Global Leaders Collaborate for Sustainable Future in Guilin

The 2025 Integral Conversation concluded in Guilin, China, on November 1, 2025, bringing together nearly 300 leaders from various sectors to discuss the integration of sustainability into future systems. Hosted by the Integral Institute, this three-day event focused on the theme “Universe, Earth & Humanity in Harmony: Designing Systems for a Balanced Future.” Participants engaged in dialogue across four thematic forums: Agriculture, Technology, Industry, and Education.

At the opening of the event on October 30, Edgar Tung, Council Member of the Integral Institute and CEO of Tessellation Group, emphasized the necessity of redefining progress through balance and interconnection. He stated, “True sustainability is about restoring ecosystems, supporting human well-being, and transforming industries to be resilient for the long haul.” This sentiment set the tone for the discussions that followed.

In a Fireside Chat moderated by Professor Wang Tianyi, Daniel Zhang, Managing Partner of Firstlight Capital, drew parallels between natural ecosystems and business practices. He argued that a successful business ecosystem should embody the principles of nature, such as diversity and adaptability. Exceptional leaders, he noted, are those who guide their teams confidently amid uncertainty.

On October 31, Teresa Yang, Vice Chairman of Esquel Group, showcased how the Integral site exemplifies sustainable practices through scientific planning and innovation. Her organization was recently recognized as one of China’s first certified Zero-Carbon Parks. She remarked, “Sustainability is not a goal we set for the future, but a commitment we live every day.”

The event received notable support from local government. Sun Huan Zhi, Vice Mayor of the Guilin Municipal People’s Government, praised the Integral Institute for promoting sustainability. He noted that the event aligns with Guilin’s objectives of becoming a world-class tourism destination while supporting green industrial growth.

The opening ceremony also featured a keynote address by Irene Lee, Chairman of Hysan Development Company Limited. In her speech, moderated by Professor Christine Loh, she highlighted Hysan’s century-long journey in balancing heritage and innovation. “True urban development lies in respecting the past while shaping a connected, sustainable future,” she stated.

A “CEO Plenary” fostered discussions among business leaders from technology, finance, and cultural sectors on how harmony can facilitate sustainable transformation. Participants highlighted the importance of aligning commercial success with social and environmental value, advocating for a balanced approach to growth.

The thematic forums delved deeper into specific sectors. In the “Regenerative Land: Where Vineyards Meet Verse” session, Dan Fishman, Vice President of Winemaking and Vineyards at The Donum Estate, discussed sustainable vineyard management. He illustrated how fine winemaking can restore biodiversity and enhance human-nature connections.

The forum titled “Fashioning Harmony: From Growth to Balance,” led by Christiane Dolva from the H&M Foundation, addressed the fashion industry’s role in achieving sustainability. She emphasized the need for a balance between innovation and practical realities, stating, “Achieving a climate-neutral industry requires finding balance between innovation and reality, speed and patience.”

In the “Technology with Purpose” forum, Heng Li Lang from Temasek Foundation discussed innovative climate solutions founded on a “triple bottom line” approach. She asserted, “A truly sustainable solution must be environmentally sound, socially meaningful, and economically effective.”

The final thematic discussion, “Laying the Groundwork: Educating the Next Global Generation,” featured Lillian Kiang, CEO of Bei Shan Tang Foundation. She emphasized the significance of emotional well-being in education, stating, “Prioritizing emotional well-being in education does not diminish achievement; it helps students stay balanced and resilient.”

In closing remarks, Professor Hau Lee, Council Chair of Integral Institute, underscored the Integral Conversation’s role as a platform for turning ideas into actionable solutions. He stated, “We must continue to reflect, seek harmony and inclusiveness amid differing goals and perspectives, and move forward together to build a more resilient future.”

Now in its twelfth year, the Integral Conversation has convened over 3,000 representatives from more than 100 industries since its inception in 2014. The event aims to foster ongoing dialogue and collaboration on sustainable development, ensuring that diverse voices contribute to shaping a balanced future. The Integral Institute, as the event’s organizer, remains committed to empowering individuals and organizations to explore sustainability at various levels through education and research.