GCN, UNDP hold first PLG session on sustainable finance

KATHMANDU: Global Compact Nepal (GCN), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), organised the first session of the Sustainable Finance Peer Learning Group (PLG) at UN House, Pulchowk, Lalitpur, on September 25. The session marked the beginning of a six-part monthly series aimed at helping businesses integrate sustainability and climate considerations into financial strategies.

The event opened with remarks from Krishna Shah, Executive Director of GCN, who emphasised the urgency of collaboration to move sustainable finance from theory to action. A technical session led by Deepak KC, Programme Analyst at UNDP, introduced participants to Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and underlined the role of the private sector in meeting climate targets.

Ineej Manandhar, Climate Finance Lead at UNDP, led a deep-dive session on the role of the private sector and alternative sources of finance in advancing sustainability. Sandeep Shrestha, Director and Founder of Sustainability Solutions, gave a contextual overview of sustainable finance in Nepal and explained how ESG-aligned investment decisions support long-term resilience and competitiveness.

An interactive question-and-answer session fostered peer learning and practical exchange among participants. The programme concluded with remarks from Julien Chevillard, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP, and representatives from GCN, followed by a networking session.

The event attracted more than 45 participants and demonstrated growing private sector commitment to responsible financial practices that support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To mark SDG Flag Day, GCN and UNDP raised the SDG flag at UN House and took a group photograph with participants to reaffirm their commitment to the 2030 Agenda.