York University continues to demonstrate leadership in sustainable investing, as revealed in the newly released Sustainable Investing 2024-25 Progress Report.
The University’s endowment fund, which supports long-term funding, is managed with a strong commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles.
The fund’s purpose is to ensure stable financial support for the University’s future, while also making a positive impact on society and the environment. Each year, the University publishes a sustainability report to share progress, promote transparency and encourage responsible investment practices across the academic community.
According to the report, the endowment fund’s investment strategy is closely aligned with sustainable practices. Over the past year, the fund continued to reduce its environmental footprint, with Scope 1 and 2 emissions from equity investments now 43 per cent lower than the Paris Accord target. Scope 1 emissions refer to direct greenhouse gases released from sources that a company owns or controls, such as fuel burned in its facilities. Scope 2 emissions are indirect emissions resulting from the electricity, heating or cooling a company purchases and uses.
Since 2016, carbon emissions from equity investments have dropped by 88 per cent, and since 2021, fixed income investments have seen an 81 per cent reduction. The fund also recorded a 10.6 per cent investment return for the fiscal year, which is attributed to the integration of ESG factors in investment decisions.
To ensure the University’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, investment managers are expected to support organizations that consider their material impacts on the environment and society in addition to their financial performance. Annual reviews of fund managers’ ESG and stewardship activities ensure alignment with the fund’s sustainable investment goals.
Looking ahead, the report states that the University will continue to engage actively with fund managers and prioritize ESG integration to enhance risk-adjusted returns and support sustainable business practices. The University has committed more than $130 million to sustainable infrastructure and impact funds, reinforcing its role as a leader in responsible investing.
Reflecting on these achievements, Narin Kishinchandani, vice-president finance and administration, shares: “York University’s commitment to sustainable investing is rooted in our responsibility to future generations. By integrating social and environmental priorities into our investment strategy, we are protecting the value of the fund while helping to build a more just and sustainable world. We will continue to work with our partners to advance these goals and ensure the University’s long-term success.”
The full Sustainable Investing 2024-25 Progress Report is available online for those who wish to learn more about the University’s approach, results and future plans.