Burning fossil fuels is the largest contributor to climate change, responsible for over 75% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and nearly 90% of carbon dioxide emissions (1). To keep global warming within a 1.5°C increase by 2050, it's crucial to leave 59% of fossil gas untapped and reduce oil and gas production by 3% each year, starting immediately (2).
Integrating climate considerations into investment strategies, decisions, and practices can be a powerful step to mitigate climate change. The fossil fuel industry depends on large capital investments and continuous financial backing. By withdrawing this support, investors can make fossil fuel operations financially unviable, leading to decreased profitability and lower company valuations (3). This shift can encourage fossil fuel producers to change their operations to include more renewable energy sources or move aware from fossil fuels all together. It can also pave the way for the development of new, renewable-focused companies and industries.
In the last decade, there has been a significant push from large organizations owning and managing large amounts of investment, such as university endowments, religious institutions, and pension plans, to adopt responsible investment practices that integrate sustainability considerations. Many have prioritized climate in their investment decisions, reducing their exposure to fossil fuels (3).
Resources
- Shifting Canadian Pension Plans away from Fossil Fuel Investments
- Scaling impact investing in Canada through mobilizing asset owners
- Global Fossil Fuel Divestment Commitment Database
- 2023 Canadian Responsible Investment Trends Report
- Canadian Medical Association Divestment Commitments
- RNAO - Open Letter calling on HOOP to fund a just and stable future
- Sustainable Investments had secretly great year
If you have questions or are interested in learning more about transitioning away from fossil fuel investments, please contact Fiona Parascandalo, Research Coordinator at parascf@mcmaster.ca