GREENEXT Expo 2025 Concludes: A Journey to Sustainability
The two-day GREENEXT Expo 2025 successfully concluded on September 27 at the Shanghai Exhibition Center. Against the backdrop of a global surge in sustainability awareness, this landmark event embraced the core pillars of Sustainability × Innovation × Cross-Sector Collaboration × Business, uniting pioneers from across the sustainability landscape. The expo welcomed 5022 attendees, delivering a vibrant showcase of cutting-edge technology, cross-industry dialogues, immersive public engagement, and diverse cultural expressions.
Building on its 2024 debut, GREENEXT Expo 2025 elevated sustainability to new heights at the Shanghai Exhibition Center, welcoming over 120 enterprises and organizations across six thematic zones: Fashion Forward, Living Earth, Green for Next, Global Navigation, Pulse of Vitality, and Art Awakens. Through immersive displays, interactive installations, and over 200 solutions and case studies, the Expo showcased how sustainability drives innovation in technology, fashion, ecology, lifestyle, and artistic expression, offering actionable, replicable, and scalable solutions for China’s commercial ecosystem and beyond.
This year, GREENEXT also sharpened its focus on four key scenarios: Urban Regeneration, reimagining cities with ESG-driven resource circularity; Global Expansion, building trust in Chinese solutions through compliance and cultural adaptability; Technological Innovation, unleashing youth and startup creativity; and Public Good & Shared Benefit, where altruism drives enduring business competitiveness.
At the opening ceremony, Dr. Hong Zheng, Founder of GREENEXT, delivered an inspiring keynote address. “Sustainability is a journey carried by tangible solutions—from product design to business models, from technological innovation to cultural expression, transforming green ideals into perceptible, tangible, and communicable practices,” she stated. “Our shared mission is to ensure businesses thrive sustainably while fostering an enduringly prosperous planet.” Dr. Zheng highlighted that sustainability has evolved from a philosophical question of why to a practical challenge of how. She emphasized that Chinese enterprises and global society stand at a pivotal moment, where the essence of new productive forces lies in the synergy of commercial and social value, driving both economic and ecological benefits.
120+ Global Enterprises, Six Zones Driving Innovation
GREENEXT Expo 2025 convened over 120 leading enterprises and organizations from around the globe, showcasing innovation across six thematic zones centered on the core pillars of sustainability, innovation, cross-boundary collaboration, and business. Through more than 200 solutions and case studies, the event fostered deep connections among business leaders, policymakers, investors, innovators, and consumers. The Expo aimed to deliver actionable solutions, replicable innovations, and scalable business models, empowering enterprises to achieve mutual benefit, coexistence, and long-term success.
The Fashion Forward zone directly addresses the dual challenges facing the textile and apparel industry, presenting a comprehensive innovation and transformation pathway across the entire chain of "green raw materials—circular processes—smart manufacturing." It showcases the application of natural fibers and new eco-friendly materials, while also highlighting cutting-edge practices such as recycling and regeneration, non-toxic dyeing and finishing, and digital-intelligent supply chains. Leading brands, enterprises, and organizations, including in2orbits, Mobi Garden, Ellassay Group, adidas, Redress, corange, Feimayi, Green Fashion Society, the International Cooperation Commitment of Animal Welfare, China Association for the Promotion of International Agricultural Cooperation (ICCAW), SHOKAY, ORIENT HONGDA, Ulanbuh, Consinee, Chifeng Dongli Cashmere Ltd., DIKKA, YIWAY X-LAB, REHUB, LINK FASHION, YKK, VECVEC ACTIVE, Wanzhou Holding Group, made notable appearances, sharing industry cases and innovative strategies to collectively pave the way for a high-value, low-impact fashion ecosystem.
The Living Earth zone spotlighted regenerative agriculture, plant-based skincare, and responsible sourcing, highlighting the profound connection between humanity and nature, as well as between the fields and the consumer. Through transparent supply chains—from “field to bottle” and “field to table”—exhibitors like The Macallan, Sinno Cosmetic Group, FineToday, Yuskin, JUNPING, D＆D Farm, SmilingBoqie, BIOFarm, Rainbow Hunter, Hona Organic, Lan Mao Manor, monday_sustain, Qiyue, ZEN JOY, and Zhi Jewel presented localized case studies and rural co-creation initiatives, offering visitors a tangible understanding of how revitalized soil and green raw materials, through extended industrial chains, ultimately become part of daily life. This not only reinterprets “food” and “skincare” but also rediscoveres the value of agriculture.
