About | Alexandra Brown
Alexandra Brown
Alexandra is the Founder of Ethical Invest Group and supports finance professionals with understanding and implementing ethical and sustainable investment. Alexandra provides ESG, sustainable finance and advice solutions including consulting, education, and professional development.
PROFILE
Alexandra is the Founder of Ethical Invest Group and supports finance professionals with understanding and implementing ethical and sustainable investment. Alexandra provides ESG, sustainable finance and advice solutions including consulting, education, and professional development.
Specialising in mentoring financial advisers with their transition from traditional to ethical investment advice, Alexandra has developed the Ethical Advice Accelerator, an online program that upskills and supports advisers as they bring together client values and sustainable investment in their service offering.
Passionate about ethical and responsible investment, especially in the financial advice space, she is an active member of the Ethical Advisers’ Co-op, and previously on the Board.
Alexandra is Co-Founder and Head of Research for Altiorem. She led the development of the library’s taxonomy and established the systems and training to support the generous volunteers who are building Altiorem’s content. She now focuses on maintaining the depth, breadth, and quality of research in the library.
RECENTLY REVIEWED BY ALEXANDRA BROWN
Integrating nature: The case for action on nature-related financial risks
7 April 2022
The Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) has written this paper to equip senior management within financial institutions to integrate nature-related risks into financial decisions. The paper details why action needs to be taken and the steps to accelerate the integration of nature into finance.
Building peace and prosperity: What business can do
19 September 2018
A brief look at the policies and actions stakeholders can do to confront and prevent violent conflict in high-risk areas. Actions are laid out for businesses, governments, the United Nations, investment community, and civil society. Multi-stakeholder initiatives to support building and investing in peace are presented.
Financing for sustainable development report 2021
25 March 2021
This report contains updates, data and analysis on trends in financing for sustainable development in 2021, while setting out recommendations for policy. Covid-19 has negatively impacted progress for sustainable development. The report proposes measures to support developing countries, rebuild global economies, and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
Driving improvements in modern slavery reporting: The role for Australian investors
3 February 2022
Australia’s Modern Slavery Act 2018 (MSA) was intended to create a race to the top among Australian companies in addressing modern slavery disclosure. The response from corporate Australia is lagging, however. This research on disclosures under the MSA identifies three key gaps in S&P/ASX 300 modern slavery reporting and performance.
Diversity wins: How inclusion matters
19 May 2020
This report highlights that the business case for gender and ethnic diversity in executive teams is stronger than ever, having been deepened by the COVID-19 crisis. Emphasis on diverse representation within organisations is no longer sufficient; employees must feel and perceive equality and fairness of opportunity in their workplace.
Taking the carbon out of credit: An integrated approach to removing climate emissions from lending
20 July 2020
This report makes a complete case for banks and lending institutions to avoid further damaging of the climate. It provides both justification for why this is an important financial undertaking, and principles for how to go about and do it.
ESG and financial performance: Aggregated evidence from more than 2000 empirical studies
15 December 2015
This study examines the positive relationship between ESG (environmental, social, and governance factors) and corporate financial performance, through examining over 2000 empirical studies; a strong business case is also seen across regions and asset classes. Findings show an expected alpha when embracing ESG in investment strategies.
Shifting perceptions: ESG, credit risk and ratings - part 3: From disconnects to action areas
31 January 2019
This is the third report from the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), delving into environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks for fixed income investors and credit rating agencies. This report includes a list of best-in-class practice to advance thinking and practice to incorporate ESG into debt investing.
Guide for responsible corporate engagement in climate policy: A Caring for Climate report
United Nations Global Compact
- World Resources Institute
- United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
- United Nations Environment Programme
- CDP
- World Wide Fund for Nature (World Wildlife Fund - WWF)
- Ceres
- The Climate Group
15 November 2013
A 2013 report on the business community's engagement with climate change, and the best way for companies to implement policies that ensure greenhouse gas emissions are reduced whilst supporting the global economy. The report sets guidelines for why and how companies can provide constructive influences on public policy.
Rating the raters: Evaluating how ESG rating agencies integrate sustainability principles
11 February 2019
This report questions how environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) criteria, used by ESG rating agencies in their assessment processes, have evolved over a ten year period. Additionally, they analyse whether ESG rating agencies are contributing to fostering sustainable development through the inclusion of sustainability principles in their assessment frameworks.
