- Calendar
- Wednesday 28 August–Thursday 29 August 2024
- Clock
- 09:00–18:00
Overview
The conference 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 Festivals 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.
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
Conference Information
Adam Smith ESG Conference & The 2nd BAR Annual Conference
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
- Circular economy 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
| Details | Date |
|---|---|
| Full paper submission deadline | Friday 14 June 2024 |
| Authors will be notified | Friday 21 June 2024 |
| Early registration opens | Friday 21 June 2024 |
| Early registration closes | Thursday 25 July 2024 |
| Standard registration opens | Friday 26 July 2024 |
| Updated full paper submission closes | Friday 02 August 2024 |
| Registration closes | Monday 12 August 2024 |
| Conference date | Wednesday 28-Thursday 29 August 2024 |
| Special issue submission deadline | Tuesday 31 December 2024 |
Submission
Submissions to the conference should be sent to: ESGHWU@gmail.com, or through Adam Smith Sustainability: Call for Papers 2024
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.
There is no submission fee, but there is a registration fee, which covers conference materials, refreshments, lunch, and gala dinner.
Registration
| Details | Dates | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Early registration - Academic/PhD | Friday 21 June 2024 - Thursday 25 July 2024 | £300 |
| Standard registration - Academic/PhD | Friday 26 July 2024 - Monday 12 August 2024 | £375 |
| Early registration - Industry/Corporate | Friday 21 June 2024 - Thursday 25 July 2024 | £400 |
| Standard registration - Industry/Corporate | Friday 26 July 2024 - Monday 12 August 2024 | £475 |
Visa requirements
Depending on where you are travelling from, there are a few simple rules for travelling to Scotland. Information is available on regulations concerning the length of your stay, how much money you can bring, and what products you can take in and out of the country.
Application forms, information on how to apply for a visa, as well as guidance for visitors coming to the UK is available on the official UK Government website.
View official guidance on entering the UK
Payment information
All registration fees must be paid in full before the start of the event. Any outstanding registration fees must be paid before any joining instructions containing information on how to access the event are sent out.
Cancellations
Please inform the conferences team if you can no longer attend the event after registering by contacting ASSC@business-school.ed.ac.uk. Refunds will be provided for cancellations made up to or on 28 July 2024. Refunds are not provided after 28 July 2024; however, substitutions of attendees can be made at any time up to and on Friday 23 August 2024.
Accommodation
Edinburgh is a very popular tourist destination and hotel capacity is limited over the summer months. Conference delegates are therefore encouraged to book early to secure a reservation at their preferred accommodation provider.
The University offers a broad variety of accommodation through the University of Edinburgh Hospitality and Events Collection.
KM Hotel and Apartments
Conveniently located close to the University of Edinburgh Business School, Old College and George Square, KM Hotel offers 45 stylish bedrooms with full Scottish breakfast served daily. The recently refreshed KM Apartments has 35 studio and one-bedroom serviced apartments which are ideal for longer stays.
Located in the peaceful landscaped grounds of Pollock Halls Campus, adjoining Holyrood Park, and within easy walking distance of the conference venue and the city's major attractions:
The Scholar
72-bed 4 star hotel on the Pollock Estate with restaurant and bar.
The Scott
36-bed luxury 4 star boutique-style hotel also on the Pollock Estate with Red Room Bar and Restaurant. This property offers a more exclusive experience.
During the University’s summer vacation, there are an additional 2,000 rooms on offer at Pollock Halls (ranging from single standard rooms with shared bathrooms in the residences to double or twin ensuite in Chancellor’s Court and Holland House).
To book accommodation please visit the University of Edinburgh Hospitality and Events Collection online booking service and quote promotion code 'EVENT' to receive 15% off their best flexible bed and breakfast rate. Please note this excludes any promotions or other deals that may be running. Payment is taken at time of booking.
Book University of Edinburgh acommodation
City Centre Hotels
We also suggest a number of 3, 4, and 5 star hotels within walking distance of the conference venue. Delegates may choose from excellent budget accommodation, stylish boutique properties, or luxurious international hotels. Delegates should book any accommodation directly with the accommodation provider.
3 Star
IBIS Edinburgh Centre South Bridge
77 South Bridge
Edinburgh
EH1 1HN
+44 (0)131 292 0000
h8484@accor.com
IBIS website
Motel One Edinburgh Royal
18-21
Edinburgh
EH1 1BL
+44 (0)131 220 0730
res.edinburgh-royal@motel-one.com
Edinburgh Royal website
4 Star
10 Hill Place Hotel
10 Hill Place
Edinburgh
EH8 9DS
+44 (0)131 662 2080
reservations@tenhillplace.com
10 Hill Place Hotel website
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
31-35 Grassmarket
Edinburgh
EH1 2HS
+44 (0)131 300 3456
Apex Grassmarket Hotel website
Hotel Du Vin & Bistro
11 Bristo Place
Edinburgh
EH1 1EZ
+44 (0)131 247 4900
reception.edinburgh@hotelduvin.com
Hotel Du Vin website
Hilton Carlton Edinburgh
19 North Bridge
Edinburgh
EH1 1SD
+44 (0)131 556 2691
edinburghcarlton.info@hilton.com
Hilton Carlton website
Marriott Residence Inn
36 Simpson Loan
Edinburgh
EH3 9GG
+44 (0)131 229 7150
ri.ediri.reception@marriott.com
Marriott Residence Inn website
5 Star
Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile Edinburgh
1 George IV Bridge
Edinburgh
EH1 1AD
+44 (0)131 220 6666
info.edinburgh@radissoncollection.com
Radisson Hotel Royal Mile website
Serviced Apartments
Old Town Chambers
Roxburgh Court
The Royal Mile
Edinburgh
EH1 1PS
Travel and things to do
We look forward to welcoming you to Edinburgh, the inspiring capital of Scotland and a multi award-winning city with a strong reputation as one of the most attractive destinations in the world, with an ideal mix of culture, shopping, dining, music, heritage and leisure activities.
Our vibrant capital is steeped in history; seamlessly blending an architecturally stunning backdrop with modern developments. You may want to extend your stay to explore the atmospheric streets of the Old Town and the elegant Georgian architecture of the New Town; to visit famous historic sites such as Edinburgh Castle or the Palace of Holyroodhouse; to browse in wonderful museums, art galleries and shops; and to relax in some of the city’s excellent restaurants, bars and cafés.
Forever Edinburgh is a hub of all the best things to do, see, and enjoy in the city. You’ll find great days out and get the inside details on the best little-known places waiting to be discovered.
Edinburgh is also the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, so this is a perfect opportunity for you to extend your visit and discover Scotland. Explore beautiful and inspiring views of ancient landscapes with a fascinating history. Witness the amazing wildlife and take part in some thrilling outdoor pursuits. Explore the many mountains and glens, the stunning islands and stretches of coastline and follow the country’s only Malt Whisky Trail.
More information on Edinburgh can be found at Visit Scotland.
Air
Edinburgh boasts an international airport with flights from North America and many European and UK destinations, Taxi, tram and bus links connect the airport to the city centre with a journey time of 30-35 minutes.
Rail
Edinburgh Waverley is the closest train station at around a 15-20 minute walk (uphill). Haymarket is around a 30 minute walk from the central campus.
Taxi
A taxi from St Andrew's Square Bus Station or Princes Street to the University's central campus will cost approximately £8 and take around 10 minutes. A taxi from the airport will cost on average £35 and take around 30 minutes.
Bus
- Lothian Buses from Edinburgh City Centre to the University campus: Bus service numbers 41, 42, 67
- For Bristo Place: Bus service numbers 2, 23, 27, 35, 41, 42, 45
A standard adult one-trip bus fare is £2. You'll need exact change. Alternatively, you can pay by contactless card. From the airport, catch the Airlink 100 service which will take you into the heart of Edinburgh City Centre, or the Airlink 300 service which stops around a 5 minute walk from campus.
Arthur's Seat
Holyrood Park is a short walk from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile in the heart of the city. It is a 640-acre Royal Park adjacent to Holyrood Palace and overlooks Pollock Halls Campus. The park’s highest point is Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano, and sits 251m above sea level giving excellent view of the city; it is also the site of a large and well preserved fort. Within the park, you can also visit St Anthony’s Chapel – a 15th century medieval chapel, Salisbury Crags – a series of 150 foot cliff faces dominating Edinburgh’s skyline as well as Duddingston Loch – a fresh water loch rich in birdlife.
City Bus Tours
Choose from 4 different hop-on hop-off bus tours exploring Edinburgh and beyond. Sights include Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill, Royal Botanic Gardens, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Royal Yacht Britannia, Old Town, New Town, and the three bridges.
Camera Obscura: A World of Illusions
Five floors of mind-boggling optical illusions and visual trickery make the Camera Obscura a must-visit for all ages. From the legendary Magic Gallery – an interactive space to dazzle the senses – to exquisite city views of Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile and Castle from the Rooftop Terrace, there’s something for everyone. Typical visits take around 2 hours but tickets are valid all day so you can spend as long as you like.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is one of the most exciting historic sites in Western Europe. Set in the heart of Scotland’s dynamic capital city it is sure to capture your imagination. A trip to the Castle will take you through the key moments in Edinburgh’s rich history, including a visit to the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the Scottish National War Memorial. The Castle’s iconic setting and architecture make a great photo opportunity, not to mention unrivalled views from the city’s central spot.
The Edinburgh Dungeon
The Edinburgh Dungeon brings together an amazing cast of theatrical actors, special effects, stages, scenes and rides in a truly unique and exciting walk-through immersive experience, revealing tales from Edinburgh’s dark history. It’s hilarious fun and sometimes a bit scary.
National Museum of Scotland
The diverse collections will take you on a journey of discovery through the history of Scotland and around the world, taking in the wonders of nature, art, design and fashion, and science and technology – all under one roof. Entry to the museum is free, but some exhibitions are ticketed.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Explore the Palace’s close associations with some of Scotland’s most well-known historic figures such as Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, and learn how today it’s used by The Queen when carrying out official engagements in Scotland. Take an audio tour of the palace, learning about its place in Scottish royal history, including a visit to the sumptuously decorated Morning Drawing Room, and the beautiful, wood-panelled chambers of Mary Queen of Scots, where she lived in the 1560s.
The Real Mary King's Close
Imagine a warren of streets frozen in time, where centuries of stories are just waiting to be told. Discover authentic truths about Edinburgh’s dark past, and find out what it was really like for the people who lived, worked, and died on the Close.
Journey back in time and follow in the footsteps of former residents. Step down and explore the rooms, streets and spaces underneath the famous Royal Mile – a unique glimpse into the city’s past, and Edinburgh’s only preserved 17th century street.
Bookings can be made up until midnight on the day before your visit.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
Here you’ll find a range of tours which cater to everyone; from those with a budding interest in whisky, right through to the drinks professionals wanting to firm up their expertise on Scotland’s most famous product. Each tour includes time in the World’s Largest Collection of Scotch Whisky, which comprises 3,384 different bottles and has been described as “one of the seven wonders of the whisky world".