Advancing Green Industrialization in the Global South: Lessons from South and Southeast Asia

Advancing green industrialization in the Global South requires more than technological change and investment. Developing countries need effective industrial policies, finance, and social safeguards to build competitive and equitable low-carbon industries. Drawing on experiences from South and Southeast Asia, this panel explores how green industrialization can be financially viable, environmentally responsible, and socially just.

The discussion begins with a panelist from World Resources Institute (WRI) Indonesia who examines gaps between international ESG standards and national regulations in Indonesia’s critical mineral industry. The presentation explores the implications for workers and communities as well as access to finance.

A representative from Industrial Policy Lab Indonesia (IPL) then examines how industrial policy can strengthen domestic manufacturing and develop solar and battery supply chains in Indonesia. The discussion turns to Manusher Jonno Foundation for insights into industrial decarbonization in Bangladesh’s textile industry with a focus on just transition and the protection of workers’ rights and livelihoods.

Finally, a panelist from Northwestern University explores how climate finance can support industrial decarbonization and strengthen domestic productive capacity to help developing countries move up the value chain. The panel concludes with practical lessons for advancing green industrialization in the Global South.