On 17 September 2024, the SMU Sustainability Forum brought together some 200 participants, including students, faculty, and industry leaders, to address pressing environmental challenges and explore collaborative pathways for building climate resilience. Now in its second year since its launch on 20 September 2023, the Forum has become a key platform for meaningful dialogue and action.
This year’s event commenced with a warm welcome from Professor Timothy Clark, Provost of SMU, setting the stage for a series of impactful discussions focused on advancing sustainability efforts.
Guest-of-honour Mr Baey Yam Keng, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) and the Ministry of Transport (MOT) delivered the opening address. He highlighted the urgent climate challenges facing Singapore and the world and underscored the importance of collaboration among the government, industry, and Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) in achieving climate resilience. Mr Baey also cited key initiatives such as Cooling Singapore 2.0 and the Singapore Green Finance Centre as vital projects that foster innovative solutions for sustainability.
Frederick Teo, CEO of GenZero, delivered a keynote address offering insights into the role of investment in climate action. GenZero, an investment platform company founded by Temasek Holdings, focuses on accelerating global decarbonisation while delivering long-term sustainable financial returns. It also emphasises addressing the "energy trilemma," which encompasses economic viability, energy security, and environmental sustainability, and advocates for urgent action to catalyse change in the fight against climate change.
During the Forum, the SMU Sustainability Report 2023/2024, which outlines the University’s commitment to sustainability and to supporting and promoting the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through education, research and operations, was unveiled.
SMU’s Sustainability Blueprint also supports several key targets of the Singapore Green Plan 2030 through the pillars of Sustainable Living, Energy Reset, Green Economy and Resilient Future.
A thought-provoking panel discussion titled "Doing Our Part: IHLs' Climate Resilience Agenda", moderated by Professor Winston Chow, Professor of Urban Climate at SMU, provided insights into the sustainability efforts and outcomes within IHLs. Panellists included Mr Lim Boon Wee, Senior Vice President, Administration, SMU, Ms Low Khah Gek, CEO, Institute of Technical Education (ITE), and Mr Soh Wai Wah, Principal & CEO, Singapore Polytechnic.
A key insight that emerged from the discussion was the importance of a mindset shift in addressing climate challenges. Panellists emphasised that fostering a culture of sustainability requires not only institutional commitment but also a change in individual behaviours and attitudes.
The discussion also highlighted the potential for collaboration between institutions, industries, and communities to ideate and implement impactful solutions. By recognising the urgency of climate action and the interconnectedness of various initiatives, institutions can work together more effectively. This mindset shift is crucial for driving collective action and ensuring that sustainability practices are embedded within all levels of society.
At the Forum, participants also attended a workshop showcasing SMU’s efforts to drive meaningful impact in its pursuit of climate resilience, through research initiatives, community engagement efforts, and sustainable campus infrastructure. Professor Winston Chow introduced the Cooling SG Project, which focused on innovative strategies for urban climate adaptation. Ms Devi, Head of the Centre for Social Responsibility, highlighted the critical role of education and community engagement in cultivating a culture of sustainability. Mr Sundaravadivelan Selvam, Vice President of Campus Infrastructure and Services, shared effective practices in infrastructure development and campus operations aimed at enhancing sustainability initiatives.
The event concluded with the presentation of the SMC Student Sustainability Award, recognising students who have spearheaded sustainable initiatives that made positive contributions to the University and/or the community.
This year’s SMU Sustainability Forum was once again a powerful platform for collaboration and innovation in tackling climate challenges, reinforcing the message that sustainability is a shared responsibility for all.