Lack of data remains a challenge for sustainable investing in APAC

A survey published by Dutch asset management firm Robeco showed that lack of data, internal expertise, and capacity and resources, continue to hamper the growth of sustainable investing in the Asia-Pacific region. The survey, which involved 300 of the world's largest institutional and wholesale investors, showed that investors view climate change as one of the most important ESG issues. Climate change has also become central to or a significant factor in the investment policies of 75% of investors. The figure had risen to 70% among Asian investors this year, from 57% the previous year. Only 31% of Asian investors view biodiversity as central to their investment policy or as a significant factor today, trailing Europe at 57% and in line with North America at 31%.