HKUST Institute for the Environment (IENV)’s Post

From the food we eat to the medicine we need, humans are heavily reliant on functioning ecosystems. This article by Vancity Investment Management's Rachel Beechinor highlights the role of shareholder engagement in preventing biodiversity loss. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gkqwb6EQ #ESG #Biodiversity #BiodiversityLoss #ShareholderEngagement

In light of Earth Day 2024, the BNP Paribas AM Environmental Strategies Group have written a think piece on biodiversity in listed equities to help answer common questions from clients. The team believe that biodiversity is greatly threatened by human activities and multiple billions of dollars need to be mobilized to reverse biodiversity loss. However, investors should be mindful of the challenges of investing in this space – please click on the link below to explore further. https://lnkd.in/ebYEQQac #environmentalstrategiesgroup #biodiversity #ecosystemrestoration Edward Lees Ulrik Fugmann

Neglecting biodiversity could adversely affect private equity. Data centers and investments consume a lot of energy, water, and land, so not addressing biodiversity could lead to financial setbacks and regulatory obstacles. Thankfully, a roadmap was created to reverse these negative effects. This roadmap would require firms to support biodiversity and conservation, as well as assess and disclose any potential risks. I think this is a start in the right direction. #PrivateEquity #PE #Investment #Finance

An opinion article on “How Hong Kong can help businesses better contribute to biodiversity protection” written by BEC CEO Mr Simon Ng and Senior Officer – Policy & Research Miss Katie Chan has recently been featured in SCMP. The article mentions BEC’s focus group that helped identify the current business priorities and barriers faced by firms when integrating biodiversity considerations into their business models and decision-making.   Read the article online: https://lnkd.in/g5PDNCR5   #BEC #business #sustainability #environment

🌿 Biodiversity - A strategic imperative for data centres 🌿    As the digital landscape rapidly expands amid growing environmental challenges, biodiversity preservation has become a pivotal focus for the development and operation of datacentres and their funders.    In this AlphaWeek article by Ramboll’s biodiversity experts Robert Nussey and Dr. Andrea Bueno, read how incorporating biodiversity into investment decisions is not just about complying with biodiversity-related regulations, but is a game-changer for improving data centre resilience, community engagement, and the development of innovative, nature-based solutions for operational efficiencies.    Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/eXJBDNJ7     #Biodiversity #Sustainability #DataCentres #SustainableDataCentres #Innovation #LetsCloseTheGap 

In recent months a group of progressive businesses have been meeting with the Business Environment Council to make recommendations for Hong Kong's next conservation masterplan (BSAP). Here are some of the main outcomes from those discussions #ConventionforBiologicalDiversity #BiodiversityStrategyActionPlan

Biodiversity loss is becoming inherently relevant for investors, businesses and the global economy when considering #riskmanagement and road mapping for a #sustainablefuture.   The rate at which #biodiversity is declining is increasingly becoming a systemic risk with the potential to materialise into considerable financial risks that investors will need to consider to protect clients and beneficiaries.   We are pleased to have contributed to the Principles for Responsible Investment's recent report on 'An introduction to responsible investment: Biodiversity of asset owners', showcasing how we integrate biodiversity considerations into our fund selections for our #timberland investments.   Read the report in full here: https://lnkd.in/ew9G9yfz   #timberland #biodiversity 

Curious to know how data centres can consider biodiversity from a more strategic standpoint? Have a read of this fantastic article written by my colleagues Robert Nussey and Dr Andrea Bueno!

The first pioneering Biodiversity Pilot Programme of Nefco - the Nordic Green Bank was a great success. 🌍🌿 I am thrilled to announce that we shall continue building the momentum with our portfolio companies in adopting #nature into their business models and strategy. With #COP16 underway, this initiative is a powerful example of how the private sector can approach nature-positivity with concrete actions. Together, we're building a sustainable future where business and #biodiversity thrive side by side. 🌱 #Biodiversity #SustainableBusiness #GreenEconomy #CorporateResponsibility #GreenFinance #Risk4Green

Biodiversity and ecosystems are top of mind, but investors still struggle with (1) lack of authentic thematic products, (2) defining what “ecosystems” and “biodiversity” means to them and (3) measurement of ecosystem and biodiversity impact. Ecosystems and biodiversity are important to society, for global growth where 50% of global GDP rely on nature and the $700bn annual financing gap. We need solutions, more of them and fast. Our take is to invest in companies that provide solutions to bridge the financing gap - going beyond words, tracking errors and vague policies. Here is why you should care...and why now! #bnpparibasassetmanagement #ecosystemrestoration #naturalcapital @alexandramatthews Edward Lees Somesh Batra#environmentalstrategiesgroup