Edentree Green Future Fund

SRI Style:

Environmental Style

SDR Labelling:

Sustainability Impact label

Product:

OEIC

Fund Region:

Global

Fund Asset Type:

Equity

Launch Date:

24/01/2022

Last Amended:

Sep 2024

Dialshifter ():

Fund Size:

£41.70m

(as at: 31/03/2024)

Total Screened Themed SRI Assets:

£1957.20m

Total Responsible Ownership Assets:

£1514.30m

Total Assets Under Management:

£3471.50m

ISIN:

GB00BP5FBP60, GB00BP5FBQ77

Objectives:

To provide long term capital growth over 5 years or more with an income by investing globally in companies which, at the core of their business, provide sustainable solutions to some of the world’s environmental challenges.

Sustainable, Responsible
&/or ESG Overview:

The Green Future fund aims to provide long term capital growth over 5 years or more with an income by investing globally in companies which, at the core of their business, provide sustainable solutions to some of the world’s environmental challenges. We look for companies that offer strong solutions attributes, coupled with “green at reasonable price” characteristics. Using our responsible & sustainable process, deploying both negative and positive screens, we look to identify companies that provide solutions that address long-term thematic global issues.

Primary fund last amended:

Sep 2024

Information directly from fund manager.

Fund Filters

Sustainability - General
Sustainability policy

Funds that have policies that consider (environmental and social) sustainability issues. Strategies vary but are likely to consider environmental issues like climate change, carbon emissions, biodiversity loss, resource management, environmental impacts; and social issues like equal opportunities, human rights, labour standards, diversity and adherence to internationally recognised codes. See fund information.

Sustainability focus

Find funds which substantially focus on sustainability issues

Sustainability theme or focus

Find funds where there is a significant emphasis on (environmental and social) sustainability. Funds with a 'sustainability theme' typically place more emphasis on the area than funds with a 'sustainability policy' - meaning that it is more likely to drive investment selection. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Sustainable transport policy or theme

Find funds that have documented policies or thematic investment approaches relating to investment in more sustainable, greener transport methods. These will typically set out a preference for companies that run, enable or support more sustainable methods of transport. See fund information for further detail.

Encourage more sustainable practices through stewardship

A core element of these funds aim to encourage higher sustainability standards across business practices through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement / voting activity

Circular economy theme

Fund has a theme or investment strand focused on the shift to a circular economy (where products are reused and recycled not incinerated or dumped). See eg https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/topics/circular-economy-introduction/overview

Environmental - General
Environmental policy

Funds that have policies which relate to environmental issues. These will typically set out the fund's stance on issues such as pollution, climate change, resource management, biodiversity loss, carbon emissions, plastics and/or additional environmental impacts. Strategies vary. See fund information for further information.

Limits exposure to carbon intensive industries

Funds that limit or 'reduce' their exposure to carbon intensive industries (ie sectors which are major contributors to climate change. Funds vary - some funds may be 'underweight' in this area which means they may have some investment in highly carbon intensive areas. Funds of this kind may choose companies they consider to be 'best in sector' and encourage ever higher standards. Strategies vary. See fund information for further details.

Environmental damage and pollution policy

Funds that have written policies explaining the approach they take when companies damage the environment or are significant polluters. Funds of this kind may work with companies to encourage higher standards, or exclude companies - sometimes dependent on the situation. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Resource efficiency policy or theme

Find funds that have a policy or theme that relates to managing natural resources more efficiently. Funds with this policy will be likely to favour companies that make (or enable the) more efficient use of resources - and either avoid or encourage change amongst companies with lower standards. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Favours cleaner, greener companies

Funds that aim to invest in companies with strong or market leading environmental policies and practices. Strategies vary - in particular the balance between 'financial' aspects and environmental benefits. Some may invest substantially in solutions or 'positive impact' companies - others may invest in more conventional companies providing certain environmental criteria are met. See fund information for further detail.

Waste management policy or theme

Find funds that have a written policy or theme on waste management - typically a view to encouraging higher levels of recycling and better efficiency / reducing waste.

Plastics policy

Funds that are reviewing or encouraging companies to manage down the overuse of plastics (particularly single use, non-recyclable plastics). These funds will typically aim to encourage the use of alternative materials, but are unlikely to exclude companies purely on the basis of their use of plastics. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Nature & Biodiversity
Biodiversity / nature policy

Find funds that have a written biodiversity policy or theme aimed at encouraging and improving environmental protection and safeguarding the natural world (sometimes referred to as the preservation or enhancement of 'natural capital'). See eg https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/science/climate-issues/biodiversity

Nature / biodiversity based solutions theme

A significant focus on investments that aim to protect, improve and, or restore natural habitat.

Nature / biodiversity focus

Fund has a significant focus or emphasis on investment in nature and biodiversity related opportunities

Nature / biodiversity protection policy

Fund has a nature or biodiversity policy which sets out their expectations of investee assets - typically meaning the fund will not invest in assets with poor standards. See fund information.

Deforestation / palm oil policy

Find funds that have policies in place designed to ensure they do not invest in companies that are significantly involved in deforestation. This typically relates to palm oil plantations where biodiversity loss is a major concern (as well as other issues). Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Responsible palm oil policy

Fund has a responsible palm oil policy which is likely to focus on the producers of palm oil and deforestation issues with a view to informing investment decisions (and / or engagement) to support and encourage high standards.

Sustainable fisheries policy

Fund has a sustainable fisheries policy that will inform where it can and can not invest

Water stewardship policy

Fund has a policy which sets out their expectations for how investee assets should manage water

Climate Change & Energy
Climate change / greenhouse gas emissions policy

Funds that have policies (documented strategies that explain their position on) climate change related issues such as greenhouse gas/carbon emissions, net zero, transitioning to lower carbon. Strategies vary. Read fund details for further information.

Coal, oil & / or gas majors excluded

Funds that avoid investing in major coal, oil and/or gas (extraction) companies. Funds vary: some may exclude all companies that extract oil. Others may have exposure to oil extraction via more diversified energy companies. See fund literature to confirm details.

Fracking and tar sands excluded

Funds that avoid companies involved in fracking and tar sands - which are widely regarded as controversial methods of oil and gas extraction. Strategies vary. See fund information for further information.

Arctic drilling exclusion

Funds that avoid companies that are involved in extracting oil from the Arctic regions. See fund literature for further details.

Fossil fuel reserves exclusion

Funds that avoid investing in companies with coal, oil and gas reserves. See fund information for further details.

Clean / renewable energy theme or focus

Find funds where investment in clean / renewable energy companies an other assets is central to their investment selection strategy. The proportion of the fund that is directly or indirectly invested in renewable energy varies between funds and over time. See fund information for further details.

Encourage transition to low carbon through stewardship activity

A core element of these funds will aim to encourage the transition to lower carbon activities through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement / voting activity

Energy efficiency theme

Fund funds that have an energy efficiency theme - typically meaning that a fund manager is focused on investing in organisations that manage - or help others to manage - energy use more carefully and less wastefully - and so reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Invests in clean energy / renewables

Funds that hold companies in the clean energy and renewable energy sectors (at the time research was supplied). Fund strategies vary, in particular the proportion of investment in these areas may vary significantly. Check fund literature for details.

Fossil fuel exploration exclusion - direct involvement

The fund manager excludes companies with direct involvement in fossil fuel exploration (eg coal, oil and gas companies)

Require net zero action plan from all/most companies

Find funds that require all, or almost all, of the companies it invests in to have a ‘net zero action plan’ - meaning that the companies they invest in have worked out how they will, over time, reduce their total carbon (and other greenhouse gas) emissions to nil.

Social / Employment
Social policy

Find funds that have policies which set out their approach to social issues (e.g. human rights, labour standards, equal opportunities, child labour and adherence to internationally recognised codes such as the UN Global Compact). Funds with social policies typically avoid companies with low standards or work to encourage higher standards. See fund information for detail.

Labour standards policy

Find funds that have a labour standards policy - which can be expected to mean that the fund will invest in / favour companies that have higher standards in this area - although fund strategies can vary significantly (as with all policy areas). See eg https://www.ilo.org/international-labour-standards

Favours companies with strong social policies

Find funds that invest in line with positive strategies that relate to 'people' issues - such as having strong human rights, labour standards and equal opportunities practices. Such funds are likely to invest in companies that have market leading standards with regard to employee and supplier practices. Read fund literature for further information.

Diversity, equality & inclusion Policy (fund level)

Find individual funds that have a written diversity policy – where the fund manager will aim to select companies with a carefully considered, sound approach to diversity. This should ideally cover a range of issues including gender, ethnicity, disability, beliefs, sexual orientation, etc.

Ethical Values Led Exclusions
Ethical policies

Find funds that have policies that set out their position on ethical or 'personal values' based issues. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Tobacco and related product manufacturers excluded

Companies are excluded if they are involved in any aspect of the production chain for tobacco products, including cigarettes, vaping, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco and cigars.

Armaments manufacturers avoided

Find funds that avoid companies that manufacture products intended specifically for military use. Fund strategies vary - particularly with regard to non-strategic military products. See fund literature for fund specific details.

