About | Ellysa Zainul

Ellysa Zainul

Ellysa is dedicated to social justice and queer rights, she is on a mission to offer financial sustainability resources in support of these causes.

PROFILE

Ellysa is dedicated to social justice and queer rights, she is on a mission to offer financial sustainability resources in support of these causes.

RECENTLY REVIEWED BY ELLYSA ZAINUL

Navigating a new era of business and human rights

Business and Human Rights Resource Centre
This book highlights the intersection of corporate practices and human rights. It explores evolving challenges, regulatory landscapes, and the importance of collaborative, ethical business conduct. Key themes include transparency, state roles, and the human rights-based approach, offering insights for stakeholders to navigate this complex field.
Research
7 August 2019

Right direction, wrong equipment: Why transition risks do not fit into regulatory stress tests

Sustainable Finance Observatory
The authors of this report explore the challenges of integrating climate-related risks into regulatory stress tests. They demonstrate that supervisory risk assessment frameworks struggle to capture long-term systemic risks, and offer recommendations for developing a 'long-term risk;' supervision 'infrastructure.'
Research
21 September 2017

Is regulation enough? A review of UK master trusts' ESG policies

ShareAction
This report explores the approach to climate change risk by UK's largest master trusts. It examines 16 master trusts' ESG policies and practices, focusing on the work of the trustees and their engagement with investee companies on ESG practices and risk management. The report draws attention to some positive developments, showing that some schemes have incorporated ESG and/or climate change factors into their asset allocation strategy.
Research
19 December 2019

Climate scenario analysis: Cement's financial performance under 2°c and 2.7°c

The report examines the financial implications of climate transition scenarios on the cement sector's future. It provides useful insights to company analysis and financial risk analysis for the cement sector, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the impact of climate transition scenarios.
Research
26 July 2018

We know our lives are in danger: Environment of fear in South Africa's mining-affected communities

Centre for Environmental Rights
This report highlights how mining has affected South African communities and examines the legal framework and community engagement procedures relating to mining activity. It discusses the impacts of mining on communities in terms of health, environment, livelihoods and social cohesion, as well as the high levels of violence in these communities.
Research
11 April 2019

Asset-level data and the energy transition: Findings from ET risk work package 2

Sustainable Finance Observatory
This report demonstrates the potential of asset-level data to manage risks and opportunities arising from the transition to a net-zero emissions economy. The authors develop a demonstrator database of assets across six carbon-intensive industries, calculating cumulative committed carbon emissions (CCCE) and potential reductions (RCCCE) through retrofits.
Research
10 April 2018

A little less conversation, a little more action: 10 lessons learned from 10 years of helping investors to tackle climate

ISS
This report presents 10 lessons for investors on tackling climate change. Through this summary, the authors offer insights on methodologies for climate scenario analysis, the intersection of reporting and acting, an effective climate voting process, the role of regulators in transparent carbon neutral investments, among other topics.
Research
20 August 2021

Leaders or laggards? Tax and revenue transparency of ASX listed mining, gas and oil companies

Ethical Partners
This report investigates the tax and revenue transparency disclosure policies of 20 ASX listed mining, gas and oil companies. It examines indicators deemed as "best practices" for conformity to standards, such as country-by-country reporting, mandatory disclosure legislation and The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative. Recommendations are to move towards mandatory regulation and better disclosure.
Research
27 July 2020

The biomass blind spot

ShareAction
This report highlights the financial and reputational risks associated with the biomass power sector's impact on climate change. The report provides recommendations for investors and banks engaged with the sector, including not providing financial support for new biomass power infrastructure.

Research
7 February 2019

Tobacco free portfolios: The toolkit 12th edition

Tobacco Free Portfolios
This toolkit offers a framework for finance professionals to invest in tobacco-free portfolios. The toolkit covers various areas including the Tobacco-Free Finance Pledge, prospective investment risks and case studies, with a call to action for the industry to follow.
Research
28 January 2020

Sustainable finance forum: Legal opinion 2019

The Aotearoa Circle
This report, and legal opinion, lays out the current legal obligations on directors of New Zealand companies and retail managed investment schemes to address climate risks. It finds that these obligations are evolving and expanding, driven by the growing recognition of the material financial risk climate change presents for businesses.
Research
29 October 2019

Business reporting on the SDGs: An analysis of the goals and targets 2022

Global Reporting Initiative
This report offers a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals and how businesses can align their practices with these goals through transparent disclosures and disclosures reporting. This 2022 edition provides actionable steps for businesses to contribute to sustainable development.
Research
28 July 2022

The good transition plan: Climate action strategy development guidance for banks and lending institutions: COP26-version

Climate Safe Lending Network
This guide is designed for banks and lending institutions to assist in the creation of a climate action strategy. The report analyses the challenges and solutions to financing transitions towards a climate-safe world, outlining a comprehensive seven-element framework, key tools for measuring alignment with Paris Goals, and numerous sector guidelines.
Research
1 February 2022

Mapping ocean governance and regulation

This report provides an overview of ocean governance and regulations through the lenses of ocean-based industries, addressing international governance, key industries, emerging issues and regulatory developments, cross-cutting challenges and the role of the private sector through the UN Global Compact Action Platform for Sustainable Ocean Business.
Research
24 September 2018

Catalysing bank climate action: Lessons from the inside

Climate Safe Lending Network
This report shares insights from the Climate Safe Lending Fellowship, a programme for banking professionals committed to accelerating the decarbonisation of their institutions. The report offers practical approaches and tools used by climate intrapreneurs to help their banks transition toward climate-safe banking.
Research
28 June 2022

The third, systems stage of corporate governance: Why institutional investors need to move beyond modern portfolio theory

The authors of this paper argue that institutional investors need to move beyond Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT), and consider a wider risk management strategy. The paper outlines the potential failings of MPT and suggests ways for institutional investors to better align with the needs of society and the economy.
Research
1 February 2018

RECENTLY PUBLISHED BY ELLYSA ZAINUL

Australian Sustainable Finance Capability Framework: Updated pilot version

Australian Sustainable Finance Institute (ASFI)
The updated Australian Sustainable Finance Capability Framework outlines key competencies for roles in sustainable finance across Australia. It integrates First Nations perspectives, focuses on social and environmental sustainability, and guides skill development in areas such as strategy, risk management, and reporting to support sector-wide capability uplift.
Research
17 October 2024

Nature-related financial disclosures: Frequently asked questions

Governance Institute of Australia
This FAQ guide explains key concepts in nature-related financial disclosures, including biodiversity, dependencies, impacts, and the TNFD framework. It outlines disclosure requirements, materiality, governance responsibilities, and greenwashing risks, offering practical insights for businesses preparing for future regulatory expectations and aligning with international sustainability standards.
Research
1 July 2024

Carbon accounting FAQs - August 2023

Chartered Accountants Australia + New Zealand
This FAQ guide by CA ANZ outlines key carbon accounting concepts, including emissions measurement, net zero versus carbon neutral, carbon markets, and related financial and ethical considerations. It supports finance professionals with evolving standards, regulatory requirements, and practical guidance for managing climate-related data and assurance services using science-based methodologies.
Research
17 May 2023

Navigating the Australian climate-related financial disclosure landscape

Chartered Accountants Australia + New Zealand
This guide outlines Australia’s new climate-related financial disclosure requirements commencing in 2025. It defines reporting thresholds, timelines, and compliance pathways for entities based on size and emissions reporting status, and details implementation steps aligned with AASB and IFRS standards for climate and sustainability reporting.
Research
18 July 2024

Chartered Accountants Australia + New Zealand

Finance Industry Groups
Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) supports accounting professionals through education, regulation and advocacy. It offers qualifications, professional development and industry insights. CA ANZ maintains high ethical and technical standards across Australia and New Zealand. Visit to explore membership, resources, events and guidance for accounting and finance professionals.
Organisation
3 research items

Critical mineral series: Sustainability considerations for investors in copper mining

ISS
This report examines copper’s role in the energy transition, highlighting growing demand, environmental and human rights risks, and evolving global regulations. It evaluates mining companies’ sustainability performance using biodiversity, governance, and modern slavery metrics, offering insights for responsible investment aligned with international standards and long-term ESG considerations.
Research
20 May 2025

The root cause of nature loss: Forests, why they matter, and how to assess deforestation risk in investment portfolios through nature-related data

ISS
This report outlines how deforestation, particularly in tropical forests, is a key driver of biodiversity loss and climate change. It presents the risks to institutional investors—physical, transition, and systemic—and offers a framework to assess deforestation exposure in portfolios using nature-related data and metrics across sectors and geographies..
Research
9 January 2025

Putting TNFD to work: Insights from early adopters

ISS
This report analyses how early adopters are implementing the TNFD framework, highlighting integration with climate disclosures, flexible use of the LEAP approach, and application of data tools. Insights show how businesses align nature-related risks with strategy and reporting, with regional uptake led by Asia Pacific and Europe.
Research
13 May 2025

V-Square Quantitative Management

Commercial Organisations
V-Square Quantitative Management (V-Square) is a global asset manager specialising in quantitative investment strategies with a focus on sustainability. Registered with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, V-Square offers customised solutions including thematic investing, ESG integration, and factor-based strategies. Their approach leverages data-driven models to identify market inefficiencies and long-term value opportunities.
Organisation

PRI's Pathways

Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI)
The PRI’s Pathways tool supports investors in aligning portfolios with sustainability goals. It provides guidance on implementing responsible investment practices, frameworks for transitioning to net zero, and resources to assess portfolio alignment with environmental and social outcomes. The tool is structured for practical application across different asset classes and strategies.
Online tool/database

Global responsible investment trends: Inside PRI reporting data 2025

Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI)
The 2025 PRI report analyses data from 3,048 signatories, highlighting trends in climate risk management, stewardship, and human rights. Asset owners show increased engagement, with climate and social issues gaining priority. Investors continue integrating responsible investment into decision-making and oversight, with varied progress across policy, governance, and disclosure practices.
Research
26 March 2025

CIM's impact report 2024

Conscious Investment Management
CIM’s FY2024 Impact Report details investments in social and affordable housing, disability accommodation, and carbon farming. The portfolio supported 260 homes, 114 SDA dwellings, and biodiversity-focused climate projects, while applying rigorous impact measurement. The report reflects lessons from emerging sectors and First Nations partnerships.
Research
10 October 2024

Conscious Investment Management

Finance Industry Groups
Conscious Investment Management is an Australian impact investment firm focused on generating measurable social and environmental outcomes. Its portfolio includes social and affordable housing, Specialist Disability Accommodation, renewable energy, carbon farming, and social impact bonds. CIM collaborates with not-for-profits and community housing providers, aligning investments with UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Organisation
1 research item

The disability inclusion imperative

Disability:IN
Companies excelling in disability inclusion earn higher revenue, profit, and productivity. Despite rising interest, action lags. Barriers include disclosure fears and cost assumptions. The report introduces a five-part “A List” framework—Access, Awareness, Advocacy, Action, Accountability—to guide inclusive practices and improve organisational and financial outcomes.
Research
20 January 2024

2024 board diversity index

Governance Institute of Australia
This benchmark series provides an annual analysis of board diversity across ASX300 companies. It tracks representation beyond gender, covering areas such as cultural background, skills, age, tenure, and independence. The series offers longitudinal insights to assess diversity trends and board composition in the Australian corporate sector.
Benchmark/series
2 April 2024

Australia's employer gender pay gaps series

Australian Government
This benchmark series, produced by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, reports on employer gender pay gaps across Australia’s private sector. It provides comparative insights into pay disparity trends by industry, employer size, and remuneration levels, supporting ongoing evaluation and improvement of workplace gender equality practices.
Benchmark/series
4 March 2025