Experts from home and abroad gather in Guilin to discuss innovative development towards sustainable well-being

On October 18, the 11th “Shiru Dialogue” kicked off in Guilin, Guangxi, bringing together experts, scholars, and entrepreneurs from various fields both domestically and internationally. This year’s theme, “Towards Sustainable Well-Being,” highlighted four key areas: supply chains, nature and culture, social and economic innovation, and education, making it a significant platform for gathering wisdom and strength.

The event, held from October 17 to 19 at the Shiru Sustainable Development Park, showcased a waterless dyeing technology developed by participating companies. Attendees also learned about intelligent management, sustainable development principles, and a “people-centered” employment environment, as well as the potential for manufacturing to coexist harmoniously with nature. Each year, the “Shiru Dialogue” convenes experts and leaders from various fields to engage in in-depth discussions on comprehensive sustainable development.

During the event, participants engaged in open discussions, exploring innovative ideas and solutions for achieving sustainable well-being. They analyzed current challenges and opportunities, sharing insights and experiences to foster collaboration between individuals, organizations, and society.

Wannaporn Pui Phornprapha, founder of P Landscape from Thailand, shared her perspective during a panel discussion: “When we conduct landscape design projects in different countries, we make it a priority to understand and respect local cultures, environments, and customs. By incorporating cultural sensitivity, sustainability, and well-being principles into these projects, we deepen the harmonious relationship between people and nature.”

Emily Ma, a visiting lecturer in entrepreneurship at Stanford University focused on reducing food waste, expressed her hopes for leveraging collaboration and technologies like artificial intelligence to maximize the edibility of food and minimize excessive waste.

Yang Minxian, a member of the Shiru Research Institute Committee and Vice Chairman of Yida Group, emphasized the significance of the dialogue: “The ‘Shiru Dialogue’ is not only a collision of ideas but also a starting point for collaboratively exploring and experiencing a better lifestyle. It brings together various strengths to work towards humanity’s sustainable well-being. We will delve into these ideas in everyday practices, believing that it will help us establish a healthier, more sustainable future.”

Yang Yanyan, President of the Guangxi Trade Promotion Association and Joint Secretary-General of the China-ASEAN Business Council, highlighted that the forum has consistently focused on sustainable development and ecological civilization, in line with trends in China-ASEAN economic and trade cooperation. She expressed her desire for the forum to engage more with the China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit to explore new pathways for international cooperation in green sustainability, while also leveraging leading enterprises to guide industry-wide green development efforts and maintain an open mindset to establish industry benchmarks.