Civilian firearms production exclusion

Find funds with a written civilian firearms exclusion policy - meaning that they will not invest in companies that make (or perhaps also sell) handguns made for non-military users.

Alcohol production excluded

Find funds that avoid investment in companies involved in the production of alcohol. Strategies vary; some funds allow a small proportion of profits to come from this area. See fund literature for further information.

Gambling avoidance policy

Find funds that avoid companies with significant involvement in the gambling industry. Some funds may allow a small proportion of profits to come from this area. See fund policy for further details.

Pornography avoidance policy

Find funds that avoid companies that derive significant income from pornography and related areas. Strategies vary. See fund details for further information.

Animal welfare policy

Find funds with policies that require specific animal welfare standards to be met. These may reference well-known welfare standards (3Rs - Replace, Reduce, Refine) or certification schemes. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Animal testing - excluded except if for medical purposes

Find funds that avoid companies that test their products on animals for purposes other than medical benefit (e.g. for cosmetics). Strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.

Human Rights
Human rights policy

Find funds that have policies relating to human rights issues. Funds of this kind typically require companies to demonstrate higher standards, although some fund managers work to encourage improvements. Investee companies are often judged against internationally agreed norms or standards. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Child labour exclusion

Find funds that have policies in place to ensure they do not invest in companies that employ children.

Oppressive regimes (not free or democratic) exclusion policy

Find funds with policies that exclude companies or other assets where regimes are not democratic, or where people may be oppressed. May use eg. Freedom House research. Strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.

Responsible supply chain policy or theme

Find funds that have policies or a theme that relates to the responsible management of supply chains. These may relate to employment issues, notably people employed by their suppliers, as well as the sourcing of materials and products. See fund literature for further information.

Modern slavery exclusion policy

The fund has a policy which excludes assets with involvement in Modern Slavery

Meeting Peoples' Basic Needs
Water / sanitation policy or theme

Find funds that have policies or themes that set out their position on investment in the water sector and/or sanitation. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Healthcare / medical theme

Healthcare and or medical theme or area of investment - the fund may have a single theme or many themes

Gilts & Sovereigns
Does not invest in sovereigns

Find funds that do not invest in / exclude 'sovereigns' - debt issued by governments. See eg https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/sovereign-debt.asp

Banking & Financials
Invests in banks

Find funds that include banks as part of their holdings / portfolio.

Predatory lending exclusion

Fund excludes financial services companies with widely criticised, aggressive lending practices where interest rates are typically very high, includes ‘doorstep lending’)

Invests in financial instruments issued by banks

Finds funds that include financial instruments (cash, derivatives and / or foreign exchange) issued by banks. See fund literature for further information as strategies vary.

Exclude insurers of major fossil fuel companies

Find funds that avoid investing in insurance companies that insure major fossil fuels companies – particularly coal, oil and gas. Strategies (eg definition of ‘major’) vary. See fund literature for further information.

Invests in insurers

Funds that do or may invest in insurance companies.

Governance & Management
Governance policy

Find fund options that have policies that relate to corporate governance issues such as board structure, executive remuneration, bribery and/or corporate corruption. These funds will typically avoid companies with poor practices. Strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.

Avoids companies with poor governance

Find funds that aim to avoid investing in companies with poor governance practices.(e.g. board structure, management practices etc.) Views may however vary on what counts as 'poor' practices - and funds may not immediately divest as they may prefer to work to encourage higher standards. See fund literature for further information.

UN sanctions exclusion

Exclude companies that are subject to United Nations sanctions. See eg https://main.un.org/securitycouncil/en/content/un-sc-consolidated-list

Anti-bribery and corruption policy

Find funds that have policies explaining how managers will respond to assets / companies that do not comply with relevant anti-bribery and anti-corruption standards or laws. Strategies vary; options include stewardship/ engagement and divestment - or a combination. See fund literature for further information.

Digital / cyber security policy

Find funds that have policies explaining how the fund managers take into account digital/cyber security related risks. Funds with cyber policies will typically favour companies with higher standards or that are helping to solve problems - but strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.

Encourage board diversity e.g. gender

Fund managers encourage the companies they invest in to have more diverse board structures (e.g. more women on boards)

Encourage TCFD alignment for banks & insurance companies

Find fund managers that encourage the banks and insurance companies they invest in to publish climate change related financial information - as set out by the Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures (with the aim of helping investors measure and respond to climate risk).

Encourage higher ESG standards through stewardship activity

A core element of these funds will aim to encourage higher ESG standards through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement /voting activity

Fund Governance
Employ external (fund) oversight or advisory committee

Find funds that have an external committee that helps steer or advise fund managers on SRI policy or strategy related issues. These people may be paid for their time but are not employees of the fund manager.

ESG integration strategy

Find funds that factor in 'environmental, social and governance' issues as part of their investment decision making process. A focus on 'ESG' typically means a fund is carrying out additional research to help reduce ESG related risks. It does not necessarily mean a focus on sustainability. Strategies vary. See fund literature.

ESG factors included in Assessment of Value (AoV) report

Environmental, social and governance issues are part of this fund’s reporting of their ‘value’ to clients. AoV reporting is a statutory requirement. Including ESG factors in its calculation is not.

Asset Size
Over 50% small / mid cap companies

Find funds where more than half of the funds' assets are invested in smaller or medium sized companies (i.e. below around £5 -10 billion).

Invests in small, mid and large cap companies / assets

Find a fund that invests in a combination of small, medium and larger (potentially multinational)companies.

Targeted Positive Investments
Invests >25% of fund in environmental/social solutions companies

Find funds that invest >25% of their capital towards companies where a major part of their business is focused on helping to address environmental or social challenges.

Invests >50% of fund in environmental/social solutions companies

Find funds that invest >50% of their capital in companies where a major part of their business is focused on helping to address environmental or social challenges.

Impact Methodologies
Aims to generate positive impacts (or 'outcomes')

Funds that aim to help or support the delivery of positive social or environmental impacts (or societal/real world outcomes) by investing in companies they regard as beneficial to people and / or the planet. Strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.

Positive environmental impact theme

Find funds that specifically set out to help deliver positive environmental impacts, benefits or 'real world' outcomes.

Positive social impact theme

Find funds that specifically state that they aim to deliver positive social (i.e. people related) impacts and/or outcomes.

Invests in environmental solutions companies

Find funds that direct investment towards companies where a major part of their business is about solving environmental challenges. e.g. companies helping to address climate change.

Invests in social solutions companies

Find funds that invest in companies where a major part of their business is specifically aimed at helping to address social challenges. e.g. companies helping to address poverty.

Invests in sustainability / ESG disruptors

Find funds that specifically set out to invest in companies that are regarded as 'disrupting' existing business practices - typically through the development of innovative (sustainability aware) products and/or practices.

Aim to deliver positive impacts through engagement

Fund aims to deliver positive environmental and or social impacts (real world benefits) through its engagement with investee assets

Over 50% in assets providing environmental or social ‘solutions’

50% of fund assets are regarded by the fund manager as being significantly focused on providing solutions to environmental or social challenges. Strategies vary.

How The Fund Works
Positive selection bias

Find funds that focus on finding and investing in companies with positive / beneficial attributes. This strategy can be applied in addition to exclusion criteria and engagement/stewardship activity.

Negative selection bias

Find funds where their main 'ethical approach' is to avoid companies by using negative screening criteria. Read fund literature for further information.

Strictly screened ethical fund

Find funds where their main approach is to apply positive or negative ethical, social and / or environmental screens. Strictly screened funds are likely to exclude more companies than other related fund options. See fund literature for further information.

Significant harm exclusion

Aims to avoid companies that do significant harm. This originates from the EU’s sustainable finance ‘DNSH’ (do no significant harm) work, which is not necessarily used by UK investors.

Combines norms based exclusions with other SRI criteria

Find funds that make significant use of internationally agreed 'norms' (e.g. United Nations Global Compact - UNGC - or the UN Sustainable Development Goals - SDGs) as part of their investment selection process alongside additional SRI criteria such as positive or negative stock selection policies and/or stewardship strategies.

Combines ESG strategy with other SRI criteria

Find funds that have an ESG strategy (which is typically focused on avoiding companies that pose environmental, social or governance related risks) with additional criteria such as positive and/or negative screens, themes and stewardship strategies.

Norms focus

Find funds that use internationally agreed standards, conventions and 'norms' to help direct where the fund can and cannot invest (e.g. the UN Global Compact, UN Sustainable Development Goals). Read fund literature for further information.

Focus on ESG risk mitigation

A major focus of these funds is the careful management of environmental, social and governance (ESG) related risks - typically by avoiding or being underweight in companies seen as posing major risks in these areas (i.e. not necessarily by using themes, exclusions etc).

SRI / ESG / Ethical policies explained on website

Find funds that have published explanations of their ethical, social and/or environmental policies online (i.e. fund decision making strategies/ buy/sell &/or asset management strategies).

Do not use stock / securities lending

This fund does not use stock lending for performance or risk purposes.

Unscreened Assets & Cash
Assets typically aligned to sustainability objectives 70 - 79%

The percentage of assets held within the fund that match the fund’s sustainability objectives and are not being held purely for risk management purposes, such as derivatives and cash equivalent assets.

