charity dinner at the Shangri-La in Hong Kong, where a number of Hong Kong’s business giants were present. She actively used her influence to raise funds for the victims and said at the time, “The Sichuan earthquake has made me realize that I have to cherish life and the people around me. I have to be optimistic and positive when I encounter any difficulties, and I have to have hope in everything.”

A huge loss for the music industry! Defying depression and creating everlasting memories with her classics

Due to her left leg’s birth defect, Coco basically relies on her right leg to support her on stage every time she sings or dances. Coco once said, “After every rehearsal or concert, my leg hurts like hell, but I never let people see my painful side. I just want to present my best side to everyone, and as long as everyone is happy, it’s worth the pain.”

In recent years, Coco Lee has undergone surgery for a recurrence of an old foot injury and has been battling depression for many years. The process has been very difficult, and before she underwent surgery this year, she wrote on her Facebook page, “Now I’m a woman warrior facing a big challenge again.”

Even though she has left the world, apart from her music and songs, from the perspective of a world leader in practicing sustainability, her love, just like her songs, will remain in the hearts of the world forever.

The post In Addition to Her Music, CoCo Lee Left the World with the Priceless Spirit of Sustainability of the SDGs! first appeared on The Icons.

One popular product of Nuwa Robotics is the commercial service robot, which can be well-utilized in the service industry. Featuring a stylish and modern design, it can seamlessly blend into any environment and not only execute a series of tasks such as delivering meals and drinks and cleaning tables but also relay messages to guests.

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Nuwa Robotics’ commitment to sustainable development aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Their products have contributed to multiple SDGs, including Goal 9 “Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure,” Goal 11 “Sustainable Cities and Communities,” and Goal 12 “Responsible Consumption and Production.”

Nuwa Robotics’ commitment to sustainable development and innovation is paving the way for a more sustainable future, where robots and humans can work together to build a better world. Their latest products are not only efficient, eco-friendly, but also user-friendly, which everyone can use. By utilizing Nuwa Robotics’ technology, businesses can improve efficiency, reduce their carbon footprint, and contribute to a better future for everyone.

The post Let the Robot Help You! Taiwanese Nuwa Robotics Creates the Latest AI Robots for Delivering Meals, Chatting, and Cleaning Tables! first appeared on The Icons.