【2026 Training Course III】From ESG to Impact: Rethinking the True Meaning of Sustainability

True sustainability is not simply about what organisations do, but whether their actions create measurable, verifiable, and lasting change for society and the environment.

Now in its fourth year, the iNGO Academy held its third training course session, welcoming distinguished speaker Jack Huang, Consultant to the United Nations Office of Information and Communications Technology ( #UNOICT) and Researcher at the United Nations Multi-Country Office for Micronesia. Drawing on frameworks promoted by the United Nations Development Programme ( #UNDP), he introduced students to the principles and practical applications of “Impact Measurement and Management” ( #IMM).

Throughout the course, Jack explored the evolution from #ESG towards impact-driven approaches, the growing global debate surrounding greenwashing, and emerging developments in sustainable finance and impact investment.

Students also took part in a climate change simulation workshop, where they were challenged to rethink sustainability from multiple perspectives — including government, business, farmers, and local communities. Working with realistic resource constraints, participants practised balancing environmental, social, and economic considerations while navigating competing priorities and stakeholder interests.