Assets typically aligned to sustainability objectives 80 – 89%

The percentage of assets held within the fund that match the fund’s sustainability objectives and are not being held purely for risk management purposes, such as derivatives and cash equivalent assets.

All assets (except cash) meet published sustainability criteria

All assets held in the fund - except cash - meet the sustainability criteria published in fund documentation.

Intended Clients & Product Options
Intended for investors interested in sustainability

Finds funds designed to meet the needs of individual investors with an interest in sustainability issues.

Intended for clients interested in ethical issues

Find funds designed for clients who care about ethical and values-based issues, often alongside sustainability issues also.

Faith friendly

Find funds that have attributes that commonly suit the aims of investors of faith - although they may not be specifically marketed as being only for religious investors. Strategies vary (as do investor aims). Read fund literature for further information.

Available via an ISA (OEIC only)

Find funds that are available via a tax efficient ISA product wrapper.

Portfolio SRI / ESG options available (DFMs)

Only applicable for DFM’s & portfolio providers. Finds those that offer an SRI / ESG portfolio option

Multiple SRI / ESG portfolio options available (DFMs)

Only applicable for DFM’s & portfolio providers. Find service providers who offer multiple SRI / ESG portfolio options

Bespoke SRI / ESG portfolios available (DFMs)

Only applicable for DFM’s & portfolio providers. Find service providers who offer bespoke ('personalised') SRI / ESG portfolio options

Labels & Accreditations
SDR Labelled

Find funds that have chosen to adopt one of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) SDR labels. Please note: there are a range of reasons why potentially relevant funds may not use an SDR label eg. adopting a label may be work in progress, the manager may not yet be allowed to do so because of the product type, a manager may feel their fund is insufficiently aligned to SDR requirements. Read fund literature and / or our blogs for further information.

Fund Management Company Information

About The Business
Boutique / specialist fund management company

Find fund management companies that are smaller or specialise in particular areas - notably, ideally ESG related. Strategies vary.

Specialist positive impact fund management company

Find fund management companies (or subsidiaries) that specialise in - or focus entirely on - investing in assets that are helping to deliver positive environmental and / or social impacts.

Responsible ownership / stewardship policy or strategy (AFM company wide)

Finds fund management companies that have a published company wide stewardship, engagement and / or responsible ownership policy or strategy that covers all investments. Stewardship typically involves encouraging higher ESG standards through voting and dialogue.

ESG / SRI engagement (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that actively encourage higher 'environmental, social and governance' and/or 'sustainable and responsible investment' practices across investee companies - typically where the aim is to encourage positive change that is aligned with the best interests of investors. Strategies vary. See additional information and options.

Vote all* shares at AGMs / EGMs (AFM company wide)

Find fund managers that vote all* the shares they own at Annual General Meetings and Extraordinary General Meetings. A commitment to voting shares is a key indicator of 'responsible share ownership' demonstrating their support for or disagreement with management policy. (*situations can legitimately, occasionally occur where voting proves impossible, but in principle all shares should be voted.)

Responsible ownership / ESG a key differentiator (AFM company wide)

Find fund managers that consider responsible ownership and ESG to be a key differentiator for their business.

Sustainable property strategy (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that take sustainability criteria into account when selecting and/or managing all of their property / real estate investments.

Integrates ESG factors into all / most (AFM) fund research

Find fund management companies that consider environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues when deciding whether or not to invest in a company for all / almost all of their funds and other assets. This is increasingly seen as part of sound risk management.

In-house diversity improvement programme (AFM company wide)

Finds organisations / fund managers that have an in-house (company wide) diversity improvement programme - meaning that they are working to ensure that within their own businesses they employ people from diverse backgrounds - often typically focused on ethnicity and/or sex.

Diversity, equality & inclusion engagement policy (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that encourage the companies they invest in to have strong diversity, race, gender and other equality policies across all assets held, not simply screened or themed SRI/ESG funds. (ie Asset Management company wide).

Invests in newly listed companies (AFM company wide)

This asset management company invests in companies which have recently listed on a stock exchange (which is important as it can help grow new businesses).

Invests in new sustainability linked bond issuances (AFM company wide)

Asset management company has investments in bonds designed to meet sustainability requirements - however these assets may not be 'ringfenced' for this purpose. See fund manager website for details.

Offer structured intermediary training on sustainable investment

Fund management entity offers unstructured intermediary training on sustainable investment (ie for financial advisers and wealth managers)

Offer unstructured intermediary sustainable investment training

Fund management entity offers unstructured intermediary training on sustainable investment (ie for financial advisers and wealth managers)

Collaborations & Affiliations
PRI signatory

Find fund management companies that have signed up to the UN backed 'Principles of Responsible Investment'.

UKSIF member

Find fund management companies that are members of UKSIF - the UK Sustainable Investment and Finance association

Fund EcoMarket partner

Find fund management companies that have partnered with Fund EcoMarket - meaning that they are helping to improve access to information on sustainable and responsible investment by paying an annual fee to us which enables us to publish information for free. Partner funds are listed ahead of other funds and have their logos displayed.

Resources
In-house responsible ownership / voting expertise

Find fund management companies that employ people to steer and support fund managers in voting shares at company AGM's and EGMs in ways that are consistent with encouraging higher ESG/sustainability standards.

Employ specialist ESG / SRI / sustainability researchers

Find a fund management company that directly employs specialist ESG/SRI/sustainability researchers or analysts. This allows asset managers to discuss environmental, social and governance risks and opportunities directly with companies.

Use specialist ESG / SRI / sustainability research companies

Find fund management companies that makes use of expert external research companies. This can help deliver specialist expertise and means resources are pooled with other investors.

ESG specialists on all investment desks (AFM company wide)

Finds organisations / fund managers that have one or more ESG/sustainability experts on all investment teams or 'desks' (all asset types)

Accreditations
PRI A+ rated (AFM company wide)

Finds organisations / fund managers that have an A+ PRI rating - meaning they are highly rated according to the 'Principles of Responsible Investment'

UK Stewardship Code signatory (AFM company wide)

Find fund managers that are signatories to the FRC UK Stewardship Code, which sets out a framework for constructive investor / investee relations where fund managers are encouraged to behave like responsible, typically longer term 'company owners'.

Engagement Approach
Regularly lead collaborative ESG initiatives (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that regularly initiate or run industry wide (collaborative) investor projects aimed at raising environmental, social and governance standards amongst investee companies.

Encourage responsible corporate taxation (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that are working with the companies they invest in to encourage more responsible corporate taxation.

Engaging on climate change issues

Fund manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy that is focused on addressing climate change with investee assets.

Engaging to reduce plastics pollution / waste

Asset manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy with involves encouraging investee asset to reduce plastic waste and pollution.

Engaging on biodiversity / nature issues

The asset manager has a responsible ownership / stewardship strategy that focuses on biodiversity and nature issues relating to the assets they invest the aim of which will be to reduce harm and or deliver improvement. Strategies vary. https://tnfd.global

Engaging to encourage a Just Transition

Asset manager has a responsible ownership / stewardship strategy which means they are working to encourage the shift to more sustainable business practices in ways that respect and are sensitive to social issues and the impact change has on people effected by the changes that are taking place. https://www.transitionpathwayinitiative.org/ https://transitiontaskforce.net/

Engaging on human rights issues

Asset manager has responsible ownership / stewardship strategy in place which aims to address human rights issues in investee companies (and potentially their suppliers) with the aim of raising standards

Engaging on labour / employment issues

Asset manager has responsible ownership / stewardship strategy in place that aims to improve labour standards for the benefit of employees in investee companies (and potentially their suppliers)

Engaging on diversity, equality and / or inclusion issues

Asset management company has a stewardship strategy in place which involves working to raise diversity, equality and inclusion standards across investee assets

Engaging to stop modern slavery

working with the assets they hold to help stamp out modern slavery - where direct or indirect company employees are exploited for business benefits.

Engaging on governance issues

Fund managers have stewardship strategies in place that focus on improving governance standards across investee assets

Engaging on responsible supply chain issues

Has a stewardship / responsible ownership strategy that encourages responsible supply chain - ie the managers will discuss environmental, social and governance issues with investee companies with the aim of raising standards

Engaging on the responsible use of AI

Working to address sustainability, ESG and related concerns around artificial intelligence.

Company Wide Exclusions
Controversial weapons avoidance policy (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies (not funds) that avoid investment in 'controversial weapons' across all of their funds and other investment vehicles.

Tobacco avoidance policy (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that avoid investment in tobacco (manufacturing) companies across all their assets.

Fossil fuel exclusion policy (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that avoid investment in fossil fuel companies (e.g. coal, oil and gas) across all of their funds. (and/ or other assets.)

Review(ing) carbon / fossil fuel exposure for all funds (AFM company wide)

Find funds / fund managers that are reviewing, or have reviewed, their exposure to carbon intensive industries including (but not only) mining, oil and gas companies. (Typically with reference to climate change.)

Coal divestment policy (AFM company wide)

This asset manager has a strategy in place that will lead them to exit direct investments in the coal mining industry. Managers ability to do this may depend on the geographic regions in which they invest.

