Responsible investing

Environmental, social and governance issues are key to the board’s investment approach.

Principles for Responsible Investment

The Municipal Pension Plan’s board and BCI are signatories to the United Nations–supported Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI).

Through this association, we are part of an international network of investors working together to better understand the investment implications of environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues and integrate ESG considerations into investment and ownership decisions.

Six principles for responsible investment

PRI is the world’s leading proponent of responsible investment. Its six principles were developed by investors for investors. The principles are voluntary and aspirational and outline the best possible actions for incorporating ESG issues into investment practice.

1. We will incorporate ESG issues into investment analysis and decision-making processes.
2. We will be active owners and incorporate ESG issues into our ownership policies and practices.
3. We will seek appropriate disclosure on ESG issues by the entities in which we invest.
4. We will promote acceptance and implementation of the principles within the investment industry.
5. We will work together to enhance our effectiveness in implementing the principles.
6. We will each report on our activities and progress towards implementing the principles.

Joint learning and action

The board co-founded the Western North America (WNA) PRI network, bringing together like-minded investors in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, California and Washington. The group provides opportunities to share information and best practices about ESG integration, discuss issues of regional concern and move the responsible investment conversation forward.

Following the success of the WNA PRI network, the UN PRI formed the Western North America Advisory Committee.