Responsible investment

As a global investor, we focus on achieving strong financial returns while contributing to a more sustainable and livable world. We increasingly align our portfolio with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals and companies working toward net zero by 2050, and expand our tangible impact through dedicated impact investments that deliver measurable benefits for people and the environment.

As an investor with a long-term horizon, PGGM holds shares in approximately 2700 listed companies. We actively use our influence as a shareholder to realise improvements in the area of ESG in order to contribute to the quality, sustainability and continuity of companies and markets in this way. We do this based on the vision that this ultimately contributes to a better financial and social and environmental return on the investments for our clients.

PGGM evaluates possible investments in terms of the expected risk-return ratio. ESG factors are also included in this risk analysis. ESG factors can influence financial results directly or indirectly, immediately or in the longer term. For example, property investments can be affected by climate change, such as rising sea levels, increasing risks of flooding or water shortages. Risks can never be entirely eliminated. Where identified risks negatively impact the future expected return, we can decide not to invest or to require a higher expected return. By integrating these risks and opportunities into the investment process, we end up with a better risk-weighted return.