(Yicai) Aug. 8 -- Innovative technology companies can do a lot of things and Contemporary Amperex Technology, for one, is dedicated to making outstanding contributions to new energy forms for mankind, said the chairman of the Chinese battery giant, which became part of the United Nations Global Compact initiative in 2023, in a recent interview.

CATL's Shenxing ultra-fast charging battery is an example of this, said Zeng Yuqun, who was elected "2024 China Sustainable Development Goals Pioneer" by the United Nations Global Compact in July. It needs only 10 minutes of charging to deliver a range of 400 kilometers.

True world-class status is only achieved when one excels in both invention and discovery, and especially when one can do something that others can’t in the field of technology, Zeng said in the latest ESG+20 Sustainable Development Leadership Interview Series.

It is essential to develop excellent products that take into consideration reliability, safety and manufacturability, he said. Essentially, this involves providing technically and commercially viable products that are easy to use, make end consumers happy and give a sense of fulfillment.

In terms of sustainable innovation, a mechanism for assurance is needed, with the most important aspect being cultural assurance, he said. A culture that continuously pursues innovation must be deeply embedded within the entire organization. Secondly, encouragement for innovation is essential, and incentive mechanisms play a crucial role.

CATL announced its zero-carbon targets in April last year, which are to achieve carbon neutrality in core operations by 2025 and across its value chain by 2035. The Ningde-based firm has nine zero-carbon factories at the moment and this number is expected to reach 13 or 14 by next year, Zeng said.

Under the current globalization trend, CATL faces three major challenges, namely geopolitical issues, cultural conflicts and the international talent pool. These can all be overcome through innovation, Zeng said.

Addressing climate change is extremely urgent, he said. CATL is contributing to the global renewable energy initiative by sharing clean energy technologies through innovative business models with countries around the world, he added.

Editor: Kim Taylor