"If last year was a landmark one for net zero commitments, this year was the one where the real work of implementation began.” Stephanie Pfeifer, IIGCC CEO and Faith Ward, IIGCC Chair and Chief Responsible Investment Officer at Brunel Pension Partnership.
As highlighted by the foreword of IIGCC’s 2022 Annual Report, the shifting focus towards climate resilience and adaptation along with mitigation efforts is arguably the key trend that has emerged on the global climate stage in 2022. This was demonstrated by its prevalence throughout COP27.
Addressing climate resilience and adaption has also been a key focus for IIGCC this year. Our latest Annual Report covers key milestones and progress from each of our programmes. We’ve worked closely with members this year to develop and expand tools and guidance to support investors in incorporating climate considerations into their portfolios, engaging with companies and advocating for a supportive policy environment.
We also reflect on IIGCC’s growth. We’ve come a long way in 20 years, from fewer than 10 members and 1 staff member to a team of 40 with 400 members representing almost $60 trillion in AUM in 2022.
Watch our short animation here and read our highlights below for a high level summary of our key milestones. The full 2022 Annual Report can be downloaded here.
Looking back on progress in 2022
Guiding: Investor Practices. Our team worked with members and the broader investment sector to better integrate climate risks and opportunities into their investment processes and decision making, exploring how to align portfolios with the goals of the Paris Agreement.
Key highlights include:
Engaging: Corporate Programme. The team has supported members in undertaking effective stewardship and active ownership of their investments with a focus on listed equity and corporate bonds, including as a founding and active network partner of the Climate Action 100+ initiative.
Key highlights include:
Influencing: Policy Programme. Helping to shape sustainable finance and climate policy, as well as regulation for key sectors of the economy at national, EU, and global levels. The team advocates for the implementation of policy frameworks that create an enabling environment for investors to decarbonise their portfolios and scale investment in climate solutions.
Key highlights include:
What’s next?
“It is fair to say that the word ‘unprecedented’ may have been diluted by soundbites in recent years, but for investors it has never been more accurate. The unique requirement of investors’ fiduciary responsibilities to their clients and beneficiaries necessitates a long-term view and international outlook, but it also creates a unique perspective on the climate crisis that has enormous value.” Stephanie Pfeifer and Faith Ward.
While there has been excellent progress across all programmes and initiatives over the last year, we are even more ambitious for the year ahead. We enter 2023 facing significant global headwinds and challenges. But this cannot distract or delay our goals. Our key priorities for next year will be to:
If you are interested in learning more, our full annual report can be downloaded here.