Day 3 Highlights of the 2021 World Economic Forum Davos Agenda

We are highlighting the key themes from the World Economic Forum annual meeting this week, with a focus on how it is attempting to advance sustainability, equity, and purpose in capitalism.

Day 1 highlights | Day 2 highlights

Below are the highlights from Day 3 of the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting:

1. Want to green the globe? Go grassroots (TL;DR: Regreening relies on grassroots movements to change mindsets, evolve land management practices, and demand supportive policies. To make that happen, farmers, corporations, governments, and other stakeholders need to work together. Regreening Africa is an inspiring model for others to follow. Want to get more involved? The Bonn Challenge is looking to mobilize more support.)

2. Young leaders are leading the way to a more sustainable and equitable economy (TL;DR: Organizations that demonstrate responsible leadership out-perform the market and recruit better talent. According to Accenture’s 2020 COVID-19 research, “67% of respondents say that the COVID-19 pandemic has strengthened the need for greater business responsibility to improve societal and environmental outcomes”. The number one issues for youth? Climate action and diversity/equity/inclusion.)

3. We need meaningful metrics to advance progress towards a sustainable future (TL;DR: Big finance needs to do more to address climate change, and adapt to the fact that renewable energy is the future. Larry Fink wrote another letter to CEOs signaling this shift, stating that “the climate transition presents a historic investment opportunity.” New reports also highlight the importance of “natural climate solutions“, and corporate action on climate change is needed more than ever – the U.N. Global compact provides good guidance for how companies can contribute to addressing this existential threat.)

4. COVID further exposed the digital divide (TL;DR: Internet penetration in some countries is as low as 19%. Even in the most advanced economies, over 30% of people in rural areas may be without internet. Remittances are key to closing these gaps and facilitating an equitable recovery, which is crucial for building a future-ready workforce.)

There are still two days of the Davos Agenda remaining, and we expect the themes of sustainability, climate, and equity to continue taking center stage. Be sure to subscribe for updates for highlights from Day 4 & Day 5.