PRI Commentary

09/10/2024
Commenting on the Canadian government’s announcement of a plans for both a Canadian climate taxonomy and to mandate climate disclosures for large federally incorporated private companies, PRI CEO David Atkin commented:

“The PRI welcomes Deputy Prime Minister Freeland’s announcements today on both mandated climate-related financial disclosures for large, federally incorporated private companies, and on plans for a made-in-Canada sustainable taxonomy. These are significant steps forward for investors here in Canada and around the world, signifying Canada’s clear commitment to incorporate climate targets in the nation’s economic transition.

“The commitment to a scientifically credible approach aligned with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5c above pre-industrial levels is a vital component of the global transition. As such, we warmly welcome the role that these policy changes can play in delivering further alignment with planetary boundaries. The PRI looks forward to working with signatories and policymakers in supporting these announcements as they are implemented.”

25/09/2024
Commenting on Korea SIF’s (KoSIF) Statement on Sustainability Disclosures Standards, Margarita Pirovska, PRI Director of Global Policy, said:

“We support the recommendations set forth by Korea SIF in their Statement, as it delivers a critical message aligned with PRI’s positions calling for the adoption of the ISSB Standards by local and regional governments. The current absence of consistent and high-quality sustainability data complicates investor decision-making, and has been a barrier impeding the effective flow of capital toward broad sustainability objectives.

”We have engaged with policymakers across the Asia Pacific region and have welcomed the commitments made to early adoption of mandatory reporting aligned with the ISSB Standards. As such, we are particularly supportive of Korea SIF’s position highlighting the importance of timely adoption of sustainability disclosure standards into the statutory reporting regime.”

19/09/2024
Statement from PRI Head of US Policy, Greg Hershman,  upon the passage by the House of Representatives of H.R. 5339, Protecting Americans’ Investments from Woke Policies Act and H.R. 4790, Prioritizing Economic Growth Over Woke Policies Act:

“The PRI has consistently sought to engage with and educate elected officials and policy makers across the political spectrum throughout the wave of interest in ‘ESG’. Unfortunately, legislative efforts – including the proposals passed by the House – continue to misunderstand and misconstrue the basics of investment practice, the duties and responsibilities of investment professionals and the rights of shareholders. As a result, this legislation runs counter to the interests of Americans saving for retirement, college for their children, or a home. Growing evidence shows that similarly misguided efforts in some states have forced unnecessary costs upon American families and their communities by constraining the free market, resulting in lower returns for savers, higher borrowing costs, and fewer jobs.

“The PRI remains eager to engage in a productive discuss on the work of responsible investors and our shared goal of how to best protect and grow the savings of American workers and families.”

The PRI has previously considered the underlying provisions in both bills, finding that they would not achieve the stated aims and would have significant unintended consequences, and costs, for the financial services industry.

12/09/2024
Commenting on the release of the Principles of the UN Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals, Adam Matthews, the PRI representative on the Panel, said:

“It is clear we cannot have a global energy transition without mining. But the key question is whether the flow of minerals entering global supply chains will come from extraction that operates to the highest best practice social and environmental performance standards? Will the projected growth in demand result in greater local benefit for mineral dependent countries? And will regulation and financial levers drive a model of mining that ensures Indigenous Peoples, communities and countries will be able to look back in generations and recognise that the legacy of this extraction was a positive one? This for me was the challenge we approached as part of the UN Secretary General’s Advisory Panel, and it was an enormous privilege to be able to contribute to the recommendations that have been included in the final document today.

”I especially welcome the inclusion of a finance principle speaking to the need for investments, finance and trade to be responsible and fair. This finance principle underlines the importance of long-term decision making by investors and the vital role finance must play in an industry requiring long-term commitment as well as investment in associated infrastructure. Short-term thinking and profit generation has too often driven or incentivised behaviours that would undermine these principles. It is incumbent on investors to work practically through the PRI and UNEP backed Global Investor Commission on Mining 2030 to realise a different vision and role for investors in relation to this systemically important sector. Good practice exists in mining and this now needs to become the global minimum with a functioning market underpinned by traceability where no mine should be developed without a view to these principles and associated actions.

”It is enormously encouraging that there was so much support for the proposal to establish a Global Mining Legacy Fund to address multiple legacy issues as a result of derelict, ownerless or abandoned mines. Such mines are an anchor on the social license of the industry and pose risks to Indigenous Peoples, local communities, and the environment. If we are to see the necessary growth in mining for the transition then bringing to life such a Fund will be vital. This has been a key recommendation of the Global Investor Mining and Tailings Safety Initiative that was established following the Brumadinho Disaster. It is a tangible, practical and exciting development that presents a path for addressing one of the most challenging issues in the sector. This Fund cannot be developed without the support of industry, interested governments and I welcome the opportunity to work in partnership with both to bring this Fund to life.”

18/07/2024
Commenting on the European Parliament’s re-election of Ursula Von der Leyen as President of the European Commission, Elise Attal, PRI Head of EU Policy, said:

“The PRI welcomes the European Parliament’s confirmation of Ursula von der Leyen as President of the European Commission for a second term. The next commission must ensure a competitive, energy-secure, resilient and fair economic transition, take forward the EU’s sustainable finance agenda and continue the rollout of the Fit for 55 package.

”Investors need policy certainty, transparency and increased coherency within the regulatory framework to further enable and encourage sustainable finance practices. PRI’s recent 2030 EU Policy Roadmap outlines our policy recommendations for the next commission to accelerate private investment for the economic transition, including increased financing and clearer disclosure requirements. We stand ready to work closely with the European Commission and our signatories to develop a sustainable finance framework that is fit for purpose while alleviating implementation challenges for investors.”

