30-04-2024 · Insight

Voting to support the climate transition

Climate change has taken center stage during the annual general meeting (AGM) season for many years, offering investors the chance to vote on how well companies are transitioning toward net zero. But it’s not a simple matter of voting yes or no.

    Authors

  • Michiel van Esch - Head of Voting

    Michiel van Esch

    Head of Voting

The way in which companies are readying themselves to cut emissions can be complex, and will vary depending on the reliance of their business on fossil fuels. It is a different beast for an oil and gas company than it is for one in the financial services industry. But it’s still an important subject for shareholder scrutiny.

Robeco has long believed that over the long run, companies that have strong climate transition plans are likely to be more viable companies for the future, and will help to achieve the decarbonization requirements of many of our clients. At the same time, the energy crisis and geopolitical uncertainty have created more questions and debate about the right course of action in the short run.