The aim of this paper is to create transparency regarding the current understandings of the circular economy concept. The findings indicate that the circular economy is most frequently depicted as a combination of reduce, reuse and recycle activities. Concerningly, many definitions overlook that circular economy necessitates a systemic shift.

The research investigates the disagreement in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) ratings between rating providers. Three factors are identified: measurement divergence, scope divergence and weight divergence. The paper argues for a standardisation of ESG indicators and measurement procedures to reduce the discrepancy in ESG ratings.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

This report examines the impact of China’s coal-fired power companies, and their inaction in responding to climate change. The report presents China’s six largest listed power companies and their associated CO2 emissions, as well as recommendations for investors to act on.

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.

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.