Coal exclusion policy (group wide coal mining exclusion policy)

This asset manager excludes direct investment in the coal mining industry. Managers ability to do this may depend on the geographic regions in which they invest.

Do not invest in companies with fossil fuel reserves

Asset management company excludes companies with fossil fuel reserves across all assets/funds

Climate & Net Zero Transition
Publish 'CEO owned' Climate Risk policy (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that have published a Climate Risk policy or statement that is signed / owned by their Chief Executive.

Encourage carbon / greenhouse gas reduction (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that are working with the companies they invest in to encourage reductions in carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions.

In-house carbon / GHG reduction policy (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that are working to reduce their own (fund management company) carbon/greenhouse gas emissions.

Committed to SBTi / Science Based Targets Initiative

See https://sciencebasedtargets.org/

Transparency
Publish responsible ownership / stewardship report (AFM company wide)

Find fund management companies that publish a report detailing their responsible investment ownership - also known as 'Stewardship' - activity.

Full SRI / responsible ownership policy information on company website

Find companies that publish information about their sustainable and responsible investment strategies on their company website.

Full SRI / responsible ownership policy information available on request

Find fund management companies that will supply information about their sustainable and responsible investment activity on request.

Just Transition policy on website (AFM company wide)

This asset management company has published information on their website about the delivery of a 'just transition' - ie the delivery of the necessary shift to a sustainable future that takes full account of social implications - how change effects people. See eg https://www.unepfi.org/social-issues/just-transition/ or LSE Grantham

Publish full voting record (AFM company wide)

Fund management companies that publish a full record of how they vote their shares at AGMs (annual general meetings) and EGMs (extraordinary general meetings). Voting strategies have an important role to play encouraging higher environmental, social and governance standards.

Paris Alignment plan publicly available (AFM company wide)

This asset management company has published a plan that explains how they will align to the climate change commitments made at the Paris Climate Talks, COP21.

Dialshifter statement

Find fund management companies that have supplied Dialshifter information. See Dialshifter tab within record for more information.

Sustainable, Responsible &/or ESG Policy:

The core philosophy for the EdenTree Green Future is that the true value of the planet’s natural capital is inappropriately priced within traditional market conventions, leading to the widespread abuse of natural resources and excessive pollution. As society becomes increasingly aligned with the protection of our natural capital, we believe that those business models that are designed to increase the resource efficiency of the global economy (both in the solutions they provide and the operations they oversee) will be able to deliver greater levels of demand and higher returns on capital over the long-term.


The strategy targets capital appreciation by investing in those companies developing solutions to tackle the world’s environmental challenges, while also supporting the acceleration towards a more sustainable future through our engagement and stewardship practices.


The strategy focuses on the following investment verticals which we call the Green Future Framework:

  • Alternative Energy
  • Energy Efficiency
  • Circular Economy
  • Environmental Services
  • Water Management
  • Future Mobility
  • Regenerative Agriculture


Under each theme of the Green Future Framework we have defined a series of solutions which define the investment focus of the fund from which we are seeking investments.


We seek investments which are the core of what they do provide solutions within Green Future framework. We may also seek investments which are undergoing a rapid transition towards solutions.
The Fund will avoid investment where there is material involvement (10% or more) in alcohol and tobacco production, conventional weapon production, gambling, publication of violent or explicit materials, intensive farming, fossil fuel exploration and production and high interest (subprime) lending.


The Fund will avoid companies with material operations in oppressive regimes. The Fund has a proprietary means of assessing oppressive regime risk, and operates this on a case by case basis. It will also seek to avoid companies that have exposure to the manufacture of unconventional weapons where these are defined as nuclear, biological and chemical weapons, land mines and cluster bombs. Finally, the Fund will seek to avoid companies using animals to test cosmetic, beauty or household products. It will invest in pharmaceuticals companies that may conduct animal testing but will encourage the adoption of the 3R principles: refine, reduce, and replace.

 

 

 

Process:

At EdenTree, we believe that detailed fundamental analysis and proprietary research are prerequisites for successful stock selection within global equity markets. Therefore, as a team, we spend a considerable amount of time discussing and modelling transformative sustainability trends, consuming academic and industry research, as well as engaging with companies and key business stakeholders. This mix of top-down and bottom-up proprietary analysis has led to the construction of a Green Future Investment Universe, consisting of those companies that are making an active contribution to the multi-trillion-dollar environmental solutions value chain.


The Green Future Investment Universe is central to the strategy’s investment process and ensures that the investment process is multi-thematic, dynamic, disciplined, and repeatable. The investment process has been shaped over 20 years, through multiple economic and innovation cycles.


The investment process is considered through 4 stages: Sourcing, evaluation, investment analysis and revaluation.


Sourcing

EdenTree has developed a global thematic investment opportunities database of over 1,500 companies globally. This represents the core source from which investment ideas can be generated. The database is constantly evolving as new environmental solutions emerge, new companies list on public markets, or indeed as existing listed entities transition into environmental solution providers.


Evaluating

From the Green Future database the investment managers seek to evaluate an active pool of around 200 companies. The evaluation process considers 4 principle pivots. Namely; seeking investments around a specific solution (Thematic), investments which have a specific innovation of technology pathway (Innovation), investments which have strong fundamental returns or potential returns (Fundamental) and finally appreciating wider market dynamics and source potential under-appreciated investments (Market Dynamics).

 

Investment Analysis

We hold to the belief that long-term returns are more likely to be achieved by investing responsibly in sustainable businesses and therefore seek to find companies that generate returns without future detriment to the environment and society. In order to achieve this, we consider both the financial and responsible research in detail to form a comprehensive view of companies, their risks and opportunities. This includes considered analysis of investment solution alignment, the ability of the company to sustain and enhance a competitive advantage over the long-term, financial analysis of the investment (notably the ability of investments to generate sustainable returns alongside capital structure), and a comprehensive assessment of the management team (notably their skill, track record and commitment to a sustainable future). All with the goal of identifying the best opportunities to deliver long-term returns for our clients.


The fund style is that of blended approach, seeking to incorporate companies within a lifecycle analysis framework namely.

  • Pioneering – earlier stage but high disruptive potential through their products of service.
  • Inflecting – rapidly deployment of proven technologies responding to market growth.
  • Sustaining – mature technologies with established market positions with the capacity to generate sustainable positive cashflows and commonly return cash to shareholders.


The outcome of the investment process ensures multiple thematic exposures, across a variety of market capitalisations and global distribution of investment. Exposures are determined by our investment selection over asset allocation.

 

Resources, Affiliations & Corporate Strategies:

EdenTree’s Head of Responsible Investment Carlota Esguevillas reports into EdenTree’s Chief Investment Officer Charlie Thomas, who is part of EdenTree’s Executive Committee. The Executive Committee and ultimately the EdenTree Investment Management Board have responsibility for oversight for EdenTree’s ESG Processes.

The RI Team is part of the wider Investment Team, and provides the specialist in-house resource for ESG screening, engagement, voting and thought leadership. The Team sit together in our London office and there is ongoing interaction between them, whether they are discussing a company screen, upcoming webinar, potential expert briefing for our website or evolving regulatory requirements.

  • Carlota Esguevillas, Head of Responsible Investment – Carlota is responsible for leading the Team. Prior to being promoted at the start of this year, Carlota led EdenTree’s work on social topics such as human rights, diversity and workforce issues.
  • Amelia Gaston, Senior Responsible Investment Analyst – Amelia leads EdenTree’s work environment and climate change issues.
  • Hayley Grafton, Senior Responsible Investment Analyst – Hayley leads on the firm's approach to corporate governance and proxy voting.
  • Cordelia Dower-Tylee, Responsible Investment Analyst – Cordelia leads EdenTree’s environmental work, with an emphasis on water, and supports the company’s work on governance.


Our basic ESG risk analysis is provided by our data providers, ISS ESG & Sustainalytics, who flag potential violations of global norms. In addition, if any of our holdings breach our screens we are immediately notified by our data providers and can then review the breach with the ultimate sanction of divestment if we deem it necessary. Furthermore, periodically stocks and instruments held within our funds are reviewed by the RI Team to ensure that they remain suitable, whilst the team monitors any negative news flow, engaging with companies to provide clarity and assess the risk level involved.

Our RI team conducts additional research and analysis from publicly available materials including:

  • Company literature (annual reports, websites and sustainability reports)
  • Industry or trade body publications and websites
  • NGO reports and websites e.g. Banktrack
  • Government and academic research
  • Investor benchmark initiatives


Edentree plays a leading and longstanding role across multiple organisations. They are signatories, members and subscribers to a number of industry partnerships and initiatives including:


Signatory organisations

  • Principles of Responsible Investing (PRI);
  • UK Sustainable Investment & Finance Association (UKSIF);
  • Global Impact Investing Network;
  • UK Stewardship Code FRC;
  • CDP (formerly Carbon Disclosure Project);
  • Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change (IIGCC);
  • Farm Animal Investment Risk & Return (FAIRR);
  • Financing a Just Transition Alliance;
  • World Benchmarking Alliance;
  • Workforce Disclosure Initiative (WDI);
  • Access to Nutrition Initiative;
  • Access to Medicine Initiative;
  • Investor Initiative on Hazardous Chemicals


Collaborative engagement initiatives

  • PRI Advance Human Rights - Human Rights;
  • IIGCC Banks Working Group - Climate Change;
  • Climate Action 100+ - Climate Change;
  • Nature Action 100+ - Biodiversity;
  • Investor Action Group on AMR - Water & AMR;Valuing Water Initiative - Water;
  • Investor Initiative on Hazardous Chemicals - Water & Chemicals;
  • Microfibre pollution initiative - Plastics Pollution;
  • 30% Club Investor Group - Diversity;
  • WBA – Digital Inclusion Group - Digital rights;
  • Good Work Coalition - Good work;
  • Votes Against Slavery - Modern slavery


EdenTree believes these partnerships signals their commitment to having an active and positive role in the investment community. Collaborations are critical to driving change, whilst learning from expert sources allows them to provide more for their clients.