The Green for Next zone highlights the comprehensive transformation pressures and innovative solutions for businesses in the new era, from carbon auditing and green investment to ESG disclosure, talent development, and building circular systems, exhibitors such as HKRI Taikoo Hui, Society of Entrepreneurs and Ecology, Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship of Peking University HSBC Business School, UrbanLab, TREND, KAFFTEC, Stora Enso, Impact Hub Shanghai, Tencent CarbonXmade, SynTao Academy Co., Ltd., Shanghai Songding Social Innovation Center, NPI Foundation, Jiangsu Yejing Low-Carbon Technology Co., Ltd., Shanghai Temmer Packaging Material Co., Ltd., Aquacendo, DT Master Carbon, Carbon Newture, GOOD CYCLE, QIWANG Paper, Beijing Plastic Response Information Technology Co., Ltd., Shanghai Yida Resources Recycling Technology Co., Ltd., Shanghai IVY Paper, QingyueYoung, Paris2050workshop, IGI, East China Talent Science Research Institute, JLL, New Best, TetraBOT Intelligence, RePlasTerial, Gee, Gaiamesh, Diandiantong Supply Chain Technology, GLORIGIN TECH, Shenzhen QYSEA Tech, Future Lab, WUT Ship, E3A Healthcare, UTARN, Yuanwei Vision Technology, and Yunchuang Data Seurity UNCHUANG DATA SECURITY showcased low-carbon manufacturing, green building practices, and the fusion of philanthropy with business, driving the industry toward a more resilient and long-term direction.
The Global Navigation zone provided a robust platform for Chinese enterprises navigating sustainability challenges in global markets. Exhibitors, including RenewMaterial, Extencia, Touch Elephant, and Yangtze Institute of Green Finance, offered insights into global regulatory compliance, cross-border supply chain trust, and international influence through social innovation. From navigating worldwide regulatory compliance and building trust in cross-border supply chains to enhancing international influence through social innovation, this zone offers a practical guide to sustainable practices for Chinese enterprises going global.
The Pulse of Vitality zone immersed attendees in green lifestyle scenarios, driving sustainable consumption into the mainstream. By bringing together brands, commercial landmarks, and platform channels, the area not only introduces new types of sustainable products but also emphasizes actionable green living practices in urban environments. Collaborating with brands, commercial landmarks, and distribution platforms, exhibitors like Highland Park, Tonghui Wellness & Travels, Giftopia, Douyin, The Bicester Collection, YAKMA, Breeze, and OnTheList created a green ecosystem spanning retail and lifestyle, empowering urban audiences to embrace sustainable choices.
The Art Awakens zone interpreted sustainability through the lens of culture and art, blending intangible cultural heritage, digital art, youth education, and cross-disciplinary creations. Exhibitors, including The Future Laboratory, Tsinghua University, and JW.L Design Studio, næra organics & Cycle up, Beyond Fiber, Artist Marine Calamai with curator Zheng Yang, UOB China × Global Economic Network (GEN), and PIGCASSO, offered a new paradigm for brands to engage audiences emotionally and inspire action through art. Here, art is not merely displayed—it becomes a powerful medium for mainstreaming sustainability.
Global Thought Leaders Unite for Sustainability Dialogues
The opening ceremony gathered distinguished guests and leaders, including Li Songtao, Deputy Secretary-General of the China Association for the Promotion of International Agricultural Cooperation; Cong Sufeng, Vice Chairman of Jiangsu Sub-Council of China Council for The Promotion of International Trade; and Jin Xin, Deputy Director of The Office of The Management Committee of NANXl Functional Area, Jing'An District, Shanghai and Vice General Manager of Shanghai Join Buy Group Co., Ltd., who each delivered remarks. In addition, consuls from the Consulates General of Finland, Norway, Belgium, and Denmark in Shanghai were invited to speak, bringing fresh international perspectives and strengthening opportunities for global exchange and cooperation at the Expo.
