Robeco announces ambition to reach net-zero emissions with its investments by 2050

Robeco announces ambition to reach net-zero emissions with its investments by 2050

4 december 2020

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Robeco announces that it has the ambition to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 across all its assets under management. The ambition to achieve net-zero GHG emissions follows a series of actions that Robeco announced earlier in its efforts to lower the carbon footprint of its investments.

In September, Robeco announced it would expand the scope of its fossil fuel exclusion policy to all funds, and earlier this year it hired a climate strategist and a climate data scientist. Robeco has also launched investment strategies to contribute to this ambition, such as a global green bond strategy. Furthermore, it will continue to focus heavily on engagement to combat climate change with its active ownership efforts towards companies that are falling behind in the transition.

Robeco will develop a roadmap and set interim targets to meet this ambition, in line with global efforts to limit global warming to 1.5°C. The targets will include reduction of portfolio emissions, but also investment in climate solutions such as green bonds and engagement with investee companies to drive emission reductions in the real economy and create real world impact. Robeco will also work together with and advise its clients on decarbonization goals that are in line with the ambition it has set for itself.

Gilbert Van Hassel, CEO Robeco: 'It is clear from scientific reports about climate change and carbon emissions that society has to act now. We cannot solve big problems such as climate change and the rapid decline of biodiversity on our own. But what we can do is set a clear example for the broader industry, work together and encourage other financial institutions such as asset managers to follow suit. We have set this ambition with the conviction that investing is not only about creating wealth but also about contributing to well-being.'

Victor Verberk, CIO Fixed Income and Sustainability at Robeco, continues: 'We aim to make our contribution to the Paris Agreement ambition, as climate change represents a significant threat to investors and the global economy. We acknowledge the responsibility of the investment industry towards climate change risks through the investment decisions that we make and the active dialogue we have with investee companies and other institutions. With this net-zero ambition we aim to contribute to a low-carbon economy.'

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