EdenTree also sits on UKSIF’s Analyst Committee, which advises on the development of UKSIF’s knowledge sharing programme on evolving sustainability issues. They also sit on the PRI’s Circular Economy Reference Group, which explores how investors can better integrate the principles of a circular economy into investment processes. EdenTree’s CIO, Charlie Thomas, sits on the IA’s Sustainability and Responsible Investment Committee.

Responsible Investment Panel Review

In addition to the review provided by the RI Team, this Team itself has external oversight from an independent Advisory Panel of eight senior industry practitioners with expertise in the field of responsible investment.

The EdenTree Responsible Investment Advisory Panel exists to provide advisory oversight of our ESG processes. They may advise and inform but not mandate a course of action. For assurance purposes, we view the Panel as providing external independent assurance of our process and RI activity. Our Group Internal Audit function also plays a role in reviewing and certifying key internal controls, risk functions and other stewardship processes such as proxy voting. The Executive Committee and ultimately the EdenTree Investment Management Board have responsibility for oversight.

The Panel is made up of a number of industry experts, including:

  • Will Oulton – Panel Chair, (former Head of RI at First Sentier)
  • Mike Barry – Former Director of Sustainable Business
  • Verity Mitchell - Independent Consultant, (former Director of Utilities for HSBC Global Research)
  • Julian Parrott – Client Member, Ethical Futures
  • Sue Round – Chair of EdenTree Investment Management ACD Board and former CEO
  • Annette Ferguson – Independent Consultant (former Head of Sustainable Business at Vodafone
  • Paul Simpson OBE – Strategic Advisor (former CEO of CDP

 

 

Dialshifter

This fund is helping to ‘shift the dial from brown to green’ by…

The fund invests wholly in the equities of green and environmental solutions businesses that are making a material difference towards the transition to a low carbon economy. The fund allocates capital to businesses operating in one or more of seven core investment themes, which we call the Green Future framework and focuses on business addressing global environmental challenges. These themes include alternative energy, energy efficiency, circular economy, environmental services, water management, future mobility and regenerative agriculture.

The fund is also subject to our responsibility criteria which has six different considerations including the environment and climate.

 

 

Our organisation is helping to support the Paris Climate Agreement and the Race to Net Zero by…

We have close to 100% of assets (98%) managed in an ethical and sustainable way. We carefully scrutinize whether emissions reductions targets are science based, and all funds are currently in-line with the Paris Agreement target of no more than 1.5 degrees of warming.

Our parent the Benefact Group aims to deliver a zero direct impact (Scope I & II) by 2023, and net zero (Scope III) by 2040. EdenTree will support the Group in its ambitions, whilst developing its own thinking to support investing clients. As a Group subsidiary we form part of the Group’s overall Net Zero ambition.

 

SDR Labelling: Sustainability Impact label

Key Performance Indicators:

EdenTree has set out its position on SDR on the website. See link below:

Fund Name SRI Style SDR Labelling Product Region Asset Type Launch Date Last Amended

Edentree Green Future Fund

Environmental Style Sustainability Impact label OEIC Global Equity 24/01/2022 Sep 2024

Objectives

To provide long term capital growth over 5 years or more with an income by investing globally in companies which, at the core of their business, provide sustainable solutions to some of the world’s environmental challenges.

Fund Size: £41.70m

(as at: 31/03/2024)

Total Screened Themed SRI Assets: £1957.20m

(as at: 31/03/2024)

Total Responsible Ownership Assets: £1514.30m

(as at: 31/03/2024)

Total Assets Under Management: £3471.50m

(as at: 31/03/2024)

ISIN: GB00BP5FBP60, GB00BP5FBQ77

Contact Us: adam.kelly@edentreeim.com

Sustainable, Responsible &/or ESG Overview

The Green Future fund aims to provide long term capital growth over 5 years or more with an income by investing globally in companies which, at the core of their business, provide sustainable solutions to some of the world’s environmental challenges. We look for companies that offer strong solutions attributes, coupled with “green at reasonable price” characteristics. Using our responsible & sustainable process, deploying both negative and positive screens, we look to identify companies that provide solutions that address long-term thematic global issues.

Primary fund last amended: Sep 2024

Information received directly from Fund Manager

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Fund Filters

Sustainability - General
Sustainability policy

Funds that have policies that consider (environmental and social) sustainability issues. Strategies vary but are likely to consider environmental issues like climate change, carbon emissions, biodiversity loss, resource management, environmental impacts; and social issues like equal opportunities, human rights, labour standards, diversity and adherence to internationally recognised codes. See fund information.

Sustainability focus

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Sustainability theme or focus

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Sustainable transport policy or theme

Find funds that have documented policies or thematic investment approaches relating to investment in more sustainable, greener transport methods. These will typically set out a preference for companies that run, enable or support more sustainable methods of transport. See fund information for further detail.

Encourage more sustainable practices through stewardship

A core element of these funds aim to encourage higher sustainability standards across business practices through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement / voting activity

Circular economy theme

Fund has a theme or investment strand focused on the shift to a circular economy (where products are reused and recycled not incinerated or dumped). See eg https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/topics/circular-economy-introduction/overview

Environmental - General
Environmental policy

Funds that have policies which relate to environmental issues. These will typically set out the fund's stance on issues such as pollution, climate change, resource management, biodiversity loss, carbon emissions, plastics and/or additional environmental impacts. Strategies vary. See fund information for further information.

Limits exposure to carbon intensive industries

Funds that limit or 'reduce' their exposure to carbon intensive industries (ie sectors which are major contributors to climate change. Funds vary - some funds may be 'underweight' in this area which means they may have some investment in highly carbon intensive areas. Funds of this kind may choose companies they consider to be 'best in sector' and encourage ever higher standards. Strategies vary. See fund information for further details.

Environmental damage and pollution policy

Funds that have written policies explaining the approach they take when companies damage the environment or are significant polluters. Funds of this kind may work with companies to encourage higher standards, or exclude companies - sometimes dependent on the situation. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Resource efficiency policy or theme

Find funds that have a policy or theme that relates to managing natural resources more efficiently. Funds with this policy will be likely to favour companies that make (or enable the) more efficient use of resources - and either avoid or encourage change amongst companies with lower standards. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Favours cleaner, greener companies

Funds that aim to invest in companies with strong or market leading environmental policies and practices. Strategies vary - in particular the balance between 'financial' aspects and environmental benefits. Some may invest substantially in solutions or 'positive impact' companies - others may invest in more conventional companies providing certain environmental criteria are met. See fund information for further detail.

Waste management policy or theme

Find funds that have a written policy or theme on waste management - typically a view to encouraging higher levels of recycling and better efficiency / reducing waste.

Plastics policy

Funds that are reviewing or encouraging companies to manage down the overuse of plastics (particularly single use, non-recyclable plastics). These funds will typically aim to encourage the use of alternative materials, but are unlikely to exclude companies purely on the basis of their use of plastics. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Nature & Biodiversity
Biodiversity / nature policy

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Nature / biodiversity based solutions theme

A significant focus on investments that aim to protect, improve and, or restore natural habitat.

Nature / biodiversity focus

Fund has a significant focus or emphasis on investment in nature and biodiversity related opportunities

Nature / biodiversity protection policy

Fund has a nature or biodiversity policy which sets out their expectations of investee assets - typically meaning the fund will not invest in assets with poor standards. See fund information.

Deforestation / palm oil policy

Find funds that have policies in place designed to ensure they do not invest in companies that are significantly involved in deforestation. This typically relates to palm oil plantations where biodiversity loss is a major concern (as well as other issues). Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Responsible palm oil policy

Fund has a responsible palm oil policy which is likely to focus on the producers of palm oil and deforestation issues with a view to informing investment decisions (and / or engagement) to support and encourage high standards.

Sustainable fisheries policy

Fund has a sustainable fisheries policy that will inform where it can and can not invest

Water stewardship policy

Fund has a policy which sets out their expectations for how investee assets should manage water

Climate Change & Energy
Climate change / greenhouse gas emissions policy

Funds that have policies (documented strategies that explain their position on) climate change related issues such as greenhouse gas/carbon emissions, net zero, transitioning to lower carbon. Strategies vary. Read fund details for further information.

Coal, oil & / or gas majors excluded

Funds that avoid investing in major coal, oil and/or gas (extraction) companies. Funds vary: some may exclude all companies that extract oil. Others may have exposure to oil extraction via more diversified energy companies. See fund literature to confirm details.