Moving toward gender balance in private equity and venture capital
22 March 2019
This report examines the gender gap in the private equity and venture capital industry, specifically in emerging markets. The correlation between gender balance and fund performance is explored. This report puts forward key actions to improve gender balance and examines the benefits of its improvement in leadership teams.
Private equity and value creation: A fund manager's guide to gender-smart investing
16 November 2020
This report examines the increase in adoption of gender-smart investing within the private equity industry by general partners (GPs) and limited partners (LPs). Lessons from over 160 fund managers have been utilised in this step-by-step guide to choosing gender-smart investment strategies, and putting policies into practice within firms and portfolios.
Project Sage 3.0 – Tracking venture capital, private equity and private debt with a gender lens
13 July 2020
Project Sage 3.0 is the third part of a series, examining the landscape of gender lens investing in venture capital, private equity and private debt from 175 surveyed funds. Key findings see a 58.6% increase in gender focused capital and an increase of over $2 billion in capital raised.
ESG: Hyperboles and reality
19 November 2021
An analysis drawing on a decade of environmental, social and governance (ESG) research to discuss theories of influence, the relationship between ESG and corporate value, and the usefulness of ESG assessments and ratings. The report aims to debunk myths associated with ESG as a commonly used evaluation within businesses and society.
Guidance on Sustainability-Linked Loan Principles
Asia Pacific Loan Market Association (APLMA)
- Loan Market Association (LMA)
- Loan Syndications and Trading Association (LSTA)
30 March 2022
The Sustainability-Linked Loan Principles (SLLP) were originally published in 2019 and provide a framework to what is recognised as an increasingly important area of finance. A sustainability-linked loan is one that incentivises borrowers to improve sustainability performance targets. This guidance note should be read alongside the SLLP.
Sustainability-linked loan principles
Asia Pacific Loan Market Association (APLMA)
- Loan Market Association (LMA)
- Loan Syndications and Trading Association (LSTA)
16 March 2022
The Sustainability-Linked Loan Principles (SLLP), originated in 2019 to provide a framework for this growing area of finance. This summary reviews the SLLP and its five core components. The SLLP have been developed by an experienced working party consisting of representatives from leading financial institutions.
Greenwashing risks in asset management: Staying one step ahead
3 May 2022
The practice of greenwashing is a key regulatory concern in the UK, EU and globally. Greenwashing involves making misleading statements about sustainable products. This report examines how greenwashing occurs and the regulatory initiatives that have emerged to combat this. The report provides five steps firms can take to prevent greenwashing.
Banking on climate chaos: Fossil fuel finance report 2021
Rainforest Action Network
- BankTrack
- Indigenous Environmental Network
- Oil Change International
- Reclaim Finance
- Sierra Club
24 March 2021
This report examines fossil fuel financing from the world’s 60 largest commercial and investment banks, identifying the key firms responsible for the increase in fossil fuel financing between 2016 and 2020. Investment into specific fossil fuel sources and each bank's commitment to 'net-zero by 2050' is explored.
SDG bonds and corporate finance: A roadmap to mainstream investments
22 November 2018
This report describes how a market for mainstream investments that contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), could be created with enough liquidity, scale, and diversification, to attract a range of investors. It inspires and guides companies, governments, and cities, to benefit from better funding while implementing the Paris Goals.
Global Governance Principles
2 September 2021
The Global Governance Principles (GGPs) from the International Corporate Governance Network (ICGN) are corporate governance standards that act as a framework for well-governed companies to follow. The GGPs are widely applicable, irrespective of national legislative frameworks or listing rules.
The missing middles: Segmenting enterprises to better understand their financial needs
2 March 2018
Small and growing businesses (SGBs) have significant and positive impact on emerging and frontier markets. This report proposes a new segmentation framework to help service providers, enterprises, donors, limited partners (LPs) and field-building organisations understand and navigate the complex landscape of SGB investment in frontier and emerging markets.
Corporate climate transition plans: A guide to investor expectations
3 March 2022
A climate transition plan is a time-bound plan that outlines how a company will align its business model with its decarbonisation goals. The report focuses on expectations for a climate transition plan, including interim and long-term emissions reductions, and strategies and actions to meet these targets.
