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Japan's Largest Pension Fund Eyes Impact Investing Shift

GPIF's shift could inspire others. The Faroe Islands show how remote regions can go 100% renewable.

In this image I can see a poster which has so many buildings and text highlighted on it.
In this image I can see a poster which has so many buildings and text highlighted on it.

Japan's Largest Pension Fund Eyes Impact Investing Shift

Japan's Government Pension Investment Fund (GPIF), the world's largest pension fund, is considering a shift towards impact investing. This move, driven by the urgent need to tackle climate change and the growing momentum of Japan's non-state actors, could significantly reshape Asia's investment landscape and approach to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

The Japan Climate Initiative (JCI) recently announced a shift in its sustