Asia needs to hurry towards net zero : Zurich HK CEO

Eric Hui, CEO of Zurich Insurance (Hong Kong) and chairman of the Hong Kong Federation of Insurers Task Force on Green Insurance, discussed digitisation, ESG strategies, and the impact of global trends on Asia during his talk with EAIC Today. Hui emphasized the increasing significance of these issues worldwide and the progress made in the Asian market, while also acknowledging the untapped potential in the region. Hui believes that technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), will drive further transformation in the insurance industry. He mentioned that digitizing policies is already underway to make them more user-friendly, with more advancements expected. However, he also recognized the challenges faced by smaller insurers in Hong Kong due to limited resources for tech investments. Regarding sustainable goals, Hui focused on climate resilience and Zurich s commitment to environmental sustainability. He highlighted the organization s accountability at all levels, especially among top leadership, and the close monitoring of ESG targets. Zurich s reforestation project in Brazil, aimed at carbon sequestration, was cited as an example of real actions taken to help the environment. Hui also addressed the complexities of supporting high-emission industries in Asia, such as agriculture and oil and gas production. He stressed the need for collaboration between governments, industries, and technology providers to transition these sectors to net-zero carbon emissions. Insurers, according to Hui, play a crucial role in guiding and protecting industries during this transition to a low-carbon economy. In summary, Eric Hui emphasized the importance of digitisation, ESG strategies, and collaboration in the Asian insurance industry. He highlighted the progress made in the region, the challenges faced by smaller insurers, and the need for joint efforts to achieve climate resilience and sustainable goals.

Source: intelligentinsurer.com
Published on 2024-09-26