17/06/2024
Commenting on the European Council’s support for the Nature Restoration Law, Martin Stavenhagen, PRI Policy Specialist on Climate and Transition, said:

“The PRI welcomes the European Council’s support for the Nature Restoration Law. This decision completes another key part of the EU Green Deal. It represents a win-win not just for nature and biodiversity, but also for the EU’s climate targets for 2030, which cannot be achieved without bolstering natural carbon sinks.

”The law strengthens the EU’s competitive sustainability and economic resilience by reducing material environmental and climate risks, safeguarding critical ecosystems and -services, and increasing the sustainable supply of natural resources. It also energises investments that contribute to both the net zero economy and nature restoration objectives.”

24/04/2024
Commenting on the European Parliament’s successful vote to approve the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), Margarita Pirovska, PRI Director of Global Policy, said:

“Today, Members of the European Parliament approved the final compromise text of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). PRI strongly welcomes this result, precisely 11 years since the Rana Plaza disaster, in which over 1,100 garment workers in Bangladesh were killed.

”Despite the reduction of companies in scope of the CSDDD, it is a significant piece of policy reform which will support investors to assess and address risks and impacts. Therefore, whether investee companies are currently in scope or not, investors will expect them to conduct full, risk-based sustainability due diligence. The final requirements under the CSDDD are proportionate and practicable and should play a critical role in the achievement of the EU’s sustainability goals which is fundamentally intertwined with EU competitiveness, security and resilience.”

28/02/2024
Commenting on the EU Parliament’s adoption of the Nature Restoration Law, Martin Stavenhagen, PRI Climate Policy Specialist said:

“The PRI welcomes the EU Parliament’s adoption of the Nature Restoration Law. Increasing biodiversity and securing crucial ecosystem services are at the heart of a prosperous and just European Green Deal, as the twinned nature and climate crisis can only be solved together.

”Restoring natural habitats and the species they host is vital to ensure Europe’s competitive sustainability, boost a strategic bioeconomy vital for the net zero transition, build resilience to mitigate natural disasters and reduce risks to food security, and honour the EU’s global climate and biodiversity commitments. PRI now calls for a swift implementation of the Nature Restoration Law, including strong provisions for climate and biodiversity finance. PRI will continue working to ensure investor interests in nature and biodiversity are represented.”

06/02/2024
Commenting on the European Commission’s impact assessment on EU climate targets for 2040, Martin Stavenhagen, PRI Climate Policy Specialist, said:

“PRI welcomes the Commission’s recommendation of at least -90% emission reductions for the EU’s 2040 climate target. Scientific advice supports this target as the most effective and feasible path to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 and limit global temperature increase to 1.5C (in line with the Paris Climate Agreement) while ensuring the EU’s competitiveness, clean technology leadership, and attractiveness for global investments. 

”To support the transition, investors and financial markets need policy predictability, regulatory certainty, and strong market signals that incentivise green investments and discourage carbon lock-in. Thus, PRI recommends the Commission to include three key priorities in a robust legislative proposal to make it effective and practical for implementation.  

• First, the Commission should provide sectoral decarbonisation roadmaps on how to reach the 2040 targets, detailing infrastructure and technology needs, investment needs and allocated resources, and economic and social measures to ensure an equitable and just transition. 
• Second, the Commission should support a swift implementation of Fit for 55 policies, to accelerate electrification and renewable energy deployment; reduce energy and material demand; and enhance nature-based solutions for carbon removals, climate resilience, and biodiversity.  
• Finally, the EU faces an annual investment gap of more than EUR 1.5 trillion to reach climate neutrality by 2050. To incentivise global investments, the Commission should provide transparency on its long-term transition funding and attract private capital with a strong sustainable finance framework and innovative public sector support.  

”Against the backdrop of accelerating global warming and the associated risks this entails for investors and corporates alike, it is more essential than ever for the next Commission to stay committed to an ambitious European Green Deal, to ensure a sustainable and prosperous economy. The Commission’s 2040 target recommendation is a welcome first step, but the key will be to turn it into concrete action – starting with an equally ambitious legislative proposal to enshrine the 2040 target into law.”

25/1/2024
Commenting on the outcome of the Solvency II negotiations, Elise Attal, PRI Head of EU Policy, said:

“We welcome the decision to keep sustainability as a key feature of the Solvency II framework. As underwriters and investors, (re)insurers have a crucial role in driving the transition to a sustainable economy. Upholding the requirement to take into account sustainability impact, as part of the prudent person principle, empowers them to play their part in the transition.

”Echoing EIOPA’s 2019 advice, the requirement for (re)insurers to consider the impact of investments on sustainability factors does not lead to sacrificing financial returns. On the contrary, integrating sustainability considerations into investment decisions can enhance both financial and sustainability performance. The Legal Framework for Impact report and the subsequent EU LFI policy report  demonstrated that financial objectives and sustainability impact goals are not mutually exclusive.

”Looking ahead, we call on the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) to provide clear guidance on how (re)insurers should take into account sustainability impact. For more information, see our blog.”

18/12/2023
Commenting on the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation, Elise Attal, PRI Head of EU Policy, said:

“SFDR has a central role in the sustainable finance framework. While the regulation has structured investors’ ESG strategies and reporting, its impact on mobilising capital towards sustainable activities remains unclear. Therefore, the PRI supports the development of minimum sustainability criteria to better distinguish financial product categories under SFDR, as well as a baseline of sustainability disclosures for all products, regardless of their sustainability claims. This would contribute to creating a level playing field regarding sustainability reporting obligations and increase comparability across financial products in the EU.

