Guest Session by Ms. Laura Jalasjoki: Green Growth, Climate Action, and Sustainable Development at Embark College

Embark College hosted an insightful and forward-looking guest session on 18th May 2026 for BSc. Business Management (BSc. BM) and MBA students. The session was delivered by Ms. Laura Jalasjoki, Country Representative for Nepal and Pakistan at the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI). With nearly two decades of international experience in sustainable development, green economy strategies, and climate policy, Ms. Jalasjoki shared expert perspectives on how businesses can align with global green growth principles while contributing to Nepal’s sustainable development goals.

The session explored the concept of green growth as a model that promotes economic expansion while ensuring environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and climate resilience. Ms. Jalasjoki explained how countries like Nepal can transition toward low-carbon, resource-efficient economies through policy innovation, green investments, and private sector leadership. She highlighted GGGI’s work in supporting Nepal with green growth planning, green bond frameworks, climate-resilient infrastructure, and agrifood system transformation.

Students gained practical business insights into integrating sustainability into core operations. Ms. Jalasjoki discussed key topics such as green financing mechanisms, sustainable supply chain management, circular economy approaches, climate risk assessment, and opportunities in renewable energy, sustainable tourism, and green entrepreneurship. She shared real examples of GGGI-supported initiatives in Nepal, including green bond issuance and projects that create jobs while reducing environmental impact.

A major highlight was the discussion on the role of businesses in achieving Nepal’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and long-term low-emission development strategies. Ms. Jalasjoki emphasized how MBA and BSc. BM graduates can drive change by developing green business models, measuring environmental impact, and creating shared value for communities and the planet. She also addressed challenges such as limited access to green finance, technology gaps, and the need for capacity building in emerging markets.

Ms. Jalasjoki encouraged students to adopt a systems-thinking approach that balances profit with planetary boundaries and social equity. Her insights aligned well with the need for future leaders to navigate the intersection of business, climate action, and sustainable development in Nepal’s context.

Ms. Laura Jalasjoki’s extensive professional background added strong credibility and inspiration to the session. Since April 2025, she has been leading GGGI’s programs in Nepal and Pakistan, supporting national green growth priorities. Her international expertise in policy advisory, program management, and strategic partnerships has helped advance climate-smart initiatives across Asia and beyond.

The session concluded with an engaging question-and-answer segment. Students actively participated, inquiring about career opportunities in green business and sustainability consulting, strategies for implementing green practices in Nepali companies, access to climate finance, and the future of sustainable entrepreneurship in Nepal. Ms. Jalasjoki provided thoughtful, experience-based responses and motivational guidance.

This guest session by Ms. Laura Jalasjoki at Embark College offered BSc. BM and MBA students valuable exposure to global green growth strategies and their practical application in Nepal. By featuring leading international experts like her, the college continues to deliver high-impact, globally relevant education that prepares students to become responsible leaders capable of driving sustainable business transformation in Nepal and the region.