Fracking and tar sands excluded

Funds that avoid companies involved in fracking and tar sands - which are widely regarded as controversial methods of oil and gas extraction. Strategies vary. See fund information for further information.

Arctic drilling exclusion

Funds that avoid companies that are involved in extracting oil from the Arctic regions. See fund literature for further details.

Fossil fuel reserves exclusion

Funds that avoid investing in companies with coal, oil and gas reserves. See fund information for further details.

Clean / renewable energy theme or focus

Find funds where investment in clean / renewable energy companies an other assets is central to their investment selection strategy. The proportion of the fund that is directly or indirectly invested in renewable energy varies between funds and over time. See fund information for further details.

Encourage transition to low carbon through stewardship activity

A core element of these funds will aim to encourage the transition to lower carbon activities through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement / voting activity

Energy efficiency theme

Fund funds that have an energy efficiency theme - typically meaning that a fund manager is focused on investing in organisations that manage - or help others to manage - energy use more carefully and less wastefully - and so reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Invests in clean energy / renewables

Funds that hold companies in the clean energy and renewable energy sectors (at the time research was supplied). Fund strategies vary, in particular the proportion of investment in these areas may vary significantly. Check fund literature for details.

Fossil fuel exploration exclusion - direct involvement

The fund manager excludes companies with direct involvement in fossil fuel exploration (eg coal, oil and gas companies)

Require net zero action plan from all/most companies

Find funds that require all, or almost all, of the companies it invests in to have a ‘net zero action plan’ - meaning that the companies they invest in have worked out how they will, over time, reduce their total carbon (and other greenhouse gas) emissions to nil.

Social / Employment
Social policy

Find funds that have policies which set out their approach to social issues (e.g. human rights, labour standards, equal opportunities, child labour and adherence to internationally recognised codes such as the UN Global Compact). Funds with social policies typically avoid companies with low standards or work to encourage higher standards. See fund information for detail.

Labour standards policy

Find funds that have a labour standards policy - which can be expected to mean that the fund will invest in / favour companies that have higher standards in this area - although fund strategies can vary significantly (as with all policy areas). See eg https://www.ilo.org/international-labour-standards

Favours companies with strong social policies

Find funds that invest in line with positive strategies that relate to 'people' issues - such as having strong human rights, labour standards and equal opportunities practices. Such funds are likely to invest in companies that have market leading standards with regard to employee and supplier practices. Read fund literature for further information.

Diversity, equality & inclusion Policy (fund level)

Find individual funds that have a written diversity policy – where the fund manager will aim to select companies with a carefully considered, sound approach to diversity. This should ideally cover a range of issues including gender, ethnicity, disability, beliefs, sexual orientation, etc.

Ethical Values Led Exclusions
Ethical policies

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Tobacco and related product manufacturers excluded

Companies are excluded if they are involved in any aspect of the production chain for tobacco products, including cigarettes, vaping, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco and cigars.

Armaments manufacturers avoided

Find funds that avoid companies that manufacture products intended specifically for military use. Fund strategies vary - particularly with regard to non-strategic military products. See fund literature for fund specific details.

Civilian firearms production exclusion

Find funds with a written civilian firearms exclusion policy - meaning that they will not invest in companies that make (or perhaps also sell) handguns made for non-military users.

Alcohol production excluded

Find funds that avoid investment in companies involved in the production of alcohol. Strategies vary; some funds allow a small proportion of profits to come from this area. See fund literature for further information.

Gambling avoidance policy

Find funds that avoid companies with significant involvement in the gambling industry. Some funds may allow a small proportion of profits to come from this area. See fund policy for further details.

Pornography avoidance policy

Find funds that avoid companies that derive significant income from pornography and related areas. Strategies vary. See fund details for further information.

Animal welfare policy

Find funds with policies that require specific animal welfare standards to be met. These may reference well-known welfare standards (3Rs - Replace, Reduce, Refine) or certification schemes. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Animal testing - excluded except if for medical purposes

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Human Rights
Human rights policy

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Child labour exclusion

Find funds that have policies in place to ensure they do not invest in companies that employ children.

Oppressive regimes (not free or democratic) exclusion policy

Find funds with policies that exclude companies or other assets where regimes are not democratic, or where people may be oppressed. May use eg. Freedom House research. Strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.

Responsible supply chain policy or theme

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Modern slavery exclusion policy

The fund has a policy which excludes assets with involvement in Modern Slavery

Meeting Peoples' Basic Needs
Water / sanitation policy or theme

Find funds that have policies or themes that set out their position on investment in the water sector and/or sanitation. Strategies vary. See fund information for further detail.

Healthcare / medical theme

Healthcare and or medical theme or area of investment - the fund may have a single theme or many themes

Gilts & Sovereigns
Does not invest in sovereigns

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Banking & Financials
Invests in banks

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Predatory lending exclusion

Fund excludes financial services companies with widely criticised, aggressive lending practices where interest rates are typically very high, includes ‘doorstep lending’)

Invests in financial instruments issued by banks

Finds funds that include financial instruments (cash, derivatives and / or foreign exchange) issued by banks. See fund literature for further information as strategies vary.

Exclude insurers of major fossil fuel companies

Find funds that avoid investing in insurance companies that insure major fossil fuels companies – particularly coal, oil and gas. Strategies (eg definition of ‘major’) vary. See fund literature for further information.

Invests in insurers

Funds that do or may invest in insurance companies.

Governance & Management
Governance policy

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Avoids companies with poor governance

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UN sanctions exclusion

Exclude companies that are subject to United Nations sanctions. See eg https://main.un.org/securitycouncil/en/content/un-sc-consolidated-list

Anti-bribery and corruption policy

Find funds that have policies explaining how managers will respond to assets / companies that do not comply with relevant anti-bribery and anti-corruption standards or laws. Strategies vary; options include stewardship/ engagement and divestment - or a combination. See fund literature for further information.

Digital / cyber security policy

Find funds that have policies explaining how the fund managers take into account digital/cyber security related risks. Funds with cyber policies will typically favour companies with higher standards or that are helping to solve problems - but strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.

Encourage board diversity e.g. gender

Fund managers encourage the companies they invest in to have more diverse board structures (e.g. more women on boards)

Encourage TCFD alignment for banks & insurance companies

Find fund managers that encourage the banks and insurance companies they invest in to publish climate change related financial information - as set out by the Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures (with the aim of helping investors measure and respond to climate risk).

Encourage higher ESG standards through stewardship activity

A core element of these funds will aim to encourage higher ESG standards through responsible ownership / stewardship / engagement /voting activity

Fund Governance
Employ external (fund) oversight or advisory committee

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ESG integration strategy

Find funds that factor in 'environmental, social and governance' issues as part of their investment decision making process. A focus on 'ESG' typically means a fund is carrying out additional research to help reduce ESG related risks. It does not necessarily mean a focus on sustainability. Strategies vary. See fund literature.

ESG factors included in Assessment of Value (AoV) report

Environmental, social and governance issues are part of this fund’s reporting of their ‘value’ to clients. AoV reporting is a statutory requirement. Including ESG factors in its calculation is not.

Asset Size
Over 50% small / mid cap companies

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Invests in small, mid and large cap companies / assets

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Targeted Positive Investments
Invests >25% of fund in environmental/social solutions companies

Find funds that invest >25% of their capital towards companies where a major part of their business is focused on helping to address environmental or social challenges.

Invests >50% of fund in environmental/social solutions companies

Find funds that invest >50% of their capital in companies where a major part of their business is focused on helping to address environmental or social challenges.

Impact Methodologies
Aims to generate positive impacts (or 'outcomes')

Funds that aim to help or support the delivery of positive social or environmental impacts (or societal/real world outcomes) by investing in companies they regard as beneficial to people and / or the planet. Strategies vary. See fund literature for further information.

Positive environmental impact theme

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Positive social impact theme

Find funds that specifically state that they aim to deliver positive social (i.e. people related) impacts and/or outcomes.

Invests in environmental solutions companies

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Invests in social solutions companies

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Invests in sustainability / ESG disruptors

Find funds that specifically set out to invest in companies that are regarded as 'disrupting' existing business practices - typically through the development of innovative (sustainability aware) products and/or practices.

Aim to deliver positive impacts through engagement

Fund aims to deliver positive environmental and or social impacts (real world benefits) through its engagement with investee assets

Over 50% in assets providing environmental or social ‘solutions’

50% of fund assets are regarded by the fund manager as being significantly focused on providing solutions to environmental or social challenges. Strategies vary.

How The Fund Works
Positive selection bias

Find funds that focus on finding and investing in companies with positive / beneficial attributes. This strategy can be applied in addition to exclusion criteria and engagement/stewardship activity.

Negative selection bias

Find funds where their main 'ethical approach' is to avoid companies by using negative screening criteria. Read fund literature for further information.

Strictly screened ethical fund

Find funds where their main approach is to apply positive or negative ethical, social and / or environmental screens. Strictly screened funds are likely to exclude more companies than other related fund options. See fund literature for further information.

Significant harm exclusion

Aims to avoid companies that do significant harm. This originates from the EU’s sustainable finance ‘DNSH’ (do no significant harm) work, which is not necessarily used by UK investors.