”Sustainability-related product categories and corresponding disclosures should also aim for greater interoperability with relevant frameworks in other markets. To simplify global distribution and reduce costs for financial market participants, the European Commission and the ESAs should work with IOSCO to ensure a common baseline of disclosures requirements (based on the IOSCO 2021 guidelines) and global principles for the cross-border compatibility of sustainability-related product categories. For more information, see our consultation response.”

14/12/2023
Commenting on the outcome of negotiations at COP28, David Atkin, CEO at the PRI, said:

“The agreement at COP28 to transition away from fossil fuels is a welcome milestone for the planet and for investors around the globe. Consensus on this point is a significant moment and helps set the agenda for the coming decades of progress on tackling climate change. We also welcome the recognition of nature’s role in addressing climate mitigation and adaptation goals, as well as the progress on the loss and damage fund during this COP.

”However, there remain some critical areas where further work is needed. We still need clarity and stronger commitments on phasing out fossil fuels, particularly encompassing the needs of developing countries as part of a just transition. We know that investors urgently need policymakers to facilitate an enabling environment for further industry action on climate issues. Without this, the work of investors will be hindered and the vital role of the private sector – the importance of which is acknowledged in the final draft agreement – will be ineffective. Private sector finance will help facilitate the transition, but policymakers must help shape how financial flows will ultimately be compatible with a low carbon, climate resilient future. The PRI hopes that this COP agreement bolsters future policy developments which align with this outcome.”

14/12/2023
Commenting on the provisional agreement reached for the CSDDD on 14 December 2023, Margarita Pirovska, PRI Director of Global Policy said:

“Last night European policy makers reached a provisional agreement on the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). The financial sector is excluded from due diligence requirements, except for their own operations upstream (this may change subject to an impact assessment as set out in a review clause in the directive). This is a significant missed opportunity to create a clear and harmonised legislative framework to support investors to understand and manage the impact of their investment decisions via proportionate due diligence aligned with international standards. That said, PRI welcomes the inclusion of the financial sector in Article 15 – climate change is a systemic issue and all companies should have plans in place to prepare for and support the economic transition towards a carbon neutral economy. PRI will continue to engage with policymakers to ensure that a detailed impact assessment is undertaken promptly and future due diligence obligations for the financial sector are practicable, effective and beneficial to the industry.”

8/12/2023
Commenting on the upcoming CSDDD trilogue negotiation on 13 December, Nathan Fabian, PRI Chief Sustainable Systems Officer said:

“Due diligence is a critical element of a responsible investor’s toolkit, supporting sustainability assessments, risk analysis and engagement with investees. Against this background, PRI welcomes the proposed Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) and supports the appropriate and practicable inclusion of the financial sector. Done well, this will clarify and harmonise the legislative framework; support investors to understand and manage the impacts of their investment decisions; and bring greater policy certainty. 

To be clear, achievable and proportionate, the due diligence requirements should complement and reinforce existing obligations, follow the risk-based approach in line with international standards, and be accompanied by precise and timely sectoral guidance.

The CSDDD is a much-needed step forward to ensure that economic activities tied to the EU single market are conducted in a responsible manner and will play a critical role in the EU’s path towards the goals of the green deal. We encourage policymakers to find an appropriate and effective agreement to achieve this before the Parliamentary elections next year.”

1/12/2023
Commenting on the launch of the GFANZ capacity building coalition, David Atkin, CEO at the PRI, said:

“As the global responsible investment ecosystem continues to evolve, it’s vital that the sector coalesces around a unified vision and shared goals for the future of sustainable finance. Already, work to establish a community of best practice has proven vital in driving ambition and action on the most pressing climate issues. The launch of the Global Capacity Building Coalition provides a platform for enhanced collaboration on capacity building programmes to accelerate EMDE FIs’ transition to net-zero. The work of the Coalition – to identify where future attention must be focussed and marshal global efforts in the right direction – stands to form a lynchpin of the global sustainable finance landscape.”

29/11/2023
Commenting on the launch of the FCA’s SDR Policy Statement, Margarita Pirovska, PRI Director of Global Policy, said

“’The PRI welcomes the FCA’s Sustainability Disclosure Requirements (SDR) and investment labels regime. The responsible investment landscape is fast-moving and needs guardrails in place. Until now, there have not yet been clear regulatory standards to support investor disclosure on sustainability claims.

Through a comprehensive approach to sustainable investment labels, disclosure requirements, anti-greenwashing rule, and restrictions on sustainability-related terms in product naming and marketing, the FCA has created a solid framework for the responsible investment ecosystem to coalesce around. Each product type is designed to deliver a non-hierarchical, different asset profile and risk appetite to meet consumer preferences. This approach supports investor choice, whilst also responding to consumers’ expectation to understand a product’s positive environmental impact.

The FCA’s SDR regime is an important step forward for the industry. However, the regime must be supported by equally ambitious action and policy steers from UK Government to establish a sustainable financial system, as well as a committed, ambitious and stable whole-of-government approach to the transition. We look forward to the development of a UK Green Taxonomy, future adoption of ISSB standards, and outputs of the Transition Plan Taskforce (TPT) to be built into the FCA’s disclosure requirements.

While the FCA’s policy statement is welcomed, in an increasingly globalised economy, policy alignment across jurisdictions is an operational imperative. To ensure that the UK remains an attractive place for investment, we encourage the FCA to continue to work closely with other regulators across the globe to promote international coherent solutions. This collaboration should also enable the FCA to aim for interoperability, share best practices, and avoid market fragmentation.”

