While targeting net zero by 2050, IFM Investors has set a 2030 interim emissions reduction target of 40 per cent of its existing infrastructure portfolio from 2019 levels.
The company said it will reach the ambitious goal by targeting zero coal exposure for its existing portfolio by 2030, and by continuing to invest in essential infrastructure assets in sectors such as transport, utilities and energy.
“To continue delivering on our purpose, which is to protect and grow the long-term retirement savings of working people, it’s vital that we have a plan to mitigate the risks of climate change,” said IFM Investors chief executive David Neal.
“We’re confident that the measures we are putting in place for our infrastructure portfolios are real, achievable and, we believe, in the best interests of our investors, their members and beneficiaries.”
Last year IFM established a taskforce to identify how each asset class – infrastructure, listed equities, debt, and private equity – would contribute to its overarching goal to target net zero by 2050.
The company confirmed it is undertaking further work on how its non-infrastructure asset classes will meet its net-zero commitments, and will form part of the company’s overarching climate change strategy to be released in coming months.
“We are making infrastructure investments today that our investors expect to hold for the long term. If these investments are to generate strong, long-term sustainable returns, we need to ensure that they continue to play an important role in society in a net zero economy,” said IFM Investors global head of infrastructure Kyle Mangini.
“We look forward to continuing to work closely with our investee companies as we embrace the energy transition together.”
Maja Garaca Djurdjevic
Maja's career in journalism spans well over a decade across finance, business and politics. Now an experienced editor and reporter across all elements of the financial services sector, prior to joining Momentum Media, Maja reported for several established news outlets in Southeast Europe, scrutinising key processes in post-conflict societies.
