ESG in Insurance
As our global society becomes more attuned to the far-reaching implications of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, no industry remains untouched - including insurance. What exactly does ESG mean for insurers, and how has it shifted from a once peripheral consideration to a core operational principle?
The Origin and Significance of ESG
It was back in 2005 when the term 'ESG' was first coined in a groundbreaking study initiated by then UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan. The study, 'Who Cares Wins,' concluded that integrating ESG factors into capital markets made good business sense, led to increased market sustainability, and ultimately, better societal outcomes. Delve deeper into the origin and significance of ESG.
Over time, ESG considerations have moved from the fringes of investment decision-making to its core. Investors now recognise ESG information as an invaluable tool to understand a company's corporate purpose, strategy, and management quality. In other words, ESG is not just about being good—it's about being smart in business.
The Implications of ESG for Insurers
Insurers have found themselves at the forefront of this shift towards responsible investing and ESG incorporation. From being incorporated into the ratings of AM Best and other major insurance company rating agencies to informing investment portfolio performance, ESG information plays a vital role in insurers' risk management processes. It also has a tangible impact on their reputation in an increasingly socially and environmentally conscious marketplace.
But with opportunities come challenges. ESG considerations are driving new and dynamic approaches to risk modelling, investments, and business operations. Climate risk, leading to changes in the frequency of extreme weather-related incidents, can result in larger losses. Meeting ESG requirements such as modern labour standards, governance, and carbon reduction can be a complex task, especially when insurers support industries each with their own set of challenges.
New Legislation and its Impact on Insurers
Regulation has not lagged behind in this ESG progression. New legislation came into effect in April 2022, reinforcing the regulations created by the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). It mandated large companies to disclose climate-related financial information.
This legislation applies to over 1300 of the UK’s largest traded companies, including insurers. Consequently, it brings a laser-sharp focus to insurers' investment policies and operations. They now need to assess and verify the green credentials of the companies in their supply chain to comply with the UK’s Net Zero commitment. Unpack the implications of this new legislation for your business.
The Future of ESG in Insurance: Policies, Reporting, and Digital Transformation
As ESG issues surge to the top of business agendas, insurers are refining their strategies and policies to align with this reality. Whether its corporate use of renewable energy sources, board diversity, or transparent corporate reporting, ESG considerations are now interwoven with insurers' operational fabric.
The rapidly evolving world of ESG presents both challenges and opportunities for insurers.