A highlight of the ceremony was a heartfelt performance by Love.Disabilities.Love charity initiative in collaboration with Shanghai Pudong New Area Special School, which presented an ethereal drum performance that resonated deeply with the audience. The ceremony also featured the Global Sustainable Fashion Consumption Industry Pioneer Awards Ceremony, co-hosted by Yaok Research Institute and GREENEXT, which recognized trailblazers in the industry and added both humanistic care and professional recognition to the occasion. In addition, Guo Yangang, Vice President of the Shanghai Society of Sustainability, Zhou Xiaoyan, Deputy Secretary-General of the Shanghai Population Welfare Foundation, and Dr. Hong Zheng, Founder of GREENEXT Expo, jointly announced the launch of a sustainability fund, underscoring the Expo’s mission to advance social responsibility and sustainable development.
A cornerstone of the expo, the conference program brought together 183 global experts, business leaders, and industry pioneers across five venues: Hall of Voyage, Hall of Dao, Innovation Hub, Common Good Hub, and Co-Creation Workshop. Over two days, the event hosted a total of 77 events, including 19 keynote speeches, 35 panel discussions, 8 workshops, 4 award ceremonies, 2 press conferences, 2 roadshows, 6 special events, and 1 book signing session, with participants from France, Canada, Belgium, Singapore, and beyond. Notable contributors included HKRI Taikoo Hui, Budweiser, Ellassay Group, The Fashion Pact, Douyin, ChangeNOW, JLL, adidas, and Siemens, fostering dynamic exchanges on topics like global market expansion, sustainable fashion, ESG management and supply chains, green transformation in hospitality, and biodiversity conservation.
During the forum, a series of seminars and workshops unfolded in rapid succession, offering audiences a wealth of insights and inspiration. To mark the 20th anniversary of the “Two Mountains” concept, leaders from the Ministry of Ecology and Environment joined experts from diverse fields and scholars from leading universities for in-depth discussions. They were also joined by representatives from more than 20 leading domestic and international enterprises, fostering rich exchanges and knowledge-sharing across sectors. Ms. Ruifang Ding, Co-General Manager of HKRI Taikoo Hui, introduced the concept of "The Third Aesthetic of Commercial Spaces: Making Sustainability the New Luxury," offering fresh perspectives for the green transformation of commercial real estate. Meanwhile, Mr. Liang Wu, Senior Director of Corporate Communications and Sustainability for adidas Greater China, systematically shared the brand’s sustainable practices in China, providing valuable references for the industry. The cross-border forum jointly presented by UOB China × Global Economic Network (GEN), along with the "Youth x Ecological Stewardship" initiative led by the Youth Entrepreneur for Sustainability Club, introduced innovative approaches to sustainable collaboration. Asia Elite Mothers Association & Asia Elite Women Association hosted a special forum themed “Philanthropy & Shared Value -- Her Sustainable Stories”, where speakers movingly shared their sustainability stories. Additionally, the "ESG Management and Sustainable Supply Chain" forum, co-hosted by the Yangtze Institute of Green Finance and Shanghai Climate Week, emerged as one of the most anticipated sessions by focusing on compliance and resilience-building in the process of corporate globalization.
A series of innovative and forward-thinking activities unfolded throughout GREENEXT Expo 2025. Dr. Jianzhong Lu held a book signing event for his new work, "Sustainable Business Strategy and Practices", engaging in lively interactions with numerous industry peers. The GFS Sustainable Fashion Innovation & Development Forum brought together leading figures in the fashion industry to explore pathways for sustainable fashion development. Yujie Su, Head of Sustainability for Suzano Asia, delivered a compelling keynote titled “Building a Sustainable Value Chain for a Better Future,” sharing the forestry giant’s strategies and practices for sustainability. GREENEXT, in collaboration with GOGO Media, launched the Go Nature, Our Next Nature 2026 Sustainability Awards, while partnering with MATCHWELL to introduce the KWE AWARD for sustainable PR case studies, spotlighting sustainable lifestyles and green communication practices to set industry benchmarks and honor pioneers.
