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The talks will aim to improve the impact on nature of the companies’ operations and risk management. Photo: unsplash.com
2 min read Last Updated : Jun 26 2024 | 9:36 AM IST
A group of more than 200 investors on Wednesday backed a plan to start talks with 60 companies over biodiversity, focusing on those active in countries with ecosystems at risk of forest loss and land degradation.
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The Spring initiative comes ahead of global talks in Colombia in October that aim to accelerate efforts to protect and restore nature as part of a Global Biodiversity framework deal reached in 2022.
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Launched by the Principles for Responsible Investment, a UN-supported network, the Spring process will focus on policy action impacting the planet’s most important biomes.
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“What we’re seeing today from investors is a recognition of the importance of nature when managing material investment risks, including deforestation, biodiversity loss, when aligned with their individual fiduciary duty,” said PRI Chief Executive David Atkin in a statement.
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All of the companies are major players in the food and agriculture, mineral mining, automotive, chemicals or banking sectors, and either have a large exposure to nature loss or a influential role in engaging policymakers.
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Among them are French cosmetics company L’Oreal, where talks will be led by CCLA Investment Management and Dorval Asset Management; and Japanese carmaker Toyota, where talks will be led by Nomura Asset Management.
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In a statement, Toyota said it had been working with stakeholders to promote conservation for many years, and would “continue to engage in open and constructive dialogue with investors and initiatives”.
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L’Oreal did not immediately reply to a request for comment.
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The talks will aim to improve the impact on nature of the companies’ operations and risk management, their supply chain management and political engagement, the PRI said.
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“Halting and reversing forest loss and land degradation is fundamental for a healthy climate, a sustainable future and long-term investment results,” said Emine Isciel, Head of Climate and Environment, Storebrand Asset Management.
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“We recognise the need for sound public policy to achieve this goal.”
(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
First Published: Jun 26 2024 | 9:35 AM IST

















