Speech by Vladanka Andreeva, UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, at the launch of the AmCham Sustainability Handbook

It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to the launch of the Sustainability Handbook, an event that we are jointly organizing with AmCham under the umbrella of the UN family in Azerbaijan initiative "29 Climate Conversations: The Road to COP29" initiative. 

The climate crisis we face today presents profound challenges, but it also offers opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and transformative change. 

AmCham Sustainability Handbook was designed to provide comprehensive guideline for integrating sustainability principles into both public and private sector strategies and operations -  an action call to foster a culture of sustainability, and promotion of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.

The Handbook is a roadmap for businesses and organizations to navigate the complexities of ESG integration. It provides actionable strategies and practical insights, empowering entities to align their operations with global sustainability standards and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

For example, the handbook highlights the importance of capacity building for sustainable development, emphasizing continuous learning to equip employees with the necessary skills and knowledge to implement sustainable practices effectively, that in return  can drive innovation and improve long-term profitability. 

Moreover, the handbook underscores the critical role of partnerships and collaboration in achieving sustainability goals. By forming inclusive networks that welcome participants from various sectors, organizations can leverage diverse perspectives and resources to develop innovative solutions. 

This collaborative approach not only enhances operational resilience but also contributes to broader social and environmental benefits.

UN Azerbaijan "29 Climate Conversations" initiative aims to raise awareness on climate change and inspire collective climate action ahead of COP 29 that will be hosted in Baku. 

And I hope today’s dialog will contribute to better understanding of the important role private sector has to ensure a greener, more sustainable future for future generations

As the UN in Azerbaijan, we are fully committed to supporting the COP29 Presidency and engaging with all stakeholders to drive climate action across the country. 

Thank you!