26/09/2023
Commenting on the release of the IEA’s Net Zero Roadmap report, Margarita Pirovska, Director of Policy at the PRI, said:

“The IEA’s report underlines what we already know – that globally, we are not on track with the aim of limiting warming to 1.5c. Climate risk is a macroeconomic and financial risk - and should we cross the 1.5c threshold, climate risks increase significantly, with substantial implications for investment performance. Every fraction of a degree matters if we are to maintain a liveable and manageable future.

PRI will continue to work to drive investor ambition and action on this vital issue. However, this challenge cannot be tackled by investors alone. It is essential that policymakers not only stay the course on net zero, but also act to create an enabling policy landscape which provides clear roadmaps on issues such as the equitable phase out of fossil fuels and the deployment at scale of renewables. Doing so will help to expand the universe of investable opportunities for private finance players and turbocharge the transition, which is in the best interests of investors and their beneficiaries.”

19/09/2023
Commenting on the launch of the US Treasury’s 9 Principles for net zero financing, David Atkin, CEO, Principles for Responsible Investment said:

“We welcome the US’s leadership in supporting investors to align their firms with net zero goals. As governments around the world are laying the path for investors to align their portfolios and activities with a net zero 2050 transition, the “9 Principles for Net Zero Finance” is an important marker in promoting responsible and sustainable investment practices. Investors have been hearing mixed messages in the US when it comes to responsible investing, but that does not change the fact that climate risk is financial risk. Investors have a fiduciary duty to ensure they are making smart investment decisions that consider ongoing impacts of the climate crisis on financial markets, our economy, and society as a whole. Investors must be able to take the actions they deem best to mitigate risks and tap into opportunities—this includes engaging with companies and collaborating where appropriate and permissible. This clarity from the Treasury will help investors and markets manage changes more efficiently and effectively.

“We all have a role to play in building a global financial system that is resilient and stable for investors today and into the future. The PRI is committed to working with the US Treasury to support its nine principles, and to contribute towards a clear roadmap for the financial industry, helping investors to manage the risks of climate change and accelerate the transition to a sustainable future.”

18/09/2023
Commenting on the launch of the TNFD’s final recommendations, David Atkin, CEO, Principles for Responsible Investment said:

“The release of the first version of the TNFD disclosure framework is a landmark moment for our industry. Building on the groundwork established by the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, the TNFD has produced a set of recommendations which will be integral in improving investor access to meaningful and consistent data. The financial and economic implications of biodiversity loss are vital topics for investors to take on and are fundamentally inseparable from their wider considerations on climate. As such, the PRI calls on investors and other economic actors to initiate their TNFD disclosure journeys, building on the learnings from voluntary adoption of the TCFD recommendations.”

14/09/2023
Commenting on the revised Renewable Energy Directive adopted by the European Parliament, PRI’s Head of EU Policy, Elise Attal said:

“The PRI welcomes the raised renewable energy targets for 2030 in the revised Renewable Energy Directive (REDIII). Industry, transport, and heating and cooling in buildings all need to shift to net-zero emission energy sources like solar and wind. Faster permitting will help accelerate the transition.

However, burning scarce and valuable wood and other primary biomass sources risks EU climate and nature targets. Forests are needed for biodiversity, for their carbon storage potential and other ecosystems services, and for high-value, low-quantity material use in the net-zero bioeconomy. The REDIII review in 2026 should strengthen binding sustainability criteria for Member States and exclude tax benefits or other support for using biomass for heating and power generation.”

31/07/2023
Commenting on the European Commission’s adoption of ESRS 1 and ESRS 2, PRI’s Head of EU Policy, Elise Attal said:

“PRI welcomes the publication of the first ESRS delegated act. This is an important steppingstone towards investors having access to the data they need to assess sustainability risks, opportunities and impacts.

The requirements on companies to explain why they have deemed climate change to be non-material, and hence not worth disclosing, and to explicitly state which datapoints deriving from the SFDR are non-material, are important to improve transparency of materiality assessments. Investors will be able to keep a watchful eye on investee reporting and will expect comprehensive disclosures based on accurate and science-based materiality assessments. In particular, given climate change is a growing and acute system-level risk, related indicators such as GHG emissions should be considered material and thus reported on by all companies subject to CSRD.

Nevertheless, the Commission’s decision to subject all issue-specific reporting to a materiality assessment may not guarantee investor’s access to the consistent and reliable information they urgently need to allocate capital in line with sustainability goals and meet mandatory reporting obligations, such as the SFDR. The European Commission should commit to making key climate disclosure indicators and environmental and social indicators relevant to SFDR mandatory to disclose in the first review of this delegated act in 2026. In the meantime, it should provide clear, comprehensive and robust guidance on materiality assessments, so that material sustainability information is not omitted by companies.”

13/07/2023
Commenting on the EU Parliament’s vote to start trilogue negotiationson the Nature Restoration Law, Rebecca Chapman, Head of Climate and Environment at the PRI, said:

“The EU Parliament’s vote to start trilogue negotiations on the Nature Restoration Law is an important signal which recognises the role of nature in addressing the twin challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss. Nature must be at the core of a European Green Deal that increases the EU’s resilience and aligns with its global climate and biodiversity commitments.

The EU Nature Restoration Law establishes a clear direction of travel and sets the groundwork for further advancement, particularly related to climate and biodiversity finance, which plays a central role at the heart of the issue. PRI supports a swift agreement between Council and Parliament to ratify the Law and will continue to work to ensure that the investor interests in nature and biodiversity are represented.”

