Investing with positive energy. For a better world, today and tomorrow. In our view, that’s responsible investing: good for you, and good for the world. We believe that responsible investing can go hand in hand with a good pension. Therefore, in addition to the financially driven choices for our investments, we also consider ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) factors. 

What are these ESG factors?
Environmental - how does an organisation deal with, for example: 
• Reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions
• Sustainable use of raw materials
• Protection of biodiversity

Social - how does an organisation interact with people, both inside and outside the company:
• Working conditions and labour rights
• Diversity and inclusion
• Respect for human rights
• Community engagement

Governance - how is an organisation managed: 
• Transparency and accountability
• Honesty and integrity in decision-making
• Anti-corruption policy
• Shareholder rights

We incorporate ESG factors into investments in various ways. For example, we strive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions without compromising portfolio returns. And we do not invest in countries that perform very poorly in terms of governance, for example by systematically violating human rights.

We actively enter into dialogue with companies
As a committed shareholder, we enter into dialogue with companies to bring about positive change. We call this “engagement”. We also actively exercise our voting rights in their shareholder meeting, to bring about these changes. We believe that good governance (G) ultimately leads to better environmental (E) and social (S) performance. And that reduces sustainability risks and contributes to a more favourable risk-return profile. In other words: strong returns for your Shell pension. 

Which goals do we consider important?
In 2015, the United Nations member states unanimously agreed to put society and the planet on a sustainable course by 2030, presenting 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These are designed to build a better, greener and fairer world together. Our investment policy enables us to make a positive contribution to these goals.

Which goals do you consider (particularly) important?
In one of our participant surveys, we asked you which SDGs should receive the most attention. Always aligned with our goal of ensuring a good pension. The survey revealed four sustainable development goals that match our Shell identity:

Gender Equality The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that men and women have equal rights. However, regrettably, this equality is not yet realized in daily life. This SDG aims to put an end to that gender inequality. By 2030, there may no longer be any inequality between men and women in education, healthcare and at work. Furthermore, women and men should be equally represented in political and economic decision-making.

Affordable and Sustainable Energy By 2030, everyone should have access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy. Renewable energy is obtained from natural sources such as water, wind and sun. If we are to reach this goal in time, it is imperative for us to explore these energy sources more intensively. And with it, the technology we use to generate renewable energy. Ensuring that modern and sustainable energy is accessible in developing countries also requires better infrastructure and technological progress.

Sustainable Cities and Communities Inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities. Everyone should be able to live a good, healthy and sustainable life there. This requires a number of facilities, such as: good housing, healthy air, clean water, enough greenery and good access to public transport.

Climate Action Urgent action is needed to combat climate change and its impact. Global warming is already affecting our daily live and the income of millions of people. This will only get worse in the future.

What are the benefits?
Responsible investing, with clear goals and by entering into talks with companies, contributes to responsible business conduct and good employment practices. This goes hand in hand with our aim to achieve the best possible returns for your Shell pension. Read more about our sustainable results SNPS and SSPF.

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