Global investor engagement on meat sourcing: Engaging QSRs on climate and water risks to protein supply chains
28 April 2021
This report examines the findings from dialogue with quick-service-restaurant (QSR) brands, as part of the Global Investor Engagement on Meat Sourcing. Investors have encouraged six of the largest QSR brands to prioritise reducing their vulnerability to climate change and water scarcity from animal protein production. Key trends include emission reduction targets and board oversight.
Alternative proteins: Exploring the Asian appetite and conservation potential
7 January 2020
Alternative proteins have the potential to address rising environmental, health and animal welfare concerns. The report shows the potential land that can be saved if the world adopts alternative proteins in place of meat, and provides an overview of the alternative protein market.
Institutional asset owners: Strategies for engaging with asset managers for impact
12 January 2022
This report explores strategies to better align institutional asset owners with asset managers when managing impact expectations and outcomes. When institutional investors incorporate impact, they can mitigate issues that threaten the long-term value of their assets, and leverage their capital to help address the world's most intractable challenges.
Changing colours: Adaptive capacity of companies in the context of the transition to a low carbon economy
31 July 2017
Over the coming decades economies will transition towards a low carbon economy. This paper explores the adaptive capacity of firms to financial risks that may arise in the context of this transition, while detailing the risk of a "too sudden too late scenario of sweeping legal, social and environmental change".
A status report on financial institutions’ experiences from working with green, non green and brown financial assets and a potential risk differential
This 2020 report presents the results from a survey that assesses whether a risk differential can be detected between green, non-green and brown financial assets (loans and bonds). Based on information obtained by 49 banks, it presents a snapshot of current practices among financial institutions in their asset allocation.
Climate change and COVID-19: Reinforcing Indigenous food systems
9 September 2020
Climate change is affecting Indigenous food systems, making Indigenous populations vulnerable to food and nutritional insecurity. The nature and extent of the effects of COVID-19 on Indigenous food systems include mortality from severe illness, reduced access to food, changes in local diet, and economic losses resulting from lockdowns.
Climate Intrapreneurs: Insights from the front lines of bank climate action
7 December 2020
This is a synthesis of the key themes from the 2020 Climate Safe Learning Lab convening which the Lab hosted with the Climate Safe Lending Network. It shares insights into what is really going on inside banks when it comes to their speed of climate action.
Bankrolling plastics: The banks that fund plastic packaging pollution
5 January 2021
Banks continue to finance the global plastics chain, despite the significant risks of lender liability from the impacts of plastic waste. This report highlights the lack of development of any due diligence systems, contingent loan criteria, or financing exclusions at the banks when it comes to the plastic packaging industry.
Bankrolling extinction: The banking sector's role in the global biodiversity crisis
6 January 2020
This report explores the contribution of the banking sector to the biodiversity crisis and the destruction of nature as of 2019. The report ranks the 50 largest banks globally based on their financing of unethical operations, finding a large impact on deforestation, ecosystem destruction and overfishing.
Blueprint for business leadership on the SDGs: A principles-based approach
21 September 2017
Business cannot thrive unless people and planet are thriving. This publication presents a framework for the next generation of business leadership with the intention to foster contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals at scale.
Corporate social responsibility and investment portfolio diversification
2 May 2010
This paper argues against Andrew Rudd’s ‘inescapable conclusion’ that integration of environment, social or governance (ESG) criteria in the investment processes must worsen portfolio diversification. While, negatively impacting diversification through number of stocks and correlation it improves portfolio diversification through a reduction of the average stock’s specific risk.
Investing in the green economy: Sizing the opportunity
15 December 2020
This paper emphasises the capacity of the green economy in meeting environmental objectives in decision-making processes. FTSE Russell advocate data as crucial to investors to monitor industry and company-specific contributions to the economy and to assess opportunities in new green products and services.
Can government policies that drive strong economic outcomes for the private sector alleviate poverty?
11 October 2019
The report examines how the adoption of policies that drive strong economic outcomes for the private sector often reduce poverty in the developing world, primarily through opportunities for job creation. In particular, the report calls for policies that promote greater access to credit and the protection of minority investors.