05/07/2023
Commenting in response to the European Supervisory Authorities Joint consultation on the review of SFDR Delegated Regulation, PRI’s Head of EU Policy, Elise Attal said:

“New ESA proposals published in the consultation should improve transparency and comparability of EU sustainability-related financial products. This can help to address some of the usability issues investors face when reporting under SFDR. The revision of the RTS will need to be carefully sequenced with the European Commission’s upcoming “comprehensive assessment” of the regulation; as well as the recent ESMA proposal on fund names to ensure effective implementation of the changes.

The PRI supports the proposed expanded social PAI indicators and climate target-setting proposals. However, policymakers will need to maintain consistency with the final ESRS as adopted by the European Commission. This will ensure that investors have sufficient data to produce meaningful reports as per SFDR requirements. The Commission’s decision to make certain issue-specific disclosures subject to a materiality assessment under the current ESRS proposal could result in areas of impact. We may see a potential failure to report the information that investors urgently need to assess the sustainability risks, opportunities, and impacts of their investments and meet their requirements under SFDR.”

26/06/2023
Commenting in response to the FCA’s Consultation related to Primary Markets Effectiveness Review and proposed equity listing rule reforms, PRI’s Governance Manager, Betina Vaz Boni said:

“The PRI strongly opposes the FCA’s proposal to allow enhanced voting rights to be exercised on all matters without exception. Such a change could weaken existing corporate governance standards, expose institutional investors to undue risk and undermine the effectiveness of their stewardship activities. Our recommendations in light of this is to include maintaining the sunset period for DCSS at five years, without extending it to 10 years. Furthermore, in the interest of transparency, it is crucial to maintain the listing eligibility requirement for companies to have three years of audited historical financial information, representing at least 75% of their business. Mandatory independent shareholder approval of Related Party Transactions (RPTs) at or above the 5% threshold; mandatory independent shareholder approval of significant transactions at or above the 25% threshold and related requirements for shareholder circulars, should also be maintained.

Engagement and voting empower shareholders to improve returns, bolster governance, ensure accountability, address systemic risks, and achieve sustainability goals. The proposed changes by the FCA could curtail escalation opportunities and undermine the impact of stewardship efforts. They also contradict the FCA’s efforts to enhance investor stewardship and align companies’ governance, incentives, and competencies with sustainability considerations. The UK serves as a global reference on corporate governance, and relaxation of existing standards can have a ripple effect on corporate governance practices globally. In light of this, maintaining strong governance practices and preserving investor trust should be the priority, we urge the FCA to reconsider reforms that could undermine investor confidence in the UK market.”

16/06/2023
Commenting on the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) by the European Commission, René van Merrienboer, Director of Sustainable Systems at the Principles for Responsible Investment said:

“The PRI views the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) as a major step forward to providing investors with the decision-useful corporate sustainability-related information they need. We also welcome efforts to align the ESRS with global sustainability reporting standards, while accounting for investor data needs and European policy priorities – this will help to ensure comparable reporting across jurisdictions for investors.

There remain concerns, however, that the European Commission’s decision to make certain issue-specific disclosures subject to a materiality assessment and making it optional to explain why an issue covered by the ESRS is not material for a company. This could result in a potential failure to report the information that investors urgently need to assess the sustainability risks, opportunities and impacts of their investments, and to meet their own regulatory requirements such as those under the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR). Therefore, the final standards should maintain certain requirements as mandatory – including Scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas emissions, disclosures enabling investors to assess the credibility of corporate transition plans, and indicators needed to comply with SFDR and other investor reporting regulations.”

15/06/2023
Commenting on the adoption of the European Commission’s sustainable finance package, Elise Attal, Head of EU Policy at the Principles for Responsible Investment, said:

“PRI welcomes the European Commission’s sustainable finance package published 13 June 2023. In particular, we support the dual focus on (i) enhancing the usability and consistency of the sustainable finance framework and (ii) ensuring a transition towards a sustainable and inclusive financial system, economy and wider society.

PRI signatories need regulatory clarity and stability. Therefore, the Commission’s commitment to actively supporting implementation and ensuring that the tools and disclosures work in practice is an important signal. However, more needs to be done in future legislative reviews to achieve coherence and improve usability, while the global convergence of sustainable financial frameworks is also pursued. We welcome the Commission’s intention to intensify its efforts on this.

Beyond coherence and usability, we also support the Commission’s intention to prioritise facilitating transition finance. Given the urgency and magnitude of sustainability issues we face, sustainable finance needs to flow faster and bridge the large private investment gaps to achieve the objectives of the European Green Deal, the Paris Agreement, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This Commission’s last sustainable finance package before the end of its current mandate, linking to the Taxonomy and ESG ratings, should support this transition by improving the ability of investors to make informed decisions regarding the sustainability of their investments and helping companies to better understand their sustainability performance.”

14/06/2023
Rene Van Merrienboer, Director of Sustainable Systems at the PRI, comments:

“PRI welcomes the European Commission’s sustainable finance package published 13 June 2023. In particular, we support the dual focus on (i) enhancing the usability and consistency of the sustainable finance framework and (ii) ensuring a transition towards a sustainable and inclusive financial system, economy and wider society.”

“PRI signatories need regulatory clarity and stability. Therefore, the Commission’s commitment to actively supporting implementation and ensuring that the tools and disclosures work in practice is an important signal. However, more needs to be done in future legislative reviews to achieve coherence and improve usability, while the global convergence of sustainable financial frameworks is also pursued. We welcome the Commission’s intention to intensify its efforts on this.”

“Beyond coherence and usability, we also support the Commission’s intention to prioritise facilitating transition finance. Given the urgency and magnitude of sustainability issues we face, sustainable finance needs to flow faster and bridge the large private investment gaps to achieve the objectives of the European Green Deal, the Paris Agreement, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This Commission’s last sustainable finance package before the end of its current mandate, linking to the Taxonomy and ESG ratings, should support this transition by improving the ability of investors to make informed decisions regarding the sustainability of their investments and helping companies to better understand their sustainability performance.”

