In this New Year issue news, research and events from The London Accord and other organisations highlight how current social and environmental issues remain tomorrow’s key investment drivers. The London Accord adds value to the existing investment research process, working “towards better policies through shared investment research.”
SRI Briefings as the official newsletter of The London Accord provides news and analysis on these key issues and how they affect global financial services by monitoring market opportunities and research and profiling industry activities.
The London Accord (www.london-accord.co.uk) has created the first ‘open source’ resource for investors enabling these implications to be analysed and opportunities researched, as “today’s social and environmental issues are tomorrow’s key investment drivers.”
News
China renewable energy powers ahead
China’s renewable energy industry is growing fast according to London Accord supporters, Beijing-based Mint Research which provides market intelligence on investment and acquisition opportunities in the country’s renewable energy and clean tech sectors.
Workers’ rights unprotected in global supply chains
New research from ESG research provider EIRIS has identified breaches of the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) conventions on child labour, forced labour, trade union rights and equal opportunities in the supply chains of some of the world’s largest companies.
Research
Building for a green recovery
Globally governments are facing the effects of economic downturn, energy security and climate change but since January 2009 they have responded by allocating over US$470 billion in fiscal stimulus to climate change investment, leveraging a total of US$980 billion consistent with a low-carbon economy.
Assessing ESG risks
The current economic crisis has pushed both the role and influence of hidden risks embedded in investment portfolios to the forefront.
EUA outlook
Despite continuing weak macroeconomic outlook, the 2013 shortfall could support EUAs. Deutsche Bank has downgraded estimates for 2009-12, but Phase-3 forecasts remain unchanged.
Microfinance remains positive
Microfinance institutions (MFIs) will be affected by the global financial crisis. Private equity valuations for MFIs have varied widely, but publicly listed Low-Income Finance Institutions have outperformed traditional banks. Investors however should not value MFIs in the same way as with traditional banks.
Innovative financing for climate change
If Copenhagen is to succeed Kyoto it is essential policymakers send clear, strong signals of their commitment. A huge investment in clean technology is needed to prevent global warming, but given the scale of investment required plus deteriorating public finances in many countries it is only by leveraging private sector capital that the challenge can be met.
Investors discuss the credibility of sustainability and carbon reports
On 17 November 2009 Smart Sustainability (part of Carbon Smart Ltd.) hosted a workshop for investors to discuss the credibility of current sustainability and carbon reporting.
Events
01 February: Gresham College, London
Long Finance Conference
18 May: The London Accord, London
Climate Change – Structuring Cleantech Investment: London Accord Spring Conference and Reception
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