Green Intelligent Chain, Pioneering Leadership — Electronic Technology Industry Sustainable Development Forum” Successfully Held in Shanghai
On November 21, the “Green Intelligent Chain, Pioneer Leadership – Electronics Technology Industry Sustainability Forum”, hosted by Merck and co-organized by Jiran Think Tank and SDA (Green Carbon Neutrality and Sustainable Development Forum for Asia), was successfully held in Shanghai. Against the backdrop of increasingly severe global environmental challenges, the electronics technology industry – as a high-energy-consumption, high-emission sector – faces critical sustainability demands. The forum brought together industry leaders and experts to discuss collaborative approaches for green development across the electronics ecosystem, balancing economic benefits with environmental protection.
Opening Remarks
Marc Horn (President, Merck China) stated in his video address:
“As a 356-year-old family enterprise, we understand responsible business means generational thinking. Our new vision ‘Spark Curiosity. Improve Lives.’ reflects our commitment to positively impacting millions globally. This forum provides an ideal platform to co-create solutions for consumer electronics, especially smartphones and EVs.”
Yu Sui (Managing Director, Merck Electronics China) added:
“At Merck, we believe technology should serve good. Our €3B+ global electronics investment through 2025 includes sustainable innovations for displays and semiconductors, reducing ecological footprints while building safer, smarter connectivity.”
Rong Zou (Co-Director, Shanghai Climate Week) highlighted:
“Shanghai Climate Week, initiated by 100+ global partners including Merck, has hosted 100+ events since April 2024 engaging 1,000+ organizations. We commend Merck for organizing this influential forum aligning with our ‘Climate Park Spring 2025’ theme.”
Industry Insights
Experts from Google, Lenovo, Alibaba Cloud, Rockwell Automation, Amazon, Siemens, NIO, SGS, TÜV Rheinland, and Jiran Think Tank shared perspectives on:
- Sustainability trends/challenges in consumer electronics
- Best practices across supply chains
- NEV industry sustainability
Key takeaways:
- Lifecycle thinking must integrate sustainability from R&D to recycling
- Data-driven strategies and international compliance are critical
- Industry leaders must drive cross-chain collaboration
Merck’s Green Practices
Yi Qu (Head of Strategy, Merck Electronics China) showcased achievements:
2019-2023: 54% GHG reduction, 43% water use decrease, 30% waste decline
Certifications:
4-star Shanghai Green Factories (Jinqiao/Waigaoqiao)
LEED Platinum (Zhangjiagang semiconductor base)
Renewable energy procurement at Suzhou plant
The forum demonstrated how collective action can advance electronics sustainability while supporting China’s dual-carbon goals.