01/06/2023
Commenting on the adoption of the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDD) by the European Parliament, Elise Attal, Head of EU Policy at the Principles for Responsible Investment, said:

“PRI welcomes the outcome of the successful vote on the CSDD. The agreed text is an important step forward in creating a practical and effective directive which provides needed clarity in the EU’s sustainable finance policy architecture. As negotiations continue, it is important to maintain and, in some cases, further develop the Parliamentary text to ensure positive real-world impact. We welcome the risk-based approach to due diligence, in line with international standards, and the climate-related requirements. However, a greater acknowledgment of the investor approach to due diligence is needed, building on from the specific ART 8a voted in to encourage investor due diligence through stewardship, as well as clarification of the definition of value chain for the financial sector.”

09/05/2023
Commenting on the EU trilogue negotiations on the Nature Restoration Law, Elise Attal, Head of EU Policy at the Principles for Responsible Investment, said:

“The twin challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss can only be solved together. This is why nature needs to be a core component of a coherent, robust European Green Deal that increases the EU’s resilience and aligns with its global climate and biodiversity commitments. PRI strongly supports an ambitious EU nature restoration law, which enables the financial community to fulfil its fiduciary duties, mitigate nature-related investment risks, and direct capital flows to positive outcomes for nature and thriving ecosystems.”

02/05/2023
Commenting on the passing of Florida’s HB3 bill, Greg Hershman, Head of US Policy at the Principles for Responsible Investment, said:

“The bill signed today means more confusion and less freedom for investors. This legislation does not change the fact that investors find factors related to climate risks or corporate governance failures material to the value of their investments—it just undermines their freedom to consider those factors. The bill’s vague language related to ‘pecuniary’ factors simply creates more ambiguity when there’s a desire for greater clarity. We urge policymakers in states across the country, but particularly in states like Florida which face severe climate risk and its economic consequences, to hit pause, sit down with investors and let the public and private sectors work together for their shared beneficiaries – the American people.”

24/04/2023
Commenting on the G7 ministerial meeting of Labour and Employment Ministries in Okayama, Japan, Margarita Pirovska, Director of Policy at the PRI, said:

“We welcome the renewed focus of the G7 Labour and Employment Ministries on the triple transformation of labour markets, including demographic challenges, digital transformation and the transition to net zero, as well as their continued commitment to promoting decent work in global supply chains, in line with authoritative international frameworks.

However, little emphasis is placed on the need to align the industrial policy required to support jobs in the climate transition. Every ministerial meeting of the G7 forum in the coming weeks should consider the risks and consequences of the transition to net zero. Long-term financial returns and the health of the economy rely on the viability of environmental and social systems. For sustainable job and pension markets in G7 countries, this requires a whole-of-government approach, aligned with the goals of the Paris Agreement and the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, among others, to accelerate an effective investment in human capital for adequate upskilling and reskilling to ensure a just transition.

The 2023 Hiroshima Summit is an opportunity for G7 governments to align mainstream economic policy with global sustainability goals. We look forward to a final G7 Minister’s Communique following the May 2023 Hiroshima Summit which shows strong leadership from G7 governments towards a just economic transition to net zero.”

20/03/2023
Commenting on the release of the IPCC’s AR6 Synthesis Report, Edward Baker, Head of Climate Policy at the Principles for Responsible Investment, said:

“The IPCC has today issued its starkest call yet: we are running out of time. Today’s report - which should serve as an important informer for investors implementing a science-backed climate strategy - makes the need for urgency abundantly clear. The longer we delay the greater the risks and damages will be. Every fraction of a degree of warming and every year matters in efforts to avoid the most damaging impacts of climate change. Future market stability depends on choices taken now and in the near-term, and investors sit at the heart of the required response. We need deep, rapid, and sustained emissions reduction, a greater focus on adaptation, equitable solutions, scaled-up public and private financing, and international cooperation to manage climate risk effectively. Not only that, but the industry must be supported by complementary policy action, specifically by removing the barriers stymying the flow of public and private capital to climate solutions. We already have most of the solutions, but we need to go further and faster to see these implemented.”

07/03/2023
Commenting on the need for a substantive policy response to the rollback of corporate climate targets, Margarita Pirovska, Director of Policy at the PRI, said:

“The combination of high profits and a rollback of climate targets has given rise to some fundamental questions around the part played by fossil fuel companies in the transition to a sustainable world. This climbdown on targets, while deeply concerning and at odds with the urgency of action we are facing, is not a surprise. Shell, BP and others have built their business around the (currently) still profitable business of producing and selling oil. This highlights an enduring market failure and an insufficient global policy response to shift our financial systems to align profits with a liveable planet for generations to come.

While every government is bound to act on climate change as part of their commitment to the Paris Agreement, companies have no equivalent framework in place. This gap cannot be filled by investors alone – policymakers around the world need to work with industry, financial institutions, regulators and scientists to put in place transition measures that will deliver a 1.5C aligned global economic system, where investors can make responsible decisions with certainty around the long-term sustainability of their holdings. We need governments to step in with robust, clear and whole of economy strategy to ensure the transition to a net zero investment system.”

