The Russian attack on Ukraine has put energy policies of various countries into sharp focus. Germany may be re-thinking their previous decision to shutter its nuclear plants which increased its need to buy natural gas from Russia. Meanwhile, the United States considers its own energy-independence path - renewables or more drilling for hydrocarbons? The world economies continue to struggle with decisions of sustainable vs. fast. Companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint may have fewer options for green energy if this conflict results in more hydrocarbon production instead of renewable infrastructure investments.
Read More: Latest energy wake-up call: How long must we depend on autocratic petro-states?
Volunteering, divesting of Russian assets, and rerouting of supply chains are all ways that individuals and companies are supporting the united front in support of Ukraine. In other news, Airbnb is providing free temporary housing to 100,000 Ukrainian refugees. SpaceX donated Starlink terminals providing space-based Internet access to Ukraine. Clearly, corporations with a mission and mindset that goes beyond profit-maximization can have an impact on global causes.
Read More: ESG Framework Is Evident In Global Leaders' Response To Ukraine Invasion
With the war in Ukraine making headlines, some funds are clearly rethinking their stance on defense stocks. If democratic values are seen as a foundational good, then investing in the companies that support the defense of those values may have a role in an ESG portfolio.
Read More: ESG Rules Bend With War: SEB Says OK to Invest in Defense Stocks Again
Want to know more? Our ESG Director, Charles Carriere is available to discuss your ESG questions. Contact us here or email Charles at ccarriere@outsolve.com. Please don’t forget that your company has an impact on the environment, its employees, and the wider community. Responsible governance should consider these impacts along with the need for profitable operations.