GW4 Sustainable Finance Network

Project overview

The project will create a network of researchers from the disciplines of finance and environmental sciences, organising seminars and workshops, with the ultimate aim of shaping policy for the transition towards a sustainable economy.

Community lead

University of Bath: Dr Xiaohan Xue (PI); Dr. Chenchen Huang; Dr. Winifred Huang; Dr. Hanwen Sun; Dr. Ru Xie

University of Exeter: Dr. Wei Xin; Professor Chendi Zhang

Cardiff University: Dr. Onur Tosun; Professor Qingwei Wang

University of Bristol: Professor Neslihan Ozkan; Dr. Fangming Xu

Awarded

July 2024

Project Summary

Sustainable Finance is about integrating environmental, social and governance factors into investment decision-making. The goal of sustainable finance is to minimize the environmental impact of business operations while still securing long-term financial returns. A strategic approach to finance and investment is essential for mitigating climate change and advancing the transition towards net-zero emissions. Research in this area is therefore crucial as the region and the UK continues its net-zero mission. This pioneering GW4 research community aims to serve as a dynamic hub for the region and beyond, uniting key players across the sectors of academia, industry, local communities, and government. It features researchers from both finance and environmental science to create a multidisciplinary approach offering unique research insights. The community will organise a two-day conference in Bath exploring specific themes in sustainable economics and finance, and identifying potential collaboration for research and further funding. The aim is to create the first resilient, long-term sustainable finance research community within GW4.