The climate crisis has far-reaching impact, with climate change posing immeasurable and immediate risks to our ecosystems, food security, economies, and investment portfolios. The effects of climate change present both significant opportunities for investors, as well as risks. As investors we recognize that taking action for climate change is both ethically and fiscally responsible and imperative when assessing operational and financial risks.
The Nia Impact Capital portfolios are fossil fuel free and are designed using our six solution themes to identify companies that are working to solve for some of the world’s most daunting sustainability challenges.
A Sustainable Planet
We take a full spectrum approach to supporting a sustainable planet by choosing to invest in companies delivering climate solutions while simultaneously responsibly addressing issues including:
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Circularity and re-use of materials to ensure products are renewed or regenerated, rather than wasted
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Measuring and reporting on Scope 1, 2 and 3 carbon emissions*
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Scope 1 – direct emissions from sources owned or controlled by a company
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Scope 2 – indirect emissions from purchased electricity, steam, heat, and cooling
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Scope 3 – all other emissions associated with a company’s activities
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Climate equity and justice for underserved communities and/or the communities in which they operate
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Preservation of vital resources such as water, rivers and oceans
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Consideration and planning for the protection of biodiversity
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Fossil Fuel Free Since Inception
Nia is committed to investing for a sustainable future economy, which means excluding investments in fossil fuels such as coal, gas, and oil extraction.
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Insight into some of our Portfolio Companies
We seek to include companies in the portfolio to both address the risks posed by climate change and to take advantage of the opportunities that this crisis presents. Recognizing the demand for mitigation and adaptation, we seek to include companies that are providing renewable energy solutions, developing energy-efficient technologies, advancing sustainable design and engineering, and promoting the growth of organic and regenerative agriculture.
Here are some examples of the leading and climate positive actions Nia portfolio companies are undertaking:
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Carbon Emissions and Human Rights Reporting: measuring, tracking, and reporting on sustainability performance metrics, engaging with suppliers on responsible raw material sourcing, operating a supply chain free of conflict minerals, and contributing to the circular economy.
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Climate Justice: saving money for residents in an affordable housing community by installing solar panels. Offering paid solar job training opportunities for residents of the community.
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Circularity: converting decommissioned wind blades into concrete products, recycled fiberglass yarns, construction panels, and structural flooring applications.
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Meaningful Supply Chain Engagement: evaluating suppliers through questionnaires and compliance with ESG criteria including corporate governance, management systems, human rights, and safety policies. Tracking suppliers’ greenhouse gas emissions, waste generated, recyclable content, and overall environmental impact.
As impact investors we seek to use the power of investment dollars to help address critical social and ecological challenges.
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*Scope 1, 2,& 3 emissions definition source: https://www.sustain.life/blog/scope-emissions