From Forests to Markets: Innovative Approaches to Sustainability
Forrest Kwan (forrest.kwan@ust.hk)
[This event is co-organized by HKUST Connect and the Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies]
Join us for an inspiring talk by Dr Michelle Wong on the critical role of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) in promoting sustainable forestry practices. Forests are vital ecosystems that provide clean air, support biodiversity, and act as carbon sinks, helping to combat climate change. Discover how FSC initiatives significantly impact environmental conservation and why understanding these efforts is essential for our future.
Dr Wong will share her journey in sustainability and discuss the challenges and opportunities within the field. Attendees will receive recommendations on how to contribute to social impact and address global warming. Don’t miss this chance to learn how we can all make a difference!
Speaker:
Dr Michelle Wong
Deputy Regional Director of Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) Asia-Pacific
Dr Michelle Wong serves as the Deputy Regional Director of the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) Asia-Pacific, bringing over two decades of expertise in environmental science and policy to the role. Her extensive contributions have spanned critical areas such as air quality, climate mitigation and adaptation, biodiversity conservation, urban planning, and sustainable building practices.
Michelle’s unique blend of academic rigor and hands-on experience—gained from her work in universities, NGOs, and policy think tanks—has been pivotal in facilitating environmental education and evidence-based policymaking in Hong Kong.
Currently, Michelle is at the forefront of efforts to ensure compliance with the EU Deforestation-free Regulation (EUDR), a vital initiative in combating climate change and safeguarding biodiversity. She is also leading initiatives to enhance forest management by encouraging corporate efforts to create nature-positive impacts and develop ESG disclosure strategies that align economic practices with environmental stewardship.
Outside of her professional scope, Michelle is an avid nature enthusiast and engages in various artistic endeavours, embodying a well-rounded approach to both life and leadership.
Remarks:
1. To avoid interruption and hindering the progress of the session, facilitators may not admit new participants who are late for more than 10 minutes.
2. [HMAW1905] This is a recognized event in the “Self-directed Experience” component of HMAW1905: Behavioral Foundations of University Education: Habits, Mindsets, and Wellness. To receive 1.25 hour, you must attend the event in full and miss no more than 10 minutes.