07/02/2023
Commenting on the creation of the UK government’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Department for Business and Trade, Eliette Riera, Head of UK Policy at the Principles for Responsible Investment, said:

“The creation of the new UK government Department for Energy Security and Net Zero can be a positive step towards ensuring these important issues are dealt with holistically and with the appropriate level of focus. Net zero as an issue cannot be addressed in a siloed manner - the current energy security and cost of living crises can be only tackled effectively alongside the pursuit of longer-term climate objectives, and not in isolation. Shifting financial flows to address key societal concerns such as climate change, loss of biodiversity, and inequality, is pivotal to ensuring long-term resilience, stability and prosperity. This requires foundational changes in public policy as a whole: net zero must be placed at the core of the UK government and reflected in all aspects of the new Departments created today.”

13/01/2023
Commenting on the release of the UK government’s report on net zero, Margarita Pirovska, Director of Policy at the PRI, said:

“The UK government’s report published today underlines clearly the benefits the UK stands to realise by moving towards a net zero economy. By acting on the areas the report outlines, numerous sectors – including food and beverages, renewable energy, and industries associated with improving household energy efficiency – stand to realise significant growth benefits and attract additional investment. A whole-of-economy, coordinated approach to transitioning to net zero is the most effective and efficient way to achieve the UK’s government’s goals. Investors themselves have made clear and consistent calls for the government move forward in the PMs ambition for the UK to become the world’s first net zero financial centre. We need the government to commit to an ambitious, clear and impactful roadmap for these opportunities to be realised, building on the work to date for the updated green finance strategy, and with renewed consultations with the financial sector.”  

19/12/2022
Commenting on the outcome of negotiations at COP15, Tamsin Ballard, Director of Climate at the PRI, said:

“The adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework marks a historic moment for the conservation and restoration of nature. Adopted by 196 countries under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, the agreement commits the world to take action by 2030 to halt and reverse biodiversity loss, and as part of this conserve at least 30% of land, freshwater and ocean globally, whilst respecting the rights of indigenous peoples. PRI particularly welcomes the call to align global financial flows with the goals and targets of the framework, the ask for large and transnational companies and financial institutions to assess and disclose their risks, dependencies and impacts on biodiversity and the intent to eliminate, phase out or reform harmful subsidies on biodiversity by 2030. However, to ensure successful implementation, it will now be essential that countries deliver on the Agreement, by translating it into national plans and policies and ensuring the efficient mobilisation of resources.”

19/12/2022
Commenting on the agreement reached by the EU institutions on the reform of the EU emissions trading scheme, Ed Baker, Head of Climate Policy at the Principles for Responsible Investment, said:

“We very much welcome the agreement that was reached on the reform of the EU emissions trading scheme (ETS). This is a major milestone in realising the ambition that the EU has set out under the Fit for 55 package. We encourage the EU to implement the ETS extension to the transport and buildings sector in a just and equitable manner, and to incentivise a swift decarbonisation of industry sectors that are currently still receiving free emission allowances until 2034. These steps will further contribute to reaching the EU’s 2030 emission targets and carbon neutrality by 2050. ”

09/11/2022
Commenting on the lunch of the US Energy Transition Plan, Ed Baker, Head of Climate Policy at the Principles for Responsible Investment, said:

“While the Energy Transition Accelerator represents a clear advance on previously mooted carbon offsetting initiatives, by directing capital flows to emerging markets, it is important to ensure that commitment to this initiative does not come at the expense of cutting real world emissions. Urgent action is needed to finance the climate transition, particularly for developing countries, but it is important to note that carbon offsetting of this nature should be employed alongside active efforts to cut emissions, rather than in lieu of such efforts.”

08/11/2022
Commenting on the launch of the UN High Level Expert Group’s report Integrity matters: net zero commitments by businesses, financial institutions, cities and regions, Shelagh Whitley, Chief Sustainability Officer at the Principles for Responsible Investment, said:

“The High Level Expert Group’s report is an important milestone for the sector and serves to provide an informative roadmap for future ambitious action. Particularly against the backdrop of COP27, it’s clear we need to see ambition maintained and increased in order to drive climate action further and faster. PRI echoes the call to forge closer partnerships between the public and private sectors, as well as the recommendation for the disclosure of actionable net zero transition plans. We remain committed to supporting ambitious investor action on climate through our work across the sector – including on multiple net zero initiatives which play a crucial role in driving additional aspiration.”

08/11/2022
Commenting on the launch of the UK Transition Plan Taskforce Disclosure Framework, Eliette Riera, Head of UK Policy at the PRI, said:

“The PRI welcomes the new proposals from the UK’s Transition Plan Taskforce. The proposed framework provides comparable information to support companies’ transition plans to reach net zero by 2050. For investors, this new proposal – alongside the recent release of the Sustainability Disclosure Requirement consultation by the FCA – is a positive step towards delivering on the pledge for the UK to be the world’s first net-zero aligned financial centre and provides needed clarity on companies’ proposed actions to the market. As the COP baton passes over to Egypt, the swift implementation of concrete policies to support short and medium-term climate targets remains an area where the UK government has an opportunity to demonstrate strong leadership.”

14/09/2022
Commenting on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s State of the Union (SOTEU) address, Nathan Fabian, Chief Responsible Investment Officer at PRI, says:

“Tackling the climate and energy crisis go hand in hand. Investors understand this and want to contribute to the urgent energy transition. The European Commission’s ambition to take emergency measures to stabilise energy markets and protect companies and households is critical. But these steps must not undermine efforts to agree on an ambitious Fit for 55 package: to accelerate the expansion of renewable energies, catalyse low-carbon innovation in EU companies, and generate sustainable investment opportunities for investors.”

