Ecology and Prosperity: Reflections from Singapore

I just had the amazing chance of visiting Singapore for Ecosperity Week, where they celebrate the synergy of Ecology and Prosperity through a series of conferences such as the GenZero Climate Summit among many other events. Here are some quick reflections after a short but very revealing trip.

Firstly, I was truly impressed by Singapore itself. I had heard of the miracle of this small island nation, which in only 60 years went from a third-world country to the one with the highest GDP per capita in the world! But experiencing the country firsthand was a whole different thing. The balance of ecology and prosperity is observable everywhere, as you walk between ultra-modern buildings and lush urban forests. Equally observable is the balance between free-market capitalism and intelligent government planning and incentives. The multiculturalism, the openness to new people and ideas, and in fact the eagerness to attract foreign entrepreneurs, was refreshing to experience in these strange times. Listening to leaders from government and business, I sensed a determined optimism in the midst of turbulence, a humble growth mindset, and a vision to lead toward a sustainable and prosperous future that left me sincerely inspired. Don't worry friends- I’m not moving to Singapore, but will definitely consider having a presence for Pachama there!

Secondly, it was interesting to get an Asian perspective on this moment in the world. I met executives from Japan, Korea, China, Thailand and Indonesia, in addition to many from Singapore. Upon hearing that I was coming from California, they often expressed their bewilderment about the USA: so much amazing innovation in AI coming from California, and yet such regressive trade, climate, and general policies coming from Washington, D.C. But conversations about the USA moved on quickly, shifting toward more global topics where they see Asian countries playing a leading role in an inevitably interconnected world—with strong coalitions like ASEAN and RCEP. I left with mixed feelings: on one hand, sad to see how America is perceived losing leadership in key global issues; on the other, happy to witness the rise of Asia in response to global challenges.

Finally, it was very encouraging to hear across all the panels and talks a strong call to act decisively in the face of climate change—to accelerate the transition to clean energy, protect and restore nature, and invest in adaptation, all while lifting vulnerable communities. It was great to see clear conviction on the need for effective carbon markets—both voluntary and compliance—and the business opportunity for visionary investors to finance the next generation of projects that will rise in value as we approach these deciding decades. While there was recognition of the current macroeconomic and geopolitical challenges that might lead to paralysis or delay, there was also a prevailing sense of urgency and opportunity. Overall, it felt like a breath of fresh air compared to the US, where so unfortunately “climate” has become a politically dangerous word (which I know will pass).

I’m back in California energized and grateful to have expanded my perspectives and my network—and excited to explore how we can collaborate with Asian organizations on the most important common mission for humanity in the 21st century: ensuring we leave a safe and sustainable world to future generations, enhancing ecology and prosperity for all. Many thanks to Ling Min Hoon, Frederick Teo and the rest of the GenZero team for the kind invitation!