The impact of climate change
Climate change already impacts many aspects of our lives. And the physical changes to climate and weather patterns, as well as the changes to our economy and infrastructure as we reduce our carbon emissions, will impact how we, as a Fund, invest.
We’re committed to supporting the transition to Net Zero emissions economy by 2050 (in line with the international climate agreement), because we recognise this goal aligns to the long-term best financial interests of our members.
How we're addressing the risks
We’re addressing climate risk in a range of ways:
- We’re investing in assets and technologies that aid the transition to a lower carbon economy – things like renewable energy solutions.
- We’re undertaking portfolio-level analysis to understand how climate change may impact our current investments.
- We’re working with our investment managers to understand how climate-related risk can be considered when they’re making investment decisions.
- We’re engaging through our partners with the companies and assets we invest in, and with policy makers and regulators, to encourage greater understanding and action to address climate-related impacts.
Engaging on climate risk
Our current engagement on climate risk involves a range of activities, including:
- Climate Action 100+, a collaborative initiative that aims to encourage greater action and transparency amongst the world’s largest corporate greenhouse gas emitters.
- Investor Group on Climate Change (IGCC) who conduct research, provide education and engage with regulators and policy makers on behalf of Institutional Investors and Superannuation funds in Australia.
- Australian Council of Superannuation Investors (ACSI) who engage with companies in the ASX, and Responsible Engagement Overlay service via Columbia Threadneedle investments (REO) who engage with companies internationally, regarding the approach to climate-related risks and opportunities in their businesses.