Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies (AIS) Sustainability Seminar Series Spring 2026 - Beyond Carbon: Why Nature Risk Is Business Risk
Supporting the below United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:支持以下聯合國可持續發展目標：支持以下联合国可持续发展目标：
As the risks of biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse intensify, businesses face growing exposure to nature-related dependencies and impacts that directly affect their long-term resilience. To navigate these challenges, the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) has developed a global framework to help organisations identify, assess, manage, and, where appropriate, disclose nature-related risks and opportunities. Over 620 organisations across 50+ markets, representing more than USD 20 trillion in assets under management, have already committed to aligning with the TNFD recommendations.
As a member of the TNFD Taskforce, Patrick Ho will introduce the TNFD framework and explain the evolving business case for nature-positive action — illustrating how organisations can strengthen risk management, unlock strategic opportunities, and future-proof their operations through nature-related reporting and governance.
In the second part of the presentation, Patrick will explore the concept of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) — actions that protect, sustainably manage, and restore ecosystems to address societal challenges while enhancing biodiversity. Using Taikoo Square and Taikoo Garden as case studies for Swire properties, he will demonstrate how urban greening initiatives can simultaneously foster biodiversity, enhance climate resilience, and create long-term value for both people and the planet.
Date
22 Apr 2026 (Wed)
Time
12:00pm-1:30pm (HKT)
Format
In-person & Zoom
Venue
Room 4503, Lift 25-26, Academic Building, HKUST
Topic
“Beyond Carbon: Why Nature Risk Is Business Risk”
Speaker
Mr Patrick Ho, Head of Sustainable Development, Swire Properties & Member of Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD)
Moderator
Prof. Laurence Delina, Associate Professor, Division of Environment and Sustainability, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Registration
Mr Patrick Ho is responsible for formulating and executing a corporate sustainability strategy for Swire Properties’ global operations across Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and the U.S.A. portfolios. Through engaging stakeholders, setting targets and developing action plans, he leads a team to manage the full spectrum of the Company’s environmental, social and economic impact and to integrate ESG considerations into every facet of Swire Properties’ business.
Patrick is a Board Director of the Business Environment Council and the Chair of their Nature & Biodiversity Advisory Group. He sits on the Corporate Advisory Board of the World Green Building Council and is a Board Member of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) Built Environment Pathway. He is a member of the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) and the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) Expert Advisory Group for the Building Sector, and a member of the Real Estate Standard Committee of the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB).
Mr Ho is a Chartered Environmentalist, a Chartered Member of the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM), HKIQEP Professional Member and a Certified Carbon Auditor Professional.