A nature and biodiversity guide for institutional investors to identify material nature and biodiversity risks in portfolio companies, has been launched by investment management firm First Sentier Investors. The ‘Investors Can Assess Nature Now’ guide focuses on freshwater and forests, with it mapping a due diligence framework which includes the identification of sector exposures and understanding of material nature pressure areas and the prioritisation and assessments of companies, including metrics to look for and country-level assessment. The framework also has guidance on company engagement outlining how to interpret the data and questions to ask. Kate Turner, Global Head of Responsible Investment at First Sentier Investors, said: “There is growing global momentum to address nature and biodiversity risks, however the topic is still relatively new for many investors. While there is data challenge, knowing what tools are available and when to use them can also be a roadblock. The guide provides an outline of the available resources for assessments, including raising alternate ways to navigate data issues.”