Appetite for disruption: A second serving
27 July 2020
This report explores the growth of the alternative protein market, particularly in the face of supply chain disruptions, food safety concerns from COVID-19, and global emissions. This is published alongside FAIRR's Sustainable Proteins Hub, an interactive tool which allows investors to assess how companies are diversifying toward alternative, climate-positive portfolios.
Responsible investment benchmark report 2020 Australia
16 October 2020
Details the size, growth, depth and performance of the Australian responsible investment market over 12 months to 31 December 2019 and compares these results with the broader Australian financial market. Reviews the practices of 165 investment managers who are applying responsible investment to some or all of their investment practices.
Strengthening financial resilience among rural and refugee communities in Rwanda
31 December 2020
United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) has improved financial inclusion, through implementing its Expanding Financial Access and Digital and Financial Literacy (REFAD) program in Rwanda, and by working with local partners to help cater digital financial solutions and improve financial literacy for rural and refugee communities.
Investing in low-carbon transitions: Energy finance as an adaptive market
29 October 2015
This article explores the role of financial markets in capitalising low-carbon energy systems and long-term change. Ultimately, the authors contend that current assumptions on efficient market behaviour do not fit the energy industry, and to reliably capitalise on low-carbon transitions, an adaptive market assumption should be held.
Institutional shareholders and corporate social responsibility
31 May 2019
The study sets out to examine the relationship between institutional investors and corporate social responsibility (CSR). Specifically, the researchers examine whether an institutional investor’s level of ownership in a firm can influence its CRS commitments and whether different levels of shareholder “attention” affect the portfolio firm’s CSR commitments.
How can investors help prevent corporate policy capture?
24 May 2021
This project aims to make corporate political capture a central component of investors’ approach to ESG stewardship and integration. It leverages information on the state of play for key sectors and shares lessons learned from past investor engagements, including a 12-step process for ESG investors to address negative corporate lobbying.
Winning without win-win? Recommendations on financial market strategies for biodiversity and nature
19 July 2021
Expert recommendations for investors regarding financial market strategies to address urgent risks in biodiversity and nature, including examples of meaningful market actions and critique of 'win-win' thinking in investment decision-making. Recommendations drawn from a private cross-sectoral dialogue hosted by Preventable Surprises in February 2021.
Waste and opportunity 2020: Searching for Corporate Leadership - 50 corporations ranked on plastic packaging pollution
3 July 2020
The 2020 published report by As You Sow investigates 50 corporations and ranks them based on their performance in leadership and ambition relating to sustainable packaging of their products, while also taking into account their contributions and support to increase recycling rates and engage in producer responsibility efforts.
Implementing the Taskforce on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations: A guide for asset owners
3 May 2018
The guide sets out a practical framework to support asset owners in implementing the Taskforce on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations. The guide focuses on the actions that asset owners can take to improve processes around governance, strategy, risk management and metrics/targets for managing climate risks and opportunities.
Unlocking Australia's sustainable finance potential
13 June 2019
Recommendations on actions by Australian Government and finance sector for unlocking the potential of sustainable finance in Australia. The basis of these recommendations are the European Union's Action Plan on sustainable finance that was adopted by the European Commission in March 2018 and the likelihood of their success in Australia.
Responsible investing and financial performance
28 February 2021
The body of evidence continues to stack up – nationally and globally - showing that responsible investments typically achieve stronger risk-adjusted financial performance than their peers, consistently outperforming against benchmarks over short-term and long-term time frames. This fact sheet details the performance of Australian and New Zealand investment products, superannuation and impact investments.
Global progress report of the Sustainable Banking Network: Innovations in policy and industry actions in emerging markets - October 2019
11 October 2019
This report discusses progress made by emerging market financial sector regulatory agencies and the financial institutions they supervise, with respect to the advancement of sustainable finance in those markets. The report identifies key components for a national sustainable financial framework and the steps needed to implement it in emerging markets.
Australia's welfare 2019: Data insights
21 August 2019
This 14th biennial welfare report of the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, presents an overview of the welfare data landscape and explores selected welfare topics - including intergenerational disadvantage, income support, future of work, disability services, elder abuse and child wellbeing - in eight original articles.
Clean energy Australia report 2018
24 May 2018
Renewable energy is on the rise alongside the global campaign for climate risk mitigation, particularly the solar and wind energy sectors. In 2017, there has been a dramatic increase in global investments to build energy generation infrastructure, and the projection in the next 5 years is optimistic.
