Leading CEOs from Vietnamese and German businesses have taken a strong stand on promoting sustainable development through responsible use of natural resources at a forum held on Wednesday in Ha Noi.

The event, titled “Beyond APEC 2017 – Sustainable development opportunities for corporate sector,” was organised by WWF-Vietnam in partnership with the Ha Noi Young Enterprise Association.

At the event, participants committed to becoming prominent “agents for change” in efforts to protect wildlife by stopping the illegal consumption of wildlife products, which is also integrated in the corporate social responsibility policies of companies. They selected the rhino for the symbolic protection of a flagship species in response to the increasing call for saving the world’s largest mammal from the risk of extinction.

“Human beings are heading for catastrophe due to natural disasters, including rising sea level, deforestation, floods and climate change due to unsustainable development. A sixth mass extinction in earth’s history and the loss of 75 per cent of species is underway, and is more severe than previously feared. It means we are facing a natural resource crisis,” Van Ngoc Thinh, WWF-Vietnam, said.

“Demand for wildlife products, including rhino horn in Viet Nam, is a typical driver of the earth’s mass extinction. We highly appreciate the commitment of these leading CEOs to become champion in efforts to deter illegal use of wildlife products,” Thinh stressed.

“Global economic integration has posed great challenges to businesses operating in Viet Nam. However, it also creates opportunity, while compliance of international standards on labour, environment protection and responsible use of natural resources help enhance competitiveness of domestic enterprises,” member of the National Council for Sustainable Development and Competitiveness Pham Chi Lan said.

“In this world of globalisation, community social responsibility is no longer a ’knee-jerk’ reaction. It’s a necessity,” Lan added. — VNS