This episode features a conversation between Phil Dillard, Founder of Thruline Networks, and Coco Zhang, Vice President of ESG Research at ING, a pioneer in digital banking and on the forefront being one of the most innovative banks in the world.

Coco actively provides analysis and engages with stakeholders on energy transition, climate change, sustainable finance, clean technology adoption, and environmental, social and governance regulation topics. 

Prior to joining ING, Coco held positions with Eurasia Group, as well as United Nations agencies in New York, Geneva, and Paris. She has also done consultancy work for the Mexican Energy Regulatory Commission to optimize Mexico's Clean Energy Certificate reform plan. 

Coco earned a bachelor's degree in government and film studies from Smith College, and a dual Master's degree in energy and the environment from Columbia University, and in international public management from Sciences Po Paris.

In this episode, Coco talks about her current role at ING, her background in ESG, the recent trends in the market today, and ESG trends in different countries around the globe.

Key Quote

“Learn more about what's going on in the climate change, sustainability, and ESG area. There’s a lot of good information sources for people to get more informed, but it also requires active thinking to filter out the noises that can be misinterpreted flying around the markets, but to get the essence of ESG and sustainability. On top of that, there is a great role for consumers to play as well. We might not be always incentivized to spend a premium to purchase a very sustainable product, but I think the trend is happening and a lot of the companies are indeed communicating with us to really build their brand, that puts accessibility at a center stage and as consumers we can eventually grow more of a willingness and habit to choose products in a very systematic way and ultimately live in a more systematic way. I think the demand side from consumers is something that's going to have a great impact on the economy as well.” - Coco Zhang

Episode Timestamps

(02:07) Coco’s role at ING

(07:05) Coco’s background in ESG

(11:50) Recent trends in the market

(19:54) ESG around the globe

(27:48) Final thoughts

Links

Coco’s LinkedIn

ING Website

Phil’s LinkedIn

Thruline Networks