SDG Industry Matrix: Healthcare and life sciences
31 July 2016
Compiled by the UN Global Compact and KPMG, the SDG Industry Matrixes focus on the opportunities, principle-based initiatives, and opportunities for collaboration across seven sectors. This matrix applies to companies and initiatives in the healthcare and life sciences sector, highlighting the nexus between sustainability and value.
ASEAN 2019 Green finance: State of the market
31 December 2019
An overview of data by the Climate Bonds Initiative, illustrating market growth in ASEAN’s green, sustainable bond, and loan markets. ASEAN is an intergovernmental organisation integrating economic, educational, and sociocultural integration. ASEAN's issuance grew 98% in 2019 and makes up 3% of the global total.
Women's empowerment principles: Equality means business
United Nations Global Compact
- UN Women: United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women
3 August 2011
The UN Women and United Nations Global Compact's collaboration provides a framework of principles for businesses to integrate gender equality in the workplace, marketplace and community. The report highlights that women's empowerment will have a positive effect on business success and society.
States of the apes: The impact of infrastructure development on biodiversity
5 September 2019
The impact of infrastructure projects on biodiversity are examined, using apes to illustrate how investors can contribute to biodiversity protection. A sustainable approach to infrastructure development, which mitigates environmental, financial and reputational risks of investment, is presented.
The ambition loop: How business and government can advance policies that fast track zero-carbon economic growth
1 November 2018
This report highlights how building on business leadership and strong national policy measures spur additional investment and action on businesses, accelerating the transition to a prosperous zero carbon economy. This requires an "ambition loop" - a positive feedback loop between business leadership and government policies.
Over 100 global financial institutions are exiting coal, with more to come
27 February 2019
This report published by IEEFA highlights the fact that over a hundred globally significant financial institutions are divesting from coal projects. It mentions that these major financial institutions, including commercial banks, insurance companies, pension funds, asset management companies, and development finance institutions, are building up the momentum against coal projects.
Poverty Footprint
25 September 2015
The Poverty Footprint is a tool that enables companies and partners to implement a people-centred assessment of corporate impacts on poverty. The report is used to better understand the impacts of operations and value chain on people and poverty, and to turn this learning into action.
SDG Industry Matrix: Energy, natural resources and chemicals
31 January 2017
The Industry Matrix aims to inspire and inform the private sector, driving it towards inclusiveness and sustainable prosperity by identifying opportunities for greater social and environmental change. This Matrix applies to industries involved in energy, natural resources and chemicals, outlining ways that companies can create value for shareholders as well as society.
Sustainable reality: Analyzing risk and returns of sustainable funds
6 August 2019
Based on research conducted on the performance of nearly 11,000 mutual funds from 2004 to 2018, Morgan Stanley Institute for Sustainable Investment finds no statistically significant difference in returns between sustainable funds and traditional funds. However, sustainable funds demonstrated 20% lower downside risk than traditional funds.
Edwards Mother Earth Foundation: An impact investment case study
25 September 2018
A case study of a 100% impact investing strategy conducted by a private foundation with a $35 million portfolio. The report lays out a roadmap similar foundations can follow in pursuing impact investing.
Sustainability-linked bond principles: Voluntary process guidelines
8 June 2020
This report introduces the Sustainability-Linked Bond (SLB) Principles and provides guidelines for structural features, disclosure and reporting, to bring integrity into the SLB market. The guide is intended for market participants and designed to drive the provision of information to increase capital allocation in these instruments.
The case for sustainable bond investing strengthens
22 October 2018
This report is an expanded research study on a previous study conducted by Barclays. It provides deep insight into the relationship between environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors and their influence on credit portfolio performance. In particular, looking at the effect of ESG on euro-denominated and US investment grade and high-yield bond markets.
ESG in fixed income
15 January 2020
This guide created by BMO Global Asset Management shows how and why they incorporate ESG factors and stewardship activities into their corporate fixed income investments and engagement approach. The guide also looks at how the growing sustainable bonds market is enabling fixed income investors to align investments with sustainability goals.
