TLDR:
- Anxiousness about attacks on ESG investments and DEI grows, leading to panic among impact investors.
- Impact investors at a Chicago conference discuss strategies to counter the backlash and promote sustainability and inclusion in American politics.
The article discusses the growing concerns among impact investors about attacks on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investment decision-making, as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The recent Supreme Court decisions and political climate have exacerbated these worries, leading to a sense of panic among impact investors. The US Sustainable Investment Forum’s annual conference in Chicago saw over 300 impact investors come together to brainstorm ways to “shift the narrative” and promote sustainability and inclusion in American politics and global climate policy.
One of the proposed strategies is to focus on long-term trends and positive results, aim for bipartisan progress, mobilize popular support for sustainability, and safeguard existing gains. The goal is to build resilience in social, economic, and climate aspects, appealing to a wider constituency and demonstrating the tangible benefits of impact investing. Concerns were raised about the industry’s failure to communicate the business case effectively due to jargon and complexity.
On the investment front, California-based Sila secured a $375 million equity round to produce battery materials for electric vehicles, with a focus on increasing energy density and charging speed. Other startups like AeroShield Materials also received funding for energy-saving technologies. The article also highlights the fundraising efforts of impact funds in emerging markets and their focus on traditional and venture capital opportunities.