Combines norms based exclusions with other SRI criteria

Find funds that make significant use of internationally agreed 'norms' (e.g. United Nations Global Compact - UNGC - or the UN Sustainable Development Goals - SDGs) as part of their investment selection process alongside additional SRI criteria such as positive or negative stock selection policies and/or stewardship strategies.

Combines ESG strategy with other SRI criteria

Find funds that have an ESG strategy (which is typically focused on avoiding companies that pose environmental, social or governance related risks) with additional criteria such as positive and/or negative screens, themes and stewardship strategies.

Norms focus

Find funds that use internationally agreed standards, conventions and 'norms' to help direct where the fund can and cannot invest (e.g. the UN Global Compact, UN Sustainable Development Goals). Read fund literature for further information.

Focus on ESG risk mitigation

A major focus of these funds is the careful management of environmental, social and governance (ESG) related risks - typically by avoiding or being underweight in companies seen as posing major risks in these areas (i.e. not necessarily by using themes, exclusions etc).

SRI / ESG / Ethical policies explained on website

Find funds that have published explanations of their ethical, social and/or environmental policies online (i.e. fund decision making strategies/ buy/sell &/or asset management strategies).

Do not use stock / securities lending

This fund does not use stock lending for performance or risk purposes.

Unscreened Assets & Cash
Assets typically aligned to sustainability objectives 70 - 79%

The percentage of assets held within the fund that match the fund’s sustainability objectives and are not being held purely for risk management purposes, such as derivatives and cash equivalent assets.

Assets typically aligned to sustainability objectives 80 – 89%

The percentage of assets held within the fund that match the fund’s sustainability objectives and are not being held purely for risk management purposes, such as derivatives and cash equivalent assets.

All assets (except cash) meet published sustainability criteria

All assets held in the fund - except cash - meet the sustainability criteria published in fund documentation.

Intended Clients & Product Options
Intended for investors interested in sustainability

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Intended for clients interested in ethical issues

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Faith friendly

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Available via an ISA (OEIC only)

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Portfolio SRI / ESG options available (DFMs)

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Multiple SRI / ESG portfolio options available (DFMs)

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Bespoke SRI / ESG portfolios available (DFMs)

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Labels & Accreditations
SDR Labelled

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Fund Management Company Information

About The Business
Boutique / specialist fund management company

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Specialist positive impact fund management company

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Responsible ownership / stewardship policy or strategy (AFM company wide)

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ESG / SRI engagement (AFM company wide)

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Vote all* shares at AGMs / EGMs (AFM company wide)

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Responsible ownership / ESG a key differentiator (AFM company wide)

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Sustainable property strategy (AFM company wide)

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Integrates ESG factors into all / most (AFM) fund research

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In-house diversity improvement programme (AFM company wide)

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Diversity, equality & inclusion engagement policy (AFM company wide)

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Invests in newly listed companies (AFM company wide)

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Invests in new sustainability linked bond issuances (AFM company wide)

Asset management company has investments in bonds designed to meet sustainability requirements - however these assets may not be 'ringfenced' for this purpose. See fund manager website for details.

Offer structured intermediary training on sustainable investment

Fund management entity offers unstructured intermediary training on sustainable investment (ie for financial advisers and wealth managers)

Offer unstructured intermediary sustainable investment training

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Collaborations & Affiliations
PRI signatory

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UKSIF member

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Fund EcoMarket partner

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Resources
In-house responsible ownership / voting expertise

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Employ specialist ESG / SRI / sustainability researchers

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Use specialist ESG / SRI / sustainability research companies

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ESG specialists on all investment desks (AFM company wide)

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Accreditations
PRI A+ rated (AFM company wide)

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UK Stewardship Code signatory (AFM company wide)

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Engagement Approach
Regularly lead collaborative ESG initiatives (AFM company wide)

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Encourage responsible corporate taxation (AFM company wide)

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Engaging on climate change issues

Fund manager has stewardship /responsible ownership strategy that is focused on addressing climate change with investee assets.

Engaging to reduce plastics pollution / waste

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Engaging on biodiversity / nature issues

The asset manager has a responsible ownership / stewardship strategy that focuses on biodiversity and nature issues relating to the assets they invest the aim of which will be to reduce harm and or deliver improvement. Strategies vary. https://tnfd.global

Engaging to encourage a Just Transition

Asset manager has a responsible ownership / stewardship strategy which means they are working to encourage the shift to more sustainable business practices in ways that respect and are sensitive to social issues and the impact change has on people effected by the changes that are taking place. https://www.transitionpathwayinitiative.org/ https://transitiontaskforce.net/

Engaging on human rights issues

Asset manager has responsible ownership / stewardship strategy in place which aims to address human rights issues in investee companies (and potentially their suppliers) with the aim of raising standards

Engaging on labour / employment issues

Asset manager has responsible ownership / stewardship strategy in place that aims to improve labour standards for the benefit of employees in investee companies (and potentially their suppliers)

Engaging on diversity, equality and / or inclusion issues

Asset management company has a stewardship strategy in place which involves working to raise diversity, equality and inclusion standards across investee assets

Engaging to stop modern slavery

working with the assets they hold to help stamp out modern slavery - where direct or indirect company employees are exploited for business benefits.

Engaging on governance issues

Fund managers have stewardship strategies in place that focus on improving governance standards across investee assets

Engaging on responsible supply chain issues

Has a stewardship / responsible ownership strategy that encourages responsible supply chain - ie the managers will discuss environmental, social and governance issues with investee companies with the aim of raising standards

Engaging on the responsible use of AI

Working to address sustainability, ESG and related concerns around artificial intelligence.

Company Wide Exclusions
Controversial weapons avoidance policy (AFM company wide)

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Tobacco avoidance policy (AFM company wide)

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Fossil fuel exclusion policy (AFM company wide)

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Review(ing) carbon / fossil fuel exposure for all funds (AFM company wide)

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Coal divestment policy (AFM company wide)

This asset manager has a strategy in place that will lead them to exit direct investments in the coal mining industry. Managers ability to do this may depend on the geographic regions in which they invest.

Coal exclusion policy (group wide coal mining exclusion policy)

This asset manager excludes direct investment in the coal mining industry. Managers ability to do this may depend on the geographic regions in which they invest.

Do not invest in companies with fossil fuel reserves

Asset management company excludes companies with fossil fuel reserves across all assets/funds

Climate & Net Zero Transition
Publish 'CEO owned' Climate Risk policy (AFM company wide)

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Encourage carbon / greenhouse gas reduction (AFM company wide)

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In-house carbon / GHG reduction policy (AFM company wide)

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Committed to SBTi / Science Based Targets Initiative

See https://sciencebasedtargets.org/

Transparency
Publish responsible ownership / stewardship report (AFM company wide)

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Full SRI / responsible ownership policy information on company website

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Full SRI / responsible ownership policy information available on request

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Just Transition policy on website (AFM company wide)

This asset management company has published information on their website about the delivery of a 'just transition' - ie the delivery of the necessary shift to a sustainable future that takes full account of social implications - how change effects people. See eg https://www.unepfi.org/social-issues/just-transition/ or LSE Grantham

Publish full voting record (AFM company wide)

Fund management companies that publish a full record of how they vote their shares at AGMs (annual general meetings) and EGMs (extraordinary general meetings). Voting strategies have an important role to play encouraging higher environmental, social and governance standards.

Paris Alignment plan publicly available (AFM company wide)

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Dialshifter statement

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Sustainable, Responsible &/or ESG Policy:

The core philosophy for the EdenTree Green Future is that the true value of the planet’s natural capital is inappropriately priced within traditional market conventions, leading to the widespread abuse of natural resources and excessive pollution. As society becomes increasingly aligned with the protection of our natural capital, we believe that those business models that are designed to increase the resource efficiency of the global economy (both in the solutions they provide and the operations they oversee) will be able to deliver greater levels of demand and higher returns on capital over the long-term.


The strategy targets capital appreciation by investing in those companies developing solutions to tackle the world’s environmental challenges, while also supporting the acceleration towards a more sustainable future through our engagement and stewardship practices.


The strategy focuses on the following investment verticals which we call the Green Future Framework:

  • Alternative Energy
  • Energy Efficiency
  • Circular Economy
  • Environmental Services
  • Water Management
  • Future Mobility
  • Regenerative Agriculture


Under each theme of the Green Future Framework we have defined a series of solutions which define the investment focus of the fund from which we are seeking investments.


We seek investments which are the core of what they do provide solutions within Green Future framework. We may also seek investments which are undergoing a rapid transition towards solutions.
The Fund will avoid investment where there is material involvement (10% or more) in alcohol and tobacco production, conventional weapon production, gambling, publication of violent or explicit materials, intensive farming, fossil fuel exploration and production and high interest (subprime) lending.


The Fund will avoid companies with material operations in oppressive regimes. The Fund has a proprietary means of assessing oppressive regime risk, and operates this on a case by case basis. It will also seek to avoid companies that have exposure to the manufacture of unconventional weapons where these are defined as nuclear, biological and chemical weapons, land mines and cluster bombs. Finally, the Fund will seek to avoid companies using animals to test cosmetic, beauty or household products. It will invest in pharmaceuticals companies that may conduct animal testing but will encourage the adoption of the 3R principles: refine, reduce, and replace.