SDG Industry Matrix: Industrial manufacturing
31 July 2016
The Industry Matrix outlines 17 Sustainable Development Goals with industry specific practical examples that companies can incorporate and follow. These industry specific ideas outline opportunities to create blended value by addressing both shareholder interests and welfare of the society.
T100 Powered Ascent report: Insights from the frontiers of impact investing 2018
31 May 2018
The Powered Ascent report is the second in the T100 Impact Portfolio Series. The T100 Project is a longitudinal study of the impact investing experience of Toniic 100% Impact Network members. The report combines an analysis of investment portfolio data from 76 members with stories of their personal journeys.
SDG Industry Matrix: Transportation
31 December 2015
The main purpose of the Matrix is to attract and influence the transportation industry to take measures that drive the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Matrix provides industry specific ideas and leading examples for each SDG, and outlines opportunities for the industry, as well as society, through shared value.
Fixed income investor guide: Putting responsible investment into practice in fixed income
31 October 2014
This is a guide for fixed income investors to implement responsible investment (RI) principles. A key application is using environmental, social and governance (ESG) integration to determine an issuer's creditworthiness. Motivations for applying RI in fixed income vary from pursuing financial value through the management of risks and opportunities to ethical motivations and reputational concerns.
The 2019 ethical fashion report: The truth behind the barcode
9 April 2019
The 2019 Ethical Fashion Report is Baptist World Aid's sixth consecutive report on labour rights and environmental management that grades 130 companies on their systems to mitigate against the risks of forced labour, child labour, and exploitation in their supply chains.
Active ownership 2.0: The evolution stewardship urgently needs
20 November 2019
Active Ownership 2.0 is a proposed aspirational standard for improved stewardship. It builds on existing practice and expertise but explicitly prioritises the seeking of outcomes over process and activity, and common goals and effort over narrow interests. This paper sets out the case for change and a high-level framework for what the standard could involve.
Essential guide to debt finance
22 May 2019
A guide to help organisations align their treasury teams and sustainability objectives to improve environmental and social outcomes, and in doing so bring value to their organisations. The report considers actions and opportunities as well as practical guidance on how treasury and finance teams can respond to social and environmental risk while adding value.
Empty nets: How overfishing risks leaving investors stranded
8 November 2017
In a report written under the Fish Tracker Initiative, this document provides an overview of seafood exposure in equity capital markets, focusing on fishing related risks. This report is written with the purpose of aligning the world's capital markets with sustainable management of fisheries and aquaculture.
Protecting our best interests: Rediscovering fiduciary obligation
24 March 2011
ShareAction (formerly FairPensions) report on the fiduciary obligations of different types of investors, exploring how the interpretation of this relationship has shifted from its traditional meaning. A detailed analysis concludes with recommendations for government departments, regulators and investors, to ensure that fiduciary principles are indeed protecting beneficiaries.
SDG Industry Matrix: Food, beverage and consumer goods
31 December 2015
This report aims to inspire and inform the food, beverage, and consumer goods industry to take action to drive inclusive sustainable prosperity. The report depicts the opportunities for shared value from company actions, including leading industry examples, through the lens of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Planetary boundaries: Guiding human development on a changing planet
13 February 2015
The planetary boundaries concept presents a set of nine planetary boundaries within which humanity can continue to develop and thrive for generations to come; a 'safe operating space'. Crossing these boundaries increases the risk of generating large-scale abrupt or irreversible environmental changes.
How to read a financial institution's policy: Analysing cluster munitions divestment policies
23 March 2016
Financial institutions consider cluster munitions companies as inappropriate business partners and have made efforts to restrict their investment. Unfortunately, their policies contain loopholes that could still allow their financing. Several steps have been introduced in order to help analyse a financial institution's policy and prevent cluster munitions exposure in portfolios.
Investor action on climate change
30 September 2017
The report assesses the investment practices of signatories to the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) on the topic of climate change. In partnership between PRI and Novethic, the report includes themes such as long-termism, climate-related risks and opportunities, scenario analysis and innovation for a successful transition to a low carbon economy.
The COVID-19 Corporate Response Tracker: How America’s largest employers are treating stakeholders amid the coronavirus crisis
31 March 2020
The 2020 novel coronavirus pandemic and impending recession have created an opportunity for corporate leaders to put stakeholder capitalism into practice. JUST Capital has created a tracker to assess America’s largest employers’ response in supporting their workers, customers and communities. They have also developed principles to guide corporate America during the crisis.
Sustainable signals: Individual investor interest driven by impact, conviction and choice
11 September 2019
The report highlights key findings from Morgan Stanley’s Sustainable Signals survey. It focuses on individual investor attitudes, adoption rates and barriers to sustainable investment’s position in mainstream strategies. It supports the case for asset managers and financial advisors to expand solutions and capabilities in order to keep pace with increasing investor demand.
The impact investing journey: Aligning portfolio with purpose
23 October 2018
This report describes how a philanthropic organisation uses impact investing throughout its portfolio. Society has changed its view on ethical investing, and The Russell Family Foundation has implemented this in their mission. Three pillars of their portfolio target social, environmental and financial areas of investing, and these allow them to achieve their company objectives.
Multi-asset investments: Managing sustainability from a total portfolio perspective
31 March 2019
Integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria into existing portfolios involves considerations beyond benchmark tracking and diversification such as budgets for governance and risk as well as portfolio impacts of different types of ESG implementation. The report explores ESG portfolio integration as well as outlining trade-offs in portfolio management.
From risk to resilience: Engaging with corporates to build adaptive capacity
30 June 2018
This report outlines how investors can identify whether certain companies are at a heightened risk as a result of extreme weather events. Additionally, it addresses how communications between corporate companies and investors can mitigate these risks and respond accordingly, thus promoting better adaptability to the financial risks of climate change.
Digging deeper: Human rights and the extractives sector
19 July 2018
The report examines significant human rights issues in the extractives sector value chain, and summarises the key outcomes and insights of a PRI-coordinated (Principles for Responsible Investment) engagement with companies. Importantly, the report highlights the key elements that investors should consider when engaging with mining, oil and gas companies.
Guide to unlocking prosperity: Finance, investment and sustainable development
31 December 2017
Companies and institutional investors can contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through their business activities and investment decisions. This guide lists the many actions that these financial industry participants can take to achieve these goals across sectors including education, clean energy, agriculture, and health.
Climate change: Awareness to action
20 March 2019
Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has highlighted the financial risks of climate change facing financial services organisations, saying that they are material, foreseeable and actionable now. APRA’s survey of 38 entities summarises the activities that those entities are adopting to mitigate financial risks. This information paper provides APRA's insights into responses to their survey.
SDG Industry Matrix: Financial services
30 September 2015
The Matrix provides industry specific ideas for action and industry specific practical examples for each relevant SDG. It profiles opportunities which companies expect to create value for shareholders as well as for society.
Circular economy: From review of theories and practices to development of implementation tools
23 November 2017
The paper provides an overview of the literature on Circular Economy theoretical approaches, strategies and implementation cases. After analysing different Circular Economy approaches and the underlying principles, the paper then proceeds with developing tools for Circular Economy implementation. The tools discussed include a strategies database and an implementation database.
A portfolio approach to impact investment
1 October 2012
This paper is a practical guide on how to build and analyse a portfolio of impact, which is based on a graphical assessment of impact investments along the dimensions of impact, risk and return. The framework offers insight into the construction of a target profile, mapping individual investments and aggregate portfolios, as well as risk management.
Integrating the SDGs into corporate reporting: A practical guide
31 August 2018
This guide builds on earlier work, in particular, the SDG Compass developed by the United Nations (UN) Global Compact, Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), which offers a starting point for companies approaching the SDGs, including resources. This practical guide does not create a new reporting framework. Rather, it outlines a three-step process to embed the SDGs in existing business and reporting processes.
Framing the future of corporate governance: Deloitte governance framework
31 December 2016
This report outlines the Deloitte governance framework which provides board members with an end-to-end view of corporate governance. The aim of the framework is to act as a tool for board members and executives to quickly identify potential opportunities to improve both effectiveness and efficiency within the organisation structure.
The toll from coal: An updated assessment of death and disease from America’s dirtiest energy source
30 September 2010
Emissions from the coal-fired power plant industry in the form of fine particle pollution, global warming, ozone smog, acid rain and regional haze, cause significant negative effects on human beings. Research shows that death or disease from coal-based electricity production in the United States, can be reduced if the pollution from coal plants is addressed.
