Connect with us

Press Release

PSP Investments' 2023 Sustainable Investment Report outlines progress on top sustainability priorities

Published

2 years ago

on

[ad_1]

Highlights:

  • Achieved target to increase investments in transition assets to $7.5 billion ahead of 2026 schedule.
  • Reported Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG data for assets in-scope climbed from 47% in fiscal year 2022 to approximatively 54% in fiscal year 2023.
  • Further embedded our understanding of sustainability-related risks and opportunities into our culture, operations and investment practices to enhance our long-term sustainable investment approach.
  • Strengthened our approach to sustainability and climate by updating our Sustainable Investment Policy and Corporate Governance and Proxy Voting Principles.
  • Increased partnerships with institutional investors, industry associations and NGOs highlight our focus on engagement and collaboration.

MONTRÉAL, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — The Public Sector Pension Investment Board (PSP Investments) today published its annual Sustainable Investment Report, which outlines how the organization is striving to embed sustainable investing into its culture, operations and investment activities to continue to advance capabilities and address emerging risks and opportunities. Accompanying reporting includes PSP Investments’ climate-related financial disclosures based on the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).

PSP Logo

“In a year marked by challenges and uncertainty for investors, PSP Investments continued to deliver resilient long-term financial results and advance its capabilities to address emerging risks and opportunities,” said Deborah K. Orida, President and Chief Executive Officer at PSP Investments. “We aspire to develop additional foresight on the structural changes that will impact investments over the long term. This will include our evolving insights on climate, biodiversity, and the impact of social matters on our license to operate.”

The report outlines PSP Investments’ progress on the organization’s top sustainability priorities, including performance toward fiscal 2026 climate targets, the integration of material sustainability factors into decision-making and evolution of the approach. The climate-related financial disclosures showcase progress on metrics and targets; introducing our first-ever data quality assessment using the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF) methodology; and present the progress made on the approach and implementation of our Green Asset Taxonomy.

“As a pension investor, one of our core investment beliefs is that identifying, monitoring, integrating and capitalizing on material emerging factors contributes to long-term investment performance and to our ability to deliver on our mandate,” said Eduard van Gelderen, Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer at PSP Investments. “Our 2023 Sustainability Investment Report showcases the progress we are making in translating this belief into concrete actions and measurable outcomes.”

Fiscal 2023 highlights include:

Acting on climate change

  • Identified more eligible transition assets in our portfolio than anticipated when we first implemented our Green Asset Taxonomy, enabling us to reach our target of increasing investments in transition assets to $7.5 billion earlier than expected.
  • Expanded the scope of application of our Green Asset Taxonomy to include listed corporate bonds and applied more stringent criteria for green assets in public and private markets.
  • Published a Green Asset Taxonomy white paper in effort to increase transparency and promote market convergence.
  • Released our inaugural Green Bond Impact Report, which is linked to the issuance of our first green bond of $1 billion in fiscal 2022.

Continuing to expand our data capabilities

  • Rolled out an inaugural total fund sustainability-related data collection process, covering key performance indicators in the areas of climate change, diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I), business ethics, cybersecurity and data privacy, and human capital management.
  • Carried out an asset-level GHG data collection initiative with local operating portfolio company partners in six countries, covering over three million hectares of farmland and timberland across more than 400 individual properties.
  • Created sustainability due diligence tools to help our investment professionals integrate material sustainability-related considerations into their investment processes.

Advancing our sustainable investing approach

  • Updated our Sustainable Investment Policy and Corporate Governance and Proxy Voting Principles, further embedding our approach to sustainability and climate into our investment and active ownership activities and enhancing our expectations with respect to corporate governance and public disclosures on climate change risks and opportunities.
  • Introduced a hub-and-spoke model for integrating material sustainability factors into our investment process, providing our investment teams with tools, resources and training that will ultimately enable them to take on greater responsibility for this activity.
  • Leveraged our cross-asset class Climate Investing Workgroup to advance collaboration on climate investing opportunities across PSP Investments and build knowledge on key climate investing themes.

Continuing to create value through active ownership

  • Over the past fiscal year, PSP Investments has, where appropriate, engaged with 860 publicly listed companies whose securities it holds. This was done either directly with the company, with the assistance of a global stewardship service provider, or, where appropriate, in collaboration with like-minded investors or organizations such as the Canadian Coalition for Good Governance.
  • In fiscal year 2023 PSP Investments voted at 5,760 meetings on a total of 58,872 management and shareholder resolutions.

“PSP Investments has developed a holistic approach to sustainable investing, leveraging our capital, influence and capabilities to preserve and enhance long-term value,” said Herman Bril, Managing Director and Head of Sustainability and Climate Innovation at PSP Investments. “A strong focus on materiality enables us, as investors, to better understand the potential impact of sustainability-related factors on financial performance and to make informed investment decisions that support long-term value creation.”

To read PSP Investments’ 2023 Sustainable Investment and TCFD reports, visit our website.

About PSP Investments

The Public Sector Pension Investment Board (PSP Investments) is one of Canada’s largest pension investors with $243.7 billion of net assets under management as of March 31, 2023. It manages a diversified global portfolio composed of investments in capital markets, private equity, real estate, infrastructure, natural resources, and credit investments. Established in 1999, PSP Investments manages and invests amounts transferred to it by the Government of Canada for the pension plans of the federal Public Service, the Canadian Forces, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Reserve Force. Headquartered in Ottawa, PSP Investments has its principal business office in Montréal and offices in New York, London and Hong Kong. For more information, visit investpsp.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210508/PSP_Investments_PSP_Investments__2023_Sustainable_Investment_Rep.jpg

Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/psp-investments-2023-sustainable-investment-report-outlines-progress-on-top-sustainability-priorities-301927986.html



[ad_2]

Source link

Related Topics:
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Press Release

New Study Reveals Majority of Indians Prioritize Nutrition Over Taste, Surpassing Global Average

Published

10 months ago

on

May 31, 2024

By

[ad_1]


Based on a recent survey of urban Indian consumers: 


  • Nine out of 10 consumers are searching for protein-rich food compared to seven out of 10 global shoppers.


  • The top four qualities consumers look for when buying snacks are (1) natural, (2) heart-healthy, (3) protein-rich and (4) energy-source, all of which come before satisfying cravings.


  • Nuts have emerged as one of the most popular snacking choices, with 86% of Indian shoppers report having purchased them in a span of 6 months.


  • Urban Indians read nutrition labels more than the global average, reflecting a growing trend towards informed purchasing.


  • 69% of urban dwellers surveyed have the opinion that plant-based protein is just as good as meat-based protein, exceeding the global average of 55%.


 


Wonderful Pistachios, the world’s largest grower and processor of pistachios and distributor of California Pistachios in India, released today, World Nutrition Day, the findings of a new global study that sheds light on the snacking habits of urban Indians. The study, commissioned with Material, a leading global research consultancy, included 10 countries and over 12,400 respondents, revealed a new behavioural trend that urban Indian consumers prioritize nutrition over taste when it comes to snacking. This growing preference for healthy snacking emphasizes the importance of good nutrition for overall well-being.


 


For the India market specifically, the study delved into the snacking habits of 2,415 shoppers across six Indian cities, which represented a population of approximately 35.9 million consumers. Remarkably, a majority of urban Indians (58%) reported basing their food purchasing decisions on nutritional benefits more than taste, exceeding the global average of 52%. Delhi and Ahmedabad lead with over 60% of urban shoppers preferring nutrition in their food. Bengaluru and Chennai follow closely, indicating a nationwide shift towards smarter snacking preferences. In India, Millennials and Gen Z are leading the charge in health-conscious purchasing decisions, with more than 83% of consumers in these age groups reading nutritional labels before buying.


 


Indian consumers prioritize four key factors when shopping for nutritional snacks: natural (free of artificial colours and preservatives), heart-healthy, protein-rich, and provides energy. Nine out of 10 urban shoppers consciously seek protein-rich food options, compared to the global average of seven out of 10. The focus on nutrition has fueled the rise of nuts as a preferred snack choice, becoming essential to daily eating habits. The study found a staggering consumption of nuts, with 86% of Indian shoppers report purchasing them in a span of 6 months, compared to just 75% globally. With 6g of protein in per 28g serving, California Pistachios are a smart snack choice that provides benefits without sacrificing taste.


 


Shail Pancholi, Country Director, India, Wonderful Pistachios, commented on the study, saying, “Nuts were traditionally used as garnishes and consumed during festivals, but have now become a popular snack in India, indicating a notable shift in dietary habits. Pistachio consumption in India has doubled in the last six years, as consumer awareness of the nutritional benefits that pistachios offer has grown. Consumers are discovering that pistachios are naturally cholesterol-free, rich in plant-based protein and dietary fiber, and provide over 30 different vitamins and minerals.” 


