Climate Week: Promoting Economic Growth, Resilient Infrastructure, Inclusive Communities, and Strong Institutions

Welcome to the fourth edition of this Climate Week series! The UK finance sector has a huge chance to step up and contribute to goals like decent work, economic growth, peace, justice, and building solid infrastructure. Today we dive into how the industry is aligning with the SDGs, particularly when it comes to pushing for economic stability, sparking innovation, and ensuring that communities can grow sustainably.

Making sure these goals line up with how the financial world operates is key—not just for making our economy stronger, but also for making sure social equity and environmental sustainability are front and centre. As financial institutions start to adopt practices that support these goals, they can drive serious change while cutting the risks that come with economic and social instability.

In this piece, we’ll explore the progress the finance industry has made, along with the challenges still in the way, all while focusing on the power of sustainable finance and innovation. Ultimately, this conversation is all about why it’s necessary to weave ethical practices and sustainable strategies into the financial sector. That’s how we’re going to make real change and build a better future for everyone.

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

The UK finance and banking sector plays a pivotal role in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 8, which aims for decent work and economic growth. While the sector has made significant strides in job creation and promoting financial inclusion, challenges persist in ensuring the quality of these jobs, especially in terms of job security and wages.

The growing focus on sustainable finance is a positive development, as it can contribute to both economic growth and environmental sustainability. But it's not always sunshine and rainbows. The sector still faces challenges related to corruption and financial crime, which can undermine trust and hinder economic development.

The rise of fintech and other technological innovations is transforming the financial sector, creating both opportunities and challenges. The UK's exit from the European Union has also had implications for the sector, including potential impacts on jobs and market access.

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SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

The sector's commitment to SDG 16 manifests in several ways. Robust regulatory frameworks, coupled with effective oversight, contribute to a secure and transparent financial environment. These measures mitigate risks associated with financial crime. It's about making sure the rules are clear, the system is stable, and everyone's playing fair.

Furthermore, the UK's financial sector actively supports initiatives aimed at fostering justice and equality. This includes efforts to combat corruption, promote financial inclusion, and ensure access to legal remedies for all.

While significant progress has been made, challenges remain. Addressing issues such as cybercrime, ensuring equitable access to financial services, and maintaining the integrity of the financial system are ongoing priorities.

Key Trends and Challenges:

• Technological Disruption: The rise of fintech and other technological innovations is transforming the financial sector, creating both opportunities and challenges. ?
• Brexit: The UK's exit from the European Union has had implications for the financial sector, including potential impacts on jobs and market access. ?
• Climate Change: The financial sector is increasingly aware of the risks posed by climate change and is taking steps to integrate climate considerations into its decision-making.

Here are a few prominent examples that incorporate both goals:

• The Impact Investing Institute : This organisation promotes impact investing, which aims to generate a positive social or environmental impact alongside financial returns. They have been instrumental in launching and supporting funds that focus on job creation, financial inclusion, and sustainable economic development. Take a look at some of our interviews with Dame Elizabeth Corley on Impact Investing, Intention and Authenticity, Sustainable Investing and Everyday Impact.
• Columbia Threadneedle Investments EMEA APAC CT UK Social Bond Fund: is designed to deliver both financial returns and positive social outcomes. Investments are chosen based on their ability to deliver both financial returns and positive social impact, it collaborates with the Big Issue Group to enhance social assessments and produce independent reports and includes bonds from corporates, government agencies, local bodies, mutuals, and charities, focusing on areas of high social need. Learn more: In Conversation.

While there’s a lot to celebrate—job creation, economic growth, and a push for transparency— let’s not sugarcoat it: challenges still linger.

The integration of sustainable finance and the rise of fintech present both significant opportunities and obstacles. These innovations have the potential to drive inclusivity and efficiency, yet they also demand vigilance against emerging threats such as cybercrime and regulatory complexities stemming from Brexit.

Moreover, the commitment to impact investing, as demonstrated by initiatives like the Impact Investing Institute and the Columbia Threadneedle Investments UK Social Bond Fund, exemplifies how the sector can align financial returns with social and environmental outcomes. By prioritizing ethical practices and accountability, the finance sector can not only enhance its resilience but also contribute meaningfully to the broader goals of peace, justice, and economic prosperity.

As we look ahead, it’s clear that collaboration will be key. Everyone—regulators, financial institutions, and communities—needs to come together to tackle these challenges head-on. The road may have its bumps, but with ongoing commitment and creativity, the UK finance sector can truly drive meaningful change and help us all work towards a better future.

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure | SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

SDG 9 and 11: A Synergistic Approach

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities are closely intertwined. Both goals are essential for achieving sustainable economic development and improving the quality of life for all.

Infrastructure is a key component of both goals. Investing in sustainable infrastructure, such as transportation, energy, and telecommunications, is crucial for promoting economic growth, creating jobs, and building resilient cities.

Innovation is another critical factor. By investing in research and development, the financial sector can support the development of new technologies that can improve the efficiency and sustainability of urban infrastructure. For example, advancements in renewable energy, smart transportation systems, and sustainable building materials can contribute to more sustainable cities.

Inclusivity is also essential, by ensuring that infrastructure investments and innovation benefits are distributed equitably we can promote social justice and reduce inequality.

Some examples:

• In our LGPS Infrastructure and Infrastructure Masterclass, a selection of experts from Edmond de Rothschild , Igneo Infrastructure Partners , Local Pensions Partnership Investments , ATLAS Infrastructure , Macquarie Asset Management and Pantheon Ventures discuss some of the latest projects and innovation within infrastructure as an asset class.
• First Sentier Investors Global Listed Infrastructure Fund: The fund aims to achieve long-term capital growth through investments in listed infrastructure companies that own and operate vital assets, such as utilities, transportation systems, and communication networks. By focusing on high-quality businesses, it promotes innovation and sustainable practices that are essential for resilient infrastructure development. For a deeper dive watch our Funds In Focus with insights by Invesco EMEA , Marlborough and Thorntons Investments .
• Impax Asset Management Listed Infrastructure Fund: By investing in companies that provide essential infrastructure for a sustainable future, the fund directly supports the development of sustainable industries, fosters innovation, and contributes to the creation of resilient, equitable cities. Learn more: Sustainable Infrastructure.
• Premier Miton Investors Global Infrastructure Fund: the fund focuses on generating income and long-term capital growth by investing in a diversified portfolio of global infrastructure assets. The fund targets companies involved in essential services, such as utilities, transportation, and telecommunications with an emphasis on sustainable practices. For more insights by Premier Miton watch: Infrastructure Investing, Global Infrastructure Income Fund, Global Infrastructure, Global Listed Infrastructure and Why Listed Infrastructure?

As we wrap up this discussion we’re filled with hope about the possibilities ahead. While we’ve made strides in promoting decent work, economic growth, and sustainable infrastructure, significant challenges like job security and equitable access to financial services remain. Tackling these issues requires collaboration among regulators, financial institutions, and communities. With a strong focus on innovation and sustainable finance, we can create a more inclusive economy that benefits everyone.

In this fourth edition of our series, we’re reminded of how crucial it is to prioritize ethics and sustainability in our financial practices. As we look ahead, it’s our shared responsibility to ensure these goals come to life through action. As Maya Angelou said, “Nothing will work unless you do.” Together, we can build a future that fosters not only economic prosperity but also peace, justice, and vibrant communities for all of us. Let’s keep pushing for that change!