ESG in Practice: People, Planet – and Profit

On May 21, the German Centre Shanghai brought together over 60 guests for a high-level event on “ESG in Sino-European Cooperation – Working Together for Sustainable Growth.”

The afternoon featured expert insights from industry leaders, legal advisors, and sustainability pioneers — shedding light on how European and Chinese companies can drive meaningful ESG transformation. The event was moderated by Peter Hergemöller 贺彼德 of the German Centre Shanghai, who guided the audience through the half-day program.

Lukas Meyer, Deputy Consul General and Head of the Economic Section at the Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany, emphasized the importance of the topic in his remarks. His presence underlined the relevance of ESG not only for the business community but also for German foreign policy and international cooperation.

Keynote speaker Holly Lei 雷焕丽 (Covestro China) opened with a powerful call for cross-border collaboration.

Anna Ereth-Wilhelm and gary zang (Rödl & Partner) broke down complex ESG regulations into clear, actionable strategies.

Sophia Slingerland (SHINE Ecological Technology / Ateliers-Phi) moderated the expert panel with depth and vision.

In the panel discussion, Christian Wiese (ZwickRoell China), Heidi Berg (Danish Industry China), Anna Ereth-Wilhelm and Holly Lei 雷焕丽 delivered hands-on perspectives from manufacturing, policy, and international business — turning abstract ESG goals into tangible, actionable strategies.

Extraordinarily complex ESG regulatory frameworks were distilled into practical insights that companies can implement immediately.

The speakers emphasized that people, planet, and profit are equally essential — and that companies are powerful drivers of change. Both SMEs and MNCs that embrace ESG not only enhance resilience but also sharpen their competitive edge.

Thanks to all supporters:

With strong support from Alexandra Runge of ADVANTAGE AUSTRIA, Pilar Vittoria Pesenti of SwissCham China, and Roedl & Partner China — in particular Ralph Koppitz for his personal engagement — the event offered valuable, first-hand perspectives from across sectors.