 


Interestingly, the study found that nuts are the second most preferred snack among urban Indian consumers, with 64% of Baby Boomers and 59% of Gen Z prioritizing nutrition over taste when selecting food. This indicates a growing focus on health across generations, with Baby Boomers focusing on senior wellness and Gen Z reflecting the rise of mindful purchasing. Though on opposite ends of the age spectrum, these two generations take the lead in seeking protein-rich options, as well as preferring natural snacks. 


 


Mumbai tops most of the consideration sets when choosing a snack. Residents opt for natural ingredients (35% vs. the national average of 30%), heart-healthy options (33% vs. 30%), and protein (33% vs. 29%). Chennai residents look for energy-boosting snacks (31% vs. the national average of 29%). 


 


The fact that 69% of urban Indians surveyed have the opinion that that plant-based protein is just as good as meat-based protein reflects a positive shift towards varied dietary preferences. Pistachios are a good source of high-quality complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. A 28g serving of pistachios provides 6g of protein, which is 11% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) according to FSSAI.


 


The Wonderful Pistachios study unveils a compelling shift in Indian snacking habits. Nuts are evolving from festive treats to a daily snacking staple, fueled by a nationwide preference for more nutritious options. The trend transcends generations, resonating with Gen Z and Baby Boomers alike, underscoring the growing importance of mindful eating in urban India. As consumers increasingly seek natural, heart-healthy, protein-rich, and energy-boosting snacks, the future of Indian snacking appears to be firmly rooted in nutrition and well-being.

 


Wonderful Pistachios

Wonderful® Pistachios is the world’s largest grower and processor of pistachios, with a global presence in over 70 countries. As a vertically integrated operation, they are experts in every step of the process from tree to shelf, ensuring the highest-quality product every time. In tandem with its Grower Partners, Wonderful Pistachios harvests 125,000 sunny acres (50,000 hectares) of land in California that receive warm days and cool nights, which work in harmony with the rich, natural soils to create the perfect growing climate for high-quality pistachios. They ship 600 million pounds (204 million kg) of nuts worldwide from their advanced processing facilities to ensure the highest standards are met. When it comes to pistachios, Wonderful® Pistachios expertise is unmatched in scale and capacity, paired with warehouses and sales teams worldwide that are well-equipped to provide support at every step of the way. 

 


California Pistachios

California Pistachios are grown and distributed by The Wonderful Company, the world’s largest vertically integrated pistachio processor and marketer located in California’s Central Valley. California Pistachios are Non-GMO, providing a smart, healthy choice for consumers around the world. Sun-ripened in the moderate Mediterranean climate of California, these distinctively green nuts pack taste and contain antioxidants and over 30 different nutrients. California Pistachios in India are available under leading brands and private labels at retail outlets, grocery stores, and online platforms.


 


For more information about California Pistachios India, please visit www.b2b.wonderfulpistachios.com 


 



[ad_2]

Source link

Continue Reading

Press Release

Singapore Prepares Ahead to Leverage Artificial Intelligence for a Better Future

Published

10 months ago

on

May 31, 2024

By

[ad_1]

SINGAPORE, May 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Senior Minister of State for Communications and Information Tan Kiat How launched the Digital Enterprise Blueprint (DEB) at Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG) 2024 today. The Blueprint will enable SMEs to harness technology, optimise the way they work, and strengthen digital resilience and cybersecurity across the ecosystem. 50,000 SMEs are expected to benefit over the next five years through four key focus areas:

  1. Empower enterprises to be smarter by adopting AI-enabled solutions
  2. Enable enterprises to scale faster through cloud-based and integrated solutions
  3. Equip enterprises to be safer through improved cyber resilience
  4. Support enterprises to upskill workers to make full use of digital capabilities

Seven partners have come onboard to pledge their commitment, including Singapore Business Federation, Singapore Computer Society, SGTech, Amazon Web Services, Google, Microsoft and Salesforce.

In collaboration with IMDA and the TechSkills Accelerator for ITE and Polytechnics Alliance, SGTech is launching the Tech Apprenticeship Programme to expand the career pathways of graduates by providing access to industry apprenticeships that offer on-the-job training and development opportunities. Over the next two and a half years, SGTech aims to facilitate the placement of at least 300 apprentices who are fresh or mid-career professionals from polytechnic or ITE backgrounds, and drive the adoption of similar practices that promote more inclusive hiring and career agility.

