Building Bridges chairman Patrick Odier: ‘Sustainability issues have become over-politicised’

October 5, 2026 - 08:54

As Geneva prepares to host its annual sustainable finance summit on Tuesday, the event's co-founder and Swiss banker Patrick Odier is urging leaders not to let pressing global conflicts and security threats push sustainability down the political agenda.

Odier, who also serves as chairman of Building Bridges, said the issue has become overly politicised in recent years. He argued that short-term crises, including energy concerns and rising geopolitical tensions, have pulled attention away from what he describes as a long-term challenge that cannot be ignored.

His comments come as the finance industry faces growing pressure to balance immediate economic risks with commitments to environmental and social goals. Some institutions have scaled back public messaging on climate issues amid political pushback, particularly in the United States, where sustainability initiatives have become a target for critics.

Odier maintains that the financial sector has a responsibility to keep pushing forward. He believes that sustainable investment is not just a moral question but a practical one, tied to risk management and future stability. The summit is expected to draw participants from banking, investment and policy circles who will debate how to maintain momentum in a shifting political landscape.

Organisers say this year's gathering will focus on concrete steps rather than broad pledges, with sessions on transition finance, transparency and the role of emerging markets.