The official release of the Youth Action Guide for Sustainable Development at the Innovation Hub further bridged youth innovation with industry transformation needs, injecting new momentum into a sustainable future and highlighting the pivotal role and potential of youth in driving sustainability. Additionally, GREENEXT partnered with the Shanghai Songding Social Innovation Center to establish the Shanghai Population Welfare Foundation Sustainable Development Fund, promoting the integration of philanthropy and sustainability. In collaboration with SynTao Academy also launched the Sustainable Talent-Friendly Enterprise List, advocating for businesses to embed sustainable principles in talent development and setting a new standard for harmonious enterprise-employee coexistence.
Interactive Experiences Drive Public Engagement
This year’s event featured a specially curated "Sustainable Journey" — an immersive route integrating art, technology, and interactive engagement that ran throughout the exhibition. Visitors explored various themed stops, each offering a unique scene, allowing them to experience green lifestyles up close and earn sustainable rewards through participation. Initiatives such as adidas’ Clothes Recycling Green Initiative, RED’s Mango Art Festival, Plastic Response’s Plateau × Ocean × City Recycled Plastic Workshop, along with the Green Consumption Survey by Tongji University Institute of Ecological Civilization and Circular Economy × GREENEXT, and the Climate Fresk, drew continuous streams of visitors. These activities sparked curiosity and reflection, making sustainability accessible and engaging.
A diverse range of public activities and workshops also stood out as major highlights of the event. These included the circular fashion charity performance, YAKMA’s Plateau Botanical Aroma Candle Workshop, Plaza 66 Shanghai × GREENEXT’s Sustainable City Innovators Kids’ Workshop, Run Toward The Light Charity Workshop by Running in the Dark, and the "Mind Ring" magic performance presented by JW.L Design Studio. Through these engaging experiences, sustainability concepts were translated into tangible and interactive forms. Participants of all ages found inspiration— from art and scent to sports and family activities—deepening their understanding and enthusiasm for a sustainable future through hands-on involvement.
Collaborative Partnerships for a Greener Tomorrow
The success of GREENEXT Expo 2025 was underpinned by robust support from strategic partners. As the strategy advisor of this year’s Expo, NANXI Functional Area hosted a closed-door meeting on the opening day, bringing together sustainability experts and leading corporate representatives to explore future blueprints for urban renewal and community development. Curated by Jae Li of Green Connections, the event was bolstered by collaborators like the International Cooperation Commitment of Animal Welfare, China Association for the Promotion of International Agricultural Cooperation (ICCAW), Shenzhen Society for Sustainable Development, Shanghai Songding Social Innovation Center, RETHINK FASHION, Yangtze Institute of Green Finance, Green Fashion Society, Lanjing News, and FashionatingWorld.com.
Meanwhile, the participation of project partners such as MatchWELL, Yaok Institute, Ecological Civilization & Circular Economy Institute of Tongji University, Leadership Consulting, Global Economic Network, SynTao Academy, Impact Hub Shanghai, Slush, Haishang Xuan, Youth Entrepreneur for Sustainability Club, along with the in-depth support from sustainable lifestyle media partner GOGO Shanghai, exclusive business media partner Jingzhi Media Group, and strategic fashion media partners ELLE and ELLE DECO, significantly expanded the event’s reach and cross-sector resources. The involvement of charity supporting partners like Love.Disabilities.Love and Shanghai Pudong New Area Special School, Running in the Dark, and the generous support of our gift sponsors, including EARTH Water, Peet's Coffee, CHALING, Tianshan Flower Sea, Yaoming Group, and SOBER BEAUTY, added warmth and social care to the event. It is also worth highlighting that Flora Zeta Cheong-Leen took on the role of Sustainable Fashion Charity Ambassador, joining over 60 entrepreneurs and artists in presenting a circular fashion charity dance performance. By leveraging her public influence, the initiative amplified the message of sustainability, helping the concept reach a broader audience.
Action into Commitment, Together for a Sustainable Future
From asking “What is sustainability?” to demonstrating “How to achieve it,” the GREENEXT Expo “A Journey to Sustainability” has become more than an exhibition — it is a collaborative platform where ideas are tested, solutions are shared, and actions are ignited.
As GREENEXT Expo 2025 ends, preparations are already underway for GREENEXT Expo 2026, which promises to expand its global reach and deepen its impact. GREENEXT Expo looks forward to continuing this journey in 2026, co-creating a greener tomorrow together.
