Trade For Tomorrow: A Sustainable Path | Half-Day Conference | 10 February 2026
Annual half day conference hosted by the APPG for the UN Global Goals and ICC United Kingdom, supported by The Coalition for Global Prosperity
In today’s interconnected world, trade must evolve to drive sustainable economic growth while safeguarding the environment, promoting social equity, and upholding human rights. With roughly four years remaining to deliver the UN’s 2030 Agenda—and only around 17% of its Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets on track—there is an urgent need for greater ambition. Climate change, biodiversity loss, geopolitical instability, and growing expectations for responsible business practices make the transformation of global trade systems more critical than ever.
This half-day conference, hosted by the APPG for the UN Global Goals and ICC United Kingdom, supported by The Coalition for Global Prosperity, will explore how businesses, financial institutions, and policymakers can lead this shift towards sustainable, transparent, and responsible trade.
Through discussions on sustainable trade finance, digital transformation, human rights, and innovation, the event will examine how technology, nature-based solutions, and trade finance can reshape global supply chains. By convening business leaders, policymakers, and financial experts, we aim to foster meaningful dialogue on how trade can serve as a catalyst for innovation, sustainability, and inclusive economic growth.
As the global landscape continues to shift, the role of trade in building a resilient and sustainable future has never been more urgent. This conference will provide a platform for actionable insights and collaborations to ensure trade remains a force for good—balancing economic ambition with environmental and social responsibility.
Registration, coffee, networking
Welcome remarks
Keynote 1: Trade, Growth, and Sustainability – The Future of UK Business
Panel 1: Sustainable Trade and Growth – Can Trade Be Green and Profitable?
This session will focus on the intersection of sustainability and trade, examining the business case for green finance, responsible supply chains, and ESG-driven investment. Experts will discuss how companies can align their growth strategies with sustainability commitments in a challenging economic and geopolitical climate.
Topics for Discussion:
- How financial institutions can support sustainable trade through green finance and ESG-linked investments.
- The impact of geopolitical risks and regulatory challenges on trade sustainability.
- Consumer-driven demand for sustainable products and its influence on business models.
- The role of UK businesses in fostering supply chain resilience and ethical sourcing.
Keynote 2: The Nature Agenda – Why Biodiversity Matters for Global Trade
Panel 2: Nature, Biodiversity, and Trade – How Can Business Align with the Green Transition
COP30 in Brazil has placed nature and biodiversity at the heart of climate action. This panel will explore how trade policies and business practices can integrate nature-positive approaches. Sustainable trade is not just about reducing emissions; it must also protect ecosystems and biodiversity. This session will delve into nature-based solutions, ethical sourcing, and supply chain responsibility.
Topics for Discussion:
- The role of biodiversity in global supply chains and trade agreements.
- How nature-based solutions can support sustainable economic growth.
- The regulatory and financial challenges of transitioning to sustainable trade models.
- Case studies of companies embedding nature into their sustainability strategies.
Closing remarks