 

 

 

Process:

At EdenTree, we believe that detailed fundamental analysis and proprietary research are prerequisites for successful stock selection within global equity markets. Therefore, as a team, we spend a considerable amount of time discussing and modelling transformative sustainability trends, consuming academic and industry research, as well as engaging with companies and key business stakeholders. This mix of top-down and bottom-up proprietary analysis has led to the construction of a Green Future Investment Universe, consisting of those companies that are making an active contribution to the multi-trillion-dollar environmental solutions value chain.


The Green Future Investment Universe is central to the strategy’s investment process and ensures that the investment process is multi-thematic, dynamic, disciplined, and repeatable. The investment process has been shaped over 20 years, through multiple economic and innovation cycles.


The investment process is considered through 4 stages: Sourcing, evaluation, investment analysis and revaluation.


Sourcing

EdenTree has developed a global thematic investment opportunities database of over 1,500 companies globally. This represents the core source from which investment ideas can be generated. The database is constantly evolving as new environmental solutions emerge, new companies list on public markets, or indeed as existing listed entities transition into environmental solution providers.


Evaluating

From the Green Future database the investment managers seek to evaluate an active pool of around 200 companies. The evaluation process considers 4 principle pivots. Namely; seeking investments around a specific solution (Thematic), investments which have a specific innovation of technology pathway (Innovation), investments which have strong fundamental returns or potential returns (Fundamental) and finally appreciating wider market dynamics and source potential under-appreciated investments (Market Dynamics).

 

Investment Analysis

We hold to the belief that long-term returns are more likely to be achieved by investing responsibly in sustainable businesses and therefore seek to find companies that generate returns without future detriment to the environment and society. In order to achieve this, we consider both the financial and responsible research in detail to form a comprehensive view of companies, their risks and opportunities. This includes considered analysis of investment solution alignment, the ability of the company to sustain and enhance a competitive advantage over the long-term, financial analysis of the investment (notably the ability of investments to generate sustainable returns alongside capital structure), and a comprehensive assessment of the management team (notably their skill, track record and commitment to a sustainable future). All with the goal of identifying the best opportunities to deliver long-term returns for our clients.


The fund style is that of blended approach, seeking to incorporate companies within a lifecycle analysis framework namely.

  • Pioneering – earlier stage but high disruptive potential through their products of service.
  • Inflecting – rapidly deployment of proven technologies responding to market growth.
  • Sustaining – mature technologies with established market positions with the capacity to generate sustainable positive cashflows and commonly return cash to shareholders.


The outcome of the investment process ensures multiple thematic exposures, across a variety of market capitalisations and global distribution of investment. Exposures are determined by our investment selection over asset allocation.

 

Resources, Affiliations & Corporate Strategies:

EdenTree’s Head of Responsible Investment Carlota Esguevillas reports into EdenTree’s Chief Investment Officer Charlie Thomas, who is part of EdenTree’s Executive Committee. The Executive Committee and ultimately the EdenTree Investment Management Board have responsibility for oversight for EdenTree’s ESG Processes.

The RI Team is part of the wider Investment Team, and provides the specialist in-house resource for ESG screening, engagement, voting and thought leadership. The Team sit together in our London office and there is ongoing interaction between them, whether they are discussing a company screen, upcoming webinar, potential expert briefing for our website or evolving regulatory requirements.

  • Carlota Esguevillas, Head of Responsible Investment – Carlota is responsible for leading the Team. Prior to being promoted at the start of this year, Carlota led EdenTree’s work on social topics such as human rights, diversity and workforce issues.
  • Amelia Gaston, Senior Responsible Investment Analyst – Amelia leads EdenTree’s work environment and climate change issues.
  • Hayley Grafton, Senior Responsible Investment Analyst – Hayley leads on the firm's approach to corporate governance and proxy voting.
  • Cordelia Dower-Tylee, Responsible Investment Analyst – Cordelia leads EdenTree’s environmental work, with an emphasis on water, and supports the company’s work on governance.


Our basic ESG risk analysis is provided by our data providers, ISS ESG & Sustainalytics, who flag potential violations of global norms. In addition, if any of our holdings breach our screens we are immediately notified by our data providers and can then review the breach with the ultimate sanction of divestment if we deem it necessary. Furthermore, periodically stocks and instruments held within our funds are reviewed by the RI Team to ensure that they remain suitable, whilst the team monitors any negative news flow, engaging with companies to provide clarity and assess the risk level involved.

Our RI team conducts additional research and analysis from publicly available materials including:

  • Company literature (annual reports, websites and sustainability reports)
  • Industry or trade body publications and websites
  • NGO reports and websites e.g. Banktrack
  • Government and academic research
  • Investor benchmark initiatives


Edentree plays a leading and longstanding role across multiple organisations. They are signatories, members and subscribers to a number of industry partnerships and initiatives including:


Signatory organisations

  • Principles of Responsible Investing (PRI);
  • UK Sustainable Investment & Finance Association (UKSIF);
  • Global Impact Investing Network;
  • UK Stewardship Code FRC;
  • CDP (formerly Carbon Disclosure Project);
  • Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change (IIGCC);
  • Farm Animal Investment Risk & Return (FAIRR);
  • Financing a Just Transition Alliance;
  • World Benchmarking Alliance;
  • Workforce Disclosure Initiative (WDI);
  • Access to Nutrition Initiative;
  • Access to Medicine Initiative;
  • Investor Initiative on Hazardous Chemicals


Collaborative engagement initiatives

  • PRI Advance Human Rights - Human Rights;
  • IIGCC Banks Working Group - Climate Change;
  • Climate Action 100+ - Climate Change;
  • Nature Action 100+ - Biodiversity;
  • Investor Action Group on AMR - Water & AMR;Valuing Water Initiative - Water;
  • Investor Initiative on Hazardous Chemicals - Water & Chemicals;
  • Microfibre pollution initiative - Plastics Pollution;
  • 30% Club Investor Group - Diversity;
  • WBA – Digital Inclusion Group - Digital rights;
  • Good Work Coalition - Good work;
  • Votes Against Slavery - Modern slavery


EdenTree believes these partnerships signals their commitment to having an active and positive role in the investment community. Collaborations are critical to driving change, whilst learning from expert sources allows them to provide more for their clients.

EdenTree also sits on UKSIF’s Analyst Committee, which advises on the development of UKSIF’s knowledge sharing programme on evolving sustainability issues. They also sit on the PRI’s Circular Economy Reference Group, which explores how investors can better integrate the principles of a circular economy into investment processes. EdenTree’s CIO, Charlie Thomas, sits on the IA’s Sustainability and Responsible Investment Committee.

Responsible Investment Panel Review

In addition to the review provided by the RI Team, this Team itself has external oversight from an independent Advisory Panel of eight senior industry practitioners with expertise in the field of responsible investment.

The EdenTree Responsible Investment Advisory Panel exists to provide advisory oversight of our ESG processes. They may advise and inform but not mandate a course of action. For assurance purposes, we view the Panel as providing external independent assurance of our process and RI activity. Our Group Internal Audit function also plays a role in reviewing and certifying key internal controls, risk functions and other stewardship processes such as proxy voting. The Executive Committee and ultimately the EdenTree Investment Management Board have responsibility for oversight.

The Panel is made up of a number of industry experts, including:

  • Will Oulton – Panel Chair, (former Head of RI at First Sentier)
  • Mike Barry – Former Director of Sustainable Business
  • Verity Mitchell - Independent Consultant, (former Director of Utilities for HSBC Global Research)
  • Julian Parrott – Client Member, Ethical Futures
  • Sue Round – Chair of EdenTree Investment Management ACD Board and former CEO
  • Annette Ferguson – Independent Consultant (former Head of Sustainable Business at Vodafone
  • Paul Simpson OBE – Strategic Advisor (former CEO of CDP

 

 

Dialshifter

This fund is helping to ‘shift the dial from brown to green’ by…

The fund invests wholly in the equities of green and environmental solutions businesses that are making a material difference towards the transition to a low carbon economy. The fund allocates capital to businesses operating in one or more of seven core investment themes, which we call the Green Future framework and focuses on business addressing global environmental challenges. These themes include alternative energy, energy efficiency, circular economy, environmental services, water management, future mobility and regenerative agriculture.

The fund is also subject to our responsibility criteria which has six different considerations including the environment and climate.

 

 

Our organisation is helping to support the Paris Climate Agreement and the Race to Net Zero by…

We have close to 100% of assets (98%) managed in an ethical and sustainable way. We carefully scrutinize whether emissions reductions targets are science based, and all funds are currently in-line with the Paris Agreement target of no more than 1.5 degrees of warming.

Our parent the Benefact Group aims to deliver a zero direct impact (Scope I & II) by 2023, and net zero (Scope III) by 2040. EdenTree will support the Group in its ambitions, whilst developing its own thinking to support investing clients. As a Group subsidiary we form part of the Group’s overall Net Zero ambition.

 

SDR Labelling: Sustainability Impact label

Key Performance Indicators:

EdenTree has set out its position on SDR on the website. See link below: