Rising Stars in Sustainability: Edgar Luk
- Date: 24 June 2025
For our Rising Stars series, we're featuring the next generation of leaders who are working toward a more sustainable world. We recently spoke with Edgar Luk, compliance and sustainability manager of sustainability at Macy's Inc., to learn about his role, inspiration, and advice for those new to the field.
Describe your role for your company and what a typical day looks like.
As part of Macy’s, Inc., I lead the Social and Environmental Compliance efforts for our Private Brands factories. Every day, I work to ensure that our supply chain partners uphold ethical labor practices and environmental standards. At Macy’s, Inc. we are intentional about our decisions—we consider our responsibility and impact carefully so that people and planet can thrive together.
Why did you decide to pursue a career in corporate sustainability?
I believe there is so much opportunity to create and collaborate to create a brighter future for all. By integrating sustainable practices into operations, business can drive innovation, enhance their brand reputation and contribute to a healthier planet. My academic background in sustainability, combined with my professional experiences in sustainability initiatives, has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to help organizations navigate this critical transition.
What have you found most challenging and/or most rewarding about your work?
The most challenging aspect of my work is navigating the complexity of global supply chains and ensuring that we maintain consistent standards across diverse regions. The most rewarding part of this journey is seeing our efforts contribute to safer working conditions and a healthier planet. Witnessing the positive impact of our initiatives on communities and the environment is incredibly fulfilling.
Talk about a project you’re currently working on.
In 2023, we partnered with World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to support nature conservation and community resilience. In 2025, we have deepened this partnership by joining WWF’s collective action basin program in Vietnam, focusing on water stewardship and addressing high water stress. By working with local communities and industry experts, we aim to drive locally relevant, measurable outcomes through 2030.
Do you have a sustainability role model or inspiration?
I draw inspiration from the countless grassroots leaders and changemakers around the world who are dedicated to protecting their communities and ecosystems. These individuals often work with limited resources but demonstrate boundless determination and resilience in the face of challenges. Those commitments not only drive meaningful change at the local level but also serve as a powerful reminder of the impact we can have. They inspire me to pursue my own efforts in sustainability with the same level of dedication and creativity.
Talk about your favorite moment in nature.
Hiking in the lush, mountainous trails of Hong Kong—surrounded by misty peaks and ocean views—reminded me of the beauty we’re working to protect.
What advice would you give to someone just beginning their career in corporate sustainability?
Stay flexible and curious. Sustainability is a dynamic field—being open to learning and adapting is key to making a lasting impact.
Embrace opportunities to expand your knowledge, whether through formal education, networking, or hands-on experience. Additionally, seek out other experiences and perspectives, and collaborate with others. Partnerships will enrich your understanding and enhance your ability to drive meaningful change.
What are you excited about for the future?
I’m excited about the growing momentum around sustainability and the increasing collaboration across industries. The future holds so much potential for innovation and the future resiliency of people and planet.