Human rights: The foundation of sustainable business
30 November 2018
In December 2018, the world celebrated the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Two of the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact are derived directly from the Universal Declaration. The United Nations Global Compact is advocating for businesses to stand up for human rights, promoting uptake of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
The value of responsible investment
31 December 2014
The research explores the moral, financial and economic justification for responsible investment, and the academic evidence underpinning future action. It concentrates on how ESG factors materially impact investment risk and returns, clarifying the agency of investors over non-financial value creation.
The SDG investment case
13 October 2017
Companies and institutional investors are being asked to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through their business activities, asset allocation and investment decisions. The SDG investment case tries to answer the question: Why are the SDGs relevant to institutional investors?
Global standards miss the nuance in local child labour
13 May 2015
Research conducted by Young Lives on improving the current issue of child labour provided from a view that differs from the conventional approach: improving working conditions is more constructive than merely banning child labour altogether, as doing so would miss the social and economic nuances such as relationship ties, supporting families and gaining skills.
Making a splash
27 November 2012
Nature Climate Change and Nature Geoscience jointly present 'Water in a warming world', a collection of research highlighting many of the key issues in this important area of climate change research. This article highlights some of the research on the potential impacts of climate change on the world's water resources.
How investors integrate ESG: A typology of approaches
Understanding how investors are applying the growing supply of corporate ESG information into their investment decision-making is increasingly important. This report aims to help investors navigate the rapidly changing responsible investing landscape by developing a typology that classifies approaches to environmental, social and governance (ESG) integration.
Global corporate green investment and the UN Sustainable Development Goals: How green bonds can help close the funding gap
6 March 2019
This research identifies the potential for increased green bond issuance to support the green investment needs of large global publicly traded companies across all sectors. Comparing companies’ business as usual (BAU) to pathways aligned to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), case studies illustrate how green bonds can support transitions to low-carbon business models.
Worldwide investments in cluster munitions: A shared responsibility
3 December 2018
A 2018 report on worldwide investments in harmful cluster munitions. Two arms manufacturers recently ended production of cluster munitions, and more financial institutions and states are acting to end money going to producers. Despite declining investment from financial institutions, there are seven companies in the report still manufacturing.
Navigating the sustainable investment landscape
31 December 2016
This paper informs asset owners about the current state of sustainable investing for US institutional investors. Drawing on the experiences of over 100 asset owners and investment professional as well as evidence from WRI’s own endowment the paper constructs a detailed outline of sustainable investing. It highlights the underlying motives and drivers, governance structures, relevant data and standards, investment vehicles, and key barriers that shape opportunities for implementation.
What is responsible investment?
31 December 2019
This article defines responsible investment, highlights the ways in which it is currently applied to managing assets, and outlines the key forces driving its growth. Additionally, it discusses common misconceptions about responsible investment.
Investing in a time of climate change: The sequel 2019
30 April 2019
This report is intended to help investors understand how climate change can influence their investment performance in both the short and long term. The research uses scenarios from the Cambridge Econometrics transition-risk climate model, to consider three scenarios; 2⁰C, 3⁰C and 4⁰C temperature increases, with evolved pathways and magnitude.
ESG and corporate financial performance: Mapping the global landscape
31 December 2015
This white paper highlights whether integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria into the investment process has had a positive effect on corporate financial performance (CFP), whether the effect was stable over time, how a link between ESG and CFP differs across regions and asset classes and whether any specific subcategory of E, S or G had a dominant influence on CFP.
Business: It's time to act. Decent work, modern slavery and child labour
1 January 2018
Decent work cannot exist where modern slavery and child labour persist, yet it is widespread across the globe. Nevertheless, a world with decent jobs can be realised with the help of companies.
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Gender lens investing
Expert Guide for: Financial advice, investment
16 November 2023
Gender lens investing (GLI) involves a range of investment approaches that seek to improve gender outcomes. GLI strategies promote gender equality and women’s empowerment, while also generating financial returns. This guide defines GLIs, explores the practical implementation of gender lens strategies with case studies and best practice, and highlights top ways to learn more.
Empowering female investors
10 October 2022
The latest ASX Investor Study noted that women comprised 45% of total new investors over the 12-month period to March 2021, highlighting a positive uptick of female shareholders in the equity market, and progress toward enhancing women’s economic empowerment.
