6. Nature's bottom line: the wealth of biodiversity

In this episode, Jodie Tapscott, Vice President and Director of Responsible Investing Strategy at AllianceBernstein, shares her inspiring journey in finance and how a National Geographic article changed her career trajectory toward sustainability. 

Delve into the systemic risk of widening social inequalities, explored through AllianceBernstein's strategy. Discover the three key areas guiding their investment strategies and the impact on economic, social, and political landscapes. Plus, get a surprising glimpse into Jodie's creative pursuit outside investment—writing.

The Global Pension Assets Study estimates global pension fund assets across 22 major pension markets (the P22). At the end of 2023 these markets had estimated pension assets of USD 55,688 bn, marking an anticipated 11% growth compared to 2022.

In our special bonus episode, we engage in conversation with Anastassia Johnson and Jessica Gao, researchers at the Thinking Ahead Institute. We discuss the study's significant figures, prevalent themes of the year, and anticipate challenges for the forthcoming year.

Resources mentioned:

• Global industry study: Global Pension Assets Study – 2024
• Press release: Global pension assets rebound past USD 55 trillion
• Article: The More Senior Your Job Title, the More You Need to Keep a Journal
• Research paper: Systemic risk | deepening our understanding
• Research paper: Systemic risk | adapting our practices

Join us for this captivating conversation with Daniel Hochman, Head of Sustainability Research at Bridgewater Associates, on the latest episode of Sustainability shapers. Explore Daniel's background and the vital role of decarbonisation for a sustainable future.

Uncover Bridgewater's research methodology as we dissect emissions distribution and pinpoint transformative sectors. We discuss the crucial need to seamlessly integrate sustainability into core business practices, fostering a comprehensive 360-degree understanding. Additionally, gain insights into the impact of science fiction in nurturing the ability to envision different possible futures.

Resources mentioned:

• Book series: Frank Herbert- Dune
• Book series: Isaac Asimov- Foundation

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In this episode of "Sustainability Shapers," Piet Klop, Head of Responsible Investment at PGGM, delves into the pressing concern of water depletion. Learn more about Piet himself including how he feels about the importance of connection to nature.

Discover how PGGM manages water risk in its portfolio, exploring metrics, engagement, and opportunities aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. Piet emphasises the need for the financial sector to address location-specific risks and reflects on the challenge of ecosystem degradation. Join us for an insightful conversation with this sustainability leader.

Resource mentioned:

• Tool: World Resources Institute- Aqueduct Water Risk Atlas
• Research paper: PGGM- Sustainable Development Investments (SDIs) Taxonomy & Guidance

Introducing Thinking Ahead Institute's new spin-off series "Sustainability shapers on systemic risk". This first episode features an insightful conversation with Leon Kamhi, Head of Responsibility at Federated Hermes.

Together, with host Isabella Martin, they unravel the complexities of systemic risks, focusing on climate change, social inequalities, and the concept of a just transition. Leon shares his wealth of experience, emphasising the vital role of investor stewardship in shaping a sustainable and equitable future.

Embark on a compelling journey through the breadth of research conducted by the Thinking Ahead Institute in the past year, transcending the realms of the investment industry.

Join Marisa Hall, the Head of the Institute, as she engages in insightful conversations with our researchers, offering a comprehensive overview of our 2023 research highlights. Delve into diverse topics, including the evolution of ESG, the future landscape of pensions, climate scenarios, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our exploration extends to pivotal subjects like stewardship, the investment organisation of tomorrow, systemic risk, and the crucial role of collaboration in shaping the trajectory of the industry.

Resources mentioned:

• Research agenda 2023
• EDI Data Survey Report
• Systemic risk | deepening our understanding

Biodiversity and nature have emerged as a prominent next focus for many investors, given how closely they are intertwined with the challenges of climate change.

In this episode, we speak with two experts: Thomas Viegas, Partnerships Lead at the TNFD and Liudmila Strakodonskaya, ESG Analyst at AXA Investment Managers. Together we explore the launch of the TNFD, why biodiversity loss is not only a risk but also an opportunity for investors, the adoption of new standards, the development of innovative investment products, and ways that investors can begin to collaborate. 

Resources mentioned:
-Report: WWF- Living Planet Report 2022
-Research: IPBES- Models of drivers of biodiversity and ecosystem change
-Book: Robin Wall Kimmerer- Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants 

The future of ESG is contested. Despite this, many believe that ESG is an unstoppable train that is picking up speed.  

In this episode we talk to Luba Nikulina, Chief Strategy Officer at IFM Investors, and Roger Urwin, Global Head of Investment Content at WTW and Co-founder of the Thinking Ahead Institute, about the current reality; what’s on the horizon; the importance of rightsizing your sustainability commitments and how all of this is relevant for investment organisations today. 

Resources mentioned: