Revision 2 - Oct 2023
SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENT POLICY
Sustainable investment is known as "investment in an economic activity that contributes to an environmental or social objective, provided that the investment does not significantly harm any environmental or social objective and that the investee companies follow good governance practices". APU recognizes the importance of sustainable investing as a powerful tool to address social and environmental challenges while generating long term financial returns. The purpose of this policy is to outline the University principles, strategies and guidelines that will govern university’s investment decisions and align them with its commitment to sustainability.
INVESTMENT GOALS:
To integrate environmental, social and governance factors into the investment decision making process to identify and manage risk, promote responsible practices while minimizing any negative impact on its investment returns.
RESPONSIBILITY:
The Investment Board (attendees from Research, University, Professional Services and Students) is accountable for ensuring the Policy is implemented. Implementation will be embedded in all new decisions/ operations and activities. All employees have a responsibility to ensure that the aims and objectives of the policy are met.
APU APPROACH:
- We will actively engage with companies through our investment managers to encourage best practice in environmental, social, and ethical standards.
- We will utilize the specialist knowledge of the investment managers will provide the University with the opportunity to make a positive contribution towards sustainability including alternative technologies in its investment portfolio.
- We will consider environmental and social issues when making an investment in a company, in the belief that socially sustainable companies are more likely to be successful in the long run.
- We will seek collaborations with other institutions, organizations, and industry experts to enhance our knowledge, share best practices ad foster innovation in sustainable investing.
- We will be periodically reviewed, updated, and evaluated to ensure its continued alignment with the university's sustainability goals and evolving best practices.
POLICY AIMS:
The University requires its staff, students, partners and suppliers to:
- Achieve attractive financial returns while considering the long-term risks and opportunities associated with sustainability factors.
- Invest in funds, companies and projects that contribute to the transitions to a more sustainable and inclusive economy, addressing challenges such as climate change, social inequality, and resource depletion.
- Diversify across various asset classes, sectors, and region to manage risk effectively and capture sustainable opportunities across different markets.
- Avoid direct investment in companies that have activities inconsistent with the educational and/or research objectives of the University.
- Raise awareness about sustainable investing among students, faculty staff and other stakeholders through educational program, seminars, and workshops.
- Report, benchmark and improve. Consideration is being given to how best to progress this in an effective and proportionate manner utilizing the expertise of academics within the University.
By implementing this sustainable investment policy, APU commits to integrating sustainability principles into investment practices, generating financial returns while addressing global challenges and contributing to the creation of more sustainable future.
TOGETHER Towards Sustainable Communities:
- Sustainability @ APU – click HERE
- APU Energy Conservation Program – click HERE
- APU Water Conservation Program – click HERE
- APU Recycling Program – click HERE
- APU Transportation Policy – click HERE
- APU Life on Land Conservation – click HERE
- APU Environment and Climate Change Policy – click HERE
- APU Sustainable Procurement Policy – click HERE
- APU Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Policy – click HERE
- Corporate Social Responsibility @ APU – click HERE
- ESG & Sustainability Events – Activities @ APU – click HERE