08/08/2022
Commenting on the passage of the US Inflation Reduction Act through the Senate, Gregory Hershman, Head of US Policy at the Principles for Responsible Investment, comments:

“The Senate’s approval of $369 billion in climate-related funding is a much-needed jump start for efforts to combat climate change. The climate crisis is not a partisan agenda, it is a scientific reality which affects every community, every market, and every family in the United States. Retirement savings are already under threat from the climate impacts we’re seeing in our communities from drought, fires and record-breaking heat. To prevent the worst of this impact, we need coordinated efforts across federal, state and local governments – with this bill constituting a significant step in the right direction. Now, we must ensure investors are equipped to consider climate risk, and to act accordingly to protect the financial interests of working families across the country. The passage of this bill signifies that we have crossed a major hurdle and can now come together to support additional climate action that ensures a just, inclusive and orderly transition to net zero.”

29/07/2022
Commenting on the US Senate’s proposed bill on climate action, Gregory Hershman, Head of US Policy at the Principles for Responsible Investment, comments:

“Just weeks after a regressive ruling from the Supreme Court restricting EPA’s authority, this announcement is a notable step in the right direction. If signed into law, a third of a trillion dollars devoted to the energy transition is a major boost in the fight against climate change. Almost as important as the capital dedicated is the signal this sends to businesses, investors and the rest of the world - the transition is happening, and the United States is ready to do its part. We urge responsible investors to signal their support for these proposed climate measures and the successful conclusion of these negotiations. Now, we need to see further ambitious and supportive action taken within the private sector – among investors and indeed more widely – to facilitate an effective and equitable response to the climate crisis.”

06/07/2022
Commenting on the EU Parliament’s vote on the inclusion of gas and nuclear in the EU taxonomy, Elise Attal, Head of EU Policy at the Principles for Responsible Investment, comments:

“The European Parliament has rubber stamped the European Commission’s proposal to include gas and nuclear energy in a complementary section in the EU taxonomy. This will complicate its implementation. Investors will need to carefully review companies’ disclosures to ensure that taxonomy-aligned investments reflect criteria that are science-based. Failing to take this step could prompt fragmentation across the market and lead to potential greenwashing. The PRI will continue to work with its signatories and policy makers to shape taxonomy developments around the globe, aligned with science, to enable global convergence and to ensure disclosures in the EU are applicable and fit for purpose.”

01/07/2022
Commenting on the US Supreme Court’s ruling pertaining to the powers of the EPA to take action on climate change, Gregory Hershman, Head of US Policy at the Principles for Responsible Investment, comments:

“Today’s decision by the US Supreme Court is a regressive and harmful step which in practice prevents the federal government from implementing a national policy on climate change. Climate change is real and investors bound by fiduciary duties don’t have the ability to ignore it. Restricting the EPA’s efforts to address the issue limits our ability to approach climate change as a collective challenge and creates significant undue risk at a time when a just and orderly transition to a net zero economy has never been more vital. Investors recognize these threats and are stepping up to the plate to facilitate a systemic response. We urgently need a bipartisan political movement to support these investor efforts.”

For more information on PRI’s US policy work, click here

04/04/2022
Commenting on the IPCC’s Working Group III report on the mitigation of climate change, Shelagh Whitley, Chief Sustainability Officer at the Principles for Responsible Investment, comments:

“Today’s IPCC’s report underlines the urgency of the climate crisis. To avoid a dangerous increase in emissions, we must cease new investments in fossil fuels and increase financial flows towards assets which facilitate the low carbon transition. Encouragingly, we know from today’s report that we have the solutions needed to halve emissions by 2030. We also know that there is sufficient global capital and liquidity to finance these solutions. Now, we must see urgent action to finance the solutions needed.

“Investors have a leading role to play in this process. The IPCC report notes that investors are raising awareness of climate change as a financial risk. However, climate-related financial risks, whether from physical climate impacts or from a disorderly transition to a low carbon economy, are still greatly underestimated by parts of the industry.

“The PRI will continue to work with our signatories to support and increase their ambition on climate issues. In addition, we will continue our collaborative work to ensure a supportive policy landscape exists to best enable the vital shift to a net zero economy. The IPCC report shows that there is no time to waste – urgent action is needed to secure the future of our planet.”

04/03/2022
Commenting about the new resolution by the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-5) to end plastic pollution, Shelagh Whitley, Chief Sustainability Officer, PRI said:

”The PRI welcomes the adoption of a resolution at the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-5) to end plastic pollution and create an international legally binding agreement by 2024. Supported by 175 nations, it marks one of the most significant multi-lateral environmental deals since the Paris accord. Critically this new agreement will address the full lifecycle of plastic, considering its production and design, not just what happens to plastic waste. Plastic pollution is a global challenge and is a systemic issue for investors. Although policies and regulations on plastic use have risen dramatically in recent years, a new legally binding agreement has the potential to make a huge difference through harmonised goals and action from policymakers worldwide. The PRI has supported investors to understand risks and opportunities across the plastics value chain and address plastic pollution across the full plastic lifecycle. The PRI will continue to support investors to take action on this important and fast-moving issue, through its circular economy programme.”

28/02/2022
Commenting after the launch of the IPCC’s report, “Climate Change 2022: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability”, Sagarika Chatterjee, Director of Climate and Environment at the Principles for Responsible Investment, said:

“The IPCC has set alarm bells ringing loud and clear with this report. As a society, we are not acting rapidly enough to prevent the widespread impact of climate change, and we face a closing window to keep global warming to manageable levels. We stand at a cliff edge, facing the very real prospect of a world changed forever by the impact of man-made global warming. Billions of people will be affected by the damage climate change will do to our planet, it’s ecosystem, and our very way of life – unless we take drastic action now. International cooperation is at the core of this – a reality felt most keenly in the current geopolitical environment. Looking ahead, investors and governments need to act in concert to realise a global scheme of climate resilient development, which secures sustainable economic growth and preserves the future of our world.”