
Symposium: Advancing Sustainable Development in Asia
MIT Asia Real Estate Initiative Hosts Symposium on Sustainable Urbanization in Asia
On January 22, the MIT Center for Real Estate’s Asia Real Estate Initiative, led by Prof. Siqi Zheng, co-hosted a thought-provoking symposium in Singapore in collaboration with the HKU-Urban Systems Institute and Singapore Management University (SMU). The event brought together leading academics and industry experts to explore innovative strategies for sustainable urban growth across Asia.
Prof. Siqi Zheng set the stage with her presentation, The Green Apple in Southeast/South Asia, examining how global tech giants like Apple drive eco-economic decoupling—balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. She highlighted how clean energy and innovative business practices can alleviate pollution while fostering dynamic urban development.


Other key presentations included:
- Dr. Nai Jia Lee (PropertyGuru) on data-driven strategies for climate-resilient and inclusive urban planning in Vietnam, Singapore, and Thailand.
- Prof. Weizeng Sun (Nanjing Audit U) on the efficiency and mobility benefits of Beijing’s mobile QR subway ticketing system.
- Prof. Phang Sock-Yong (SMU) on integrating energy-efficient buildings with green transit to create sustainable urban spaces.
- Prof. He Shenjing (HKU) on a new theoretical framework for measuring urban sustainability through green building practices and transit-oriented development.
Prof. Orlando Woods (SMU) connected these themes, emphasizing how regulatory gaps present both challenges and opportunities for sustainable urban growth. Discussions explored the impact of urban infrastructure on daily life and the evolving paradigms shaping cities across Asia.
The event also welcomed scholars from National Chengchi University, Tsinghua University, and Xiamen University, whose insights enriched the dialogue. Additionally, visiting professors He Shenjing and Siqi Zheng met with Prof. Winston Chow and The SULTREE Lab to discuss future research collaborations.
This symposium marked a significant step in advancing sustainable urban solutions, and we look forward to continued collaboration in this critical field.