Edinburgh University Business School and Edinburgh Futures Institute are organising the Adam Smith Sustainability Conference and 2^nd Annual Conference of the British Accounting Review (BAR) in the vibrant city of Edinburgh, Scotland, providing a dynamic platform for global researchers and practitioners. This event is designed to showcase cutting-edge studies exploring the intricate interplay between market-based and moral approaches in achieving sustainability and carbon neutrality and advancing Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices. In examining these approaches, we draw inspiration from the timeless insights of Adam Smith’s two influential works, “The Wealth of Nations” and “The Theory of Moral Sentiments”. While the former underscores the power of free markets and the concept of the “invisible hand”, the latter delves into the moral underpinnings of human behaviour and importance of social cohesion in ethical decision-making. Building upon the profound ideas of Adam Smith, our conference aims to investigate how market-based solutions, align with the principles of free markets while considering the ethical dimensions of environmental responsibility. We are keen on shedding light on the potential synergy between market mechanisms and moral sentiments in fostering sustainable finance and accelerating the transition to a net-zero emissions future.

We invite you to join us in Edinburgh immediately following the Edinburgh Festivales for an enriching and inspiring gathering. Here, thought leaders, researchers, and practitioners come together to exchange innovative ideas, share cutting-edge research, and collectively contribute to shaping a sustainable and responsible future.

Confirmed Keynote Speakers:

Professor Sir Oliver Hart, Harvard University (2016 Nobel Prize Laureate in Economics)

Professor Steven Ongena, University of Zurich

Professor Richard Tol, University of Sussex

Professor Grigory Vilkov, Frankfurt School of Finance & Management

Conference Chair

Professor Gavin Jack, Dean of Business School, University of Edinburgh

Venue: Edinburgh University Business School

Conference Date: 28^th – 29^th August 2024

Conference Links:

https://thebarevent.weebly.com/

Special Issue

The conference will lead to a Special Issue (SI) for the British Accounting Review (Rated A* in ABDC Journal Quality Guide and 3 in Academic Journal Guide). It welcomes novel research on a wide range of topics related to the influences of sustainable finance and carbon markets on green innovation, circular economy, and integration of moral and market perspectives in dealing with climate and environmental issues.

This SI will be managed by:

Professor Bing Xu, Heriot-Watt University
Professor Dimitris Christopoulos, Heriot-Watt University
Professor Steven Ongena, University of Zurich
Professor Grigory Vilkov, Frankfurt School of Finance & Management

Together, we aim to bring scholars and practitioners from accounting, finance, economics, and related fields to foster the development of effective green market-based investment and financing mechanisms. By integrating ethical considerations into decision-making, we strive for a more just and sustainable future guided by principles of fairness, equity, and intergenerational stewardship.

Possible topics for this special issue include, but are not limited to:

Biodiversity and environment
Carbon neutrality and climate risk models
Carbon pricing and green innovations
Climate risks and financial market stability
Circulareconomy focused ESG investments on sustainable performance
Environmental policy and regulatory policy
Gender and ethical diversity and equality
Governance frameworks and international cooperation
Green bonds and sustainable development
Integration of moral & market perspectives in dealing with carbon and ESG issues
Litigation and regulatory changes on investment decisions
Moral and ethical finance
Users, use and usefulness of carbon and ESG information

Although this year’s annual conference of the British Accounting Review with a focus on sustainability, it also welcomes cutting-edge studies on a range of other accounting and finance topics. Authors of high-quality conference papers are encouraged to submit their work for consideration in the regular issue of the BAR.

Other supporting journals

In conjunction with the conference organisers, Journal of Environmental Management, Journal of Chinese Economics and Business Studies, and Sustainability will invite some of the conference papers to submit to their regular or SI issues. Submissions to the journals will follow normal review practices by the journal editors/Guest editors. Please indicate at the time of submission if you would like your paper to be considered for the journals.

Key Dates

Submission Deadline to the Conference	15^th June 2024
Authors will be notified	Before 25^t^h June 2024
Conference Date	28^th – 29^th August 2024
Special Issue Submission Deadline	31^st December 2024

Submissions

Submissions to the conference should be uploaded through

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdNjn3mYxGuv0txreJEGYV-Mk5v-VNPa-NwktNANYPneijOMg/viewform?pli=1 or sent to: ESGHWU@gmail.com

Please note that acceptance to the conference does not guarantee final publication, and the submissions to the special issue at the BAR are not limited to conference participants. The primary purpose of the conference is to provide feedback for authors to improve their manuscripts and networking opportunities.

The conference registration fee is £350, which covers conference materials, refreshments, lunch, and gala dinner.

The City of Edinburgh

Edinburgh, capital city of Scotland, is one of the most unique and memorable cities in Europe. The city is divided into two distinct areas: the historic Old Town and the elegant New Town. The Old Town, characterised by its medieval streets and towering Edinburgh Castle perched atop Castle Rock, includes many historical landmarks such as the Royal Mile, St. Giles' Cathedral, and the Palace of Holyrood House. The New Town, constructed in the 18th century, features neoclassical architecture, wide streets, and elegant squares, offering a stark contrast to the labyrinthine lanes of its older counterpart.

Edinburgh's cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, with a plethora of museums, galleries, and theatres showcasing the city's artistic legacy. The Scottish National Gallery, the National Museum of Scotland, and the Edinburgh Playhouse are just a few of the cultural institutions that draw visitors from around the world.

The city is also renowned for its annual festivals, including the Edinburgh International Festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, the Edinburgh International Book Festival, and the Edinburgh International Film Festival For three weeks in August (from 2 to 25 August 2024), the city of Edinburgh welcomes an explosion of creative energy from around the globe. From big names in the world of entertainment to unknown artists looking to build their careers, the festival caters for everyone and includes theatre, comedy, dance, physical theatre, circus, cabaret, children's shows, musicals, opera, music, spoken word, exhibitions and events.

Beyond its cultural offerings, Edinburgh boasts a thriving culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars serving up both traditional Scottish cuisine and international fare. The city's proximity to the sea ensures a bounty of fresh seafood, while its bustling markets and food festivals celebrate local produce and culinary talent.

Nature enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to explore Edinburgh's green spaces, from the expansive Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat to the scenic Water of Leith Walkway. Outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and sailing are popular among residents and visitors alike, providing a welcome escape from the urban hustle and bustle.

The Official Guide to Edinburgh: https://edinburgh.org/

Getting around Edinburgh: https://www.introducingedinburgh.com/transport