IMDA and the Singapore Academy of Law (SAL) signed an MoU aimed at uplifting the legal sector’s productivity through the use of GenAI. As part of this partnership, GPT-Legal, a new large language model which is contextualised for Singapore’s legal sector, will be co-developed. The model will be integrated into SAL’s research platform LawNet, which is accessible by 75% of Singapore’s lawyers. SAL will also be penning an MoU with the National University of Singapore and AI Singapore to develop its AI capabilities and create a certification to recognise AI specialists in the legal profession.

Additionally, Tribe and Digital Industry Singapore announced a collaboration with NVIDIA to launch the Ignition AI Accelerator for AI startups to create and bring to market the next wave of advancement in AI solutions. This programme will nurture 15 high-potential startups, equipping them with well-rounded support covering business and technical needs. NVIDIA and Tribe will also collaborate with EnterpriseSG to offer qualified AI startups funding support through the Startup SG Tech scheme, and assist them through the IMDA Accreditation process. 

Singapore hosted the final meeting of the UN Secretary-General’s Artificial Intelligence Advisory Body (AIAB) from 28-29 May. As part of the agenda, Singapore facilitated an engagement session between AIAB and the Digital Forum of Small States (Digital FOSS). Digital FOSS Fellows exchanged views with AIAB members on the topic of AI governance, particularly on the implications and challenges faced by small states. Through such efforts, Singapore aims to promote a more inclusive approach towards shaping global AI and digital governance.

Contact:

[email protected]

 

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/singapore-prepares-ahead-to-leverage-artificial-intelligence-for-a-better-future-302160193.html



[ad_2]

Source link

Continue Reading

Press Release

One in Six Globally Concerned About Colorectal Cancer Screening Costs

Published

10 months ago

on

May 31, 2024

By

[ad_1]

SHENZHEN, China, May 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — By 2040, the burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) is projected to increase to 3.2 million new cases and 1.6 million deaths per year representing a 66% and 71% rise in new cases and deaths respectively relative to 2020.

To better address the global burden of CRC and reduce its impact, BGI Genomics has launched the second edition of its global CRC awareness report, covering 1,938 respondents from Brazil (306), China (367), Poland (300), Saudi Arabia (300), Thailand (362), and Uruguay (303):  

CRC Screening Gaps Vary Globally: Nearly half (49.3%) of global respondents have never undergone CRC screening, with the highest proportions in Saudi Arabia (62.0%) and Poland (61.0%).

Preference for Fecal Testing Over Colonoscopy: Although colonoscopies are more recognized (33.4%), fecal tests at healthcare facilities are preferred (31.8%), reflecting a trend towards non-invasive methods.

Cost and Fear are Determinants of Screening Choice: Fear of colonoscopy (18.2%) and screening costs (17.7%) are major barriers to CRC screening. Poland (24.7%) and Uruguay (21.0%) show the highest fear of colonoscopy, while Thailand (24.5%) and Brazil (20%) indicate the most concern about costs.

Medical Advice and Family History Drive CRC Screening: Doctor’s recommendations are a major driver for CRC screening (30.5% globally), with Uruguay showing the highest adherence (44.1%). Additionally, those with a family history of CRC are more proactive in screening (64.5%), compared to the general population (35.0%).

Prof. Varut Lohsiriwat from Mahidol University offers his insights to this report. He suggested: “The essence of effective cancer screening lies in the acceptance and adherence of the patient to the screening method. The best screening method is the one that the patient accepts and adheres to because that’s the method that will actually benefit them.”

Dr. Zhu Shida, BGI Genomics Deputy GM, notes: “At BGI Genomics, we focused our efforts on developing advanced molecular biology testing techniques to close the gap [between acceptance and accessibility]. The ultimate goal is to transform colorectal cancer from a life-threatening disease into a manageable condition through widespread, early screening and intervention.”

For more region-level comparisons, access the full BGI Genomics 2024 State of CRC Awareness Report.

All data involved in this report come from the results of an online survey project conducted by BGI Genomics. It only surveys awareness related to colorectal cancer and does not involve personally identifiable data.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1608027/BGI_Logo.jpg 

Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/one-in-six-globally-concerned-about-colorectal-cancer-screening-costs-302159170.html



[ad_2]

Source link

Continue Reading

Trending