Library | ESG issues
Law, Regulation & Compliance
The evolving legal and regulatory landscape financial organisations regarding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations comprises both voluntary frameworks and mandatory regulations. Voluntary initiatives, such as the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), provide guidelines for companies to disclose climate-related financial risks and opportunities. In contrast, mandatory regulations like the European Union’s Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) require financial market participants to disclose how they integrate ESG factors into their investment decisions.
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Modern slavery and remediation - an investor's guide
This guide explores the role of investors in addressing modern slavery within their portfolios. It provides practical steps for identifying risks, engaging investee companies, and enabling remediation when harm occurs. It includes case studies, recommendations, and legal frameworks to help investors meet their obligations and protect human rights.
From taking stock to taking action - How to implement the COP28 energy goals
The report outlines global energy transition goals, including tripling renewable energy capacity and doubling energy efficiency by 2030. It provides guidance for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, emphasising the importance of international cooperation, investment in grids and storage, and just, equitable transitions away from fossil fuels. The report highlights key challenges and opportunities for accelerating clean energy adoption globally.
Policy model for gender-inclusive finance
This paper outlines key strategies for policymakers and regulators to foster women's financial inclusion. It emphasises addressing societal barriers, leveraging digital financial services, and promoting regulatory frameworks. By advancing gender equity in finance, it contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, with a focus on economic empowerment, reducing inequalities, and fostering inclusive growth.
Alliance for Financial Inclusion (AFI)
Alliance for Financial Inclusion (AFI) is a global network of central banks and financial regulators promoting financial inclusion policies in developing countries. AFI supports its members in implementing inclusive policies to increase access to financial services, reduce poverty, and promote economic growth. Learn more about their work and initiatives.
From financial inclusion to financial health
This report explores the transition from financial inclusion to financial health, emphasising the need for accessible, high-quality financial services. It highlights that while inclusion is essential, poor service provision or lack of financial literacy can undermine financial health. Public policy recommendations focus on financial literacy, consumer protection, and regulatory measures.
Investigating global aquatic food loss and waste
This report explores the global issue of aquatic food loss and waste (FLW), quantifying it across various species and product types. In 2021, approximately 14.8% of aquatic foods were lost or wasted globally. The report identifies hotspots, outlines key drivers, and suggests targeted interventions to enhance sustainability in the aquatic food industry.
Screening for responsible investment in agriculture and food systems: Guidance and tools for government officials
This report provides guidance for government officials on screening investments in agriculture and food systems to ensure responsible practices. It outlines due diligence processes to assess investors, potential risks, and benefits while promoting sustainable development. The toolkit includes adaptable screening tools to identify responsible projects and enhance transparency in investment decisions.
Columbia Center on Sustainable Investment
Columbia Center on Sustainable Investment (CCSI) is a leading research centre focused on sustainable investment practices. CCSI provides resources, analysis, and tools to support responsible investment in natural resources and infrastructure. Its work promotes social, environmental, and economic sustainability while addressing issues like human rights and community engagement.
The role of commercial paper in the sustainable finance market
This report explores the growing role of commercial paper (CP) in sustainable finance, focusing on its use in financing green and sustainable projects. It categorises CP into Use of Proceeds and Sustainability-Linked CP, discussing market data, feasibility, and challenges.
Embedding just transition into corporate climate action strategies
This report explores how businesses can integrate the concept of a just transition into their climate action strategies. It outlines key frameworks, corporate responsibilities, and challenges, offering guidance for ensuring social and environmental considerations are embedded in decarbonisation efforts.
Sustainable behavior in climate pledges: An analysis of top emitters’ strategies
This report analyses how the top 20 highest-emitting countries address pro-climate behaviour through their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). It highlights that while progress has been made in promoting electric vehicles, public transport, and household energy efficiency, crucial areas like sustainable diets and air travel are often overlooked, limiting the potential for impactful change.
Sustainable finance in Asia: A comparative study of national taxonomies
This report compares national sustainable finance taxonomies in Asia, highlighting the variability in standards and approaches. It underscores the need for greater alignment with international frameworks to reduce inconsistencies, enhance clarity, and promote sustainable investments. Differences in fossil fuel treatment and transition finance provisions pose challenges to harmonisation and investor confidence.
Bioscience's annual state of the climate reports
This series offers an annual overview of climate trends, examining key indicators and events that impact the global environment. It provides insights into planetary vital signs, climate impacts, and extreme weather, making it an essential resource for finance professionals seeking to understand the implications of climate change on economic systems.
Improving governance on nature-related risks and opportunities
This brief highlights how biodiversity loss poses risks to businesses and urges company directors to integrate nature considerations into strategic planning. It assesses companies' practices using the World Benchmarking Alliance's Nature Benchmark and provides key insights for directors to manage nature-related risks and opportunities, enhancing corporate resilience in a nature-positive transition.
Green investing and political behavior
This study examines whether green investing reduces political support for climate regulation. Using a pre-registered experiment involving a real referendum in Switzerland, the findings suggest that climate-conscious investments do not erode support for climate policies. The study provides evidence that sustainable investing and political engagement are complementary, not substitutes.
Financing a sustainable global bioeconomy
This report highlights the role of bioeconomy finance in addressing climate, nature, and equity goals. This report analyses challenges, instruments, and opportunities for financing the bioeconomy globally, advocating for integrated strategies and international collaboration. It emphasises equitable development, biodiversity conservation, and the potential for job creation and economic growth.
