The guiding theme “Sustainability – Divisive Issue or Guiding Principle” sparked intense debates. Thorsten Pinkepank opened the plenary discussions with inspiring words. Surprisingly, the majority of attendees perceived sustainability more as a divisive issue rather than a guiding principle.

Alternative perspectives were provided by the keynote speech of Prof. Armin Nassehi, titled “Rethinking Transformation.” Additionally, various workshops and discussions were held throughout the morning and afternoon on topics such as Hashtag#CSRD, living wages, Hashtag#circulareconomy and integrity, as well as just transition, climate transition plans, sustainable finance, gender equality, and AI. The workshop on “Science-based Targets for Nature” outlined the approaches of the initiative that supports defining targets for water and land use.

In the discussion “Does Populism Endanger the Economy?” all participants were able to clearly answer with yes, and solutions from a business perspective were discussed. One conclusion:

• Taking responsibility as a company rather than delegating it
• Recognizing and actively help reducing employees’ fears
• Combating misinformation through education and awareness

Many thanks to the organizers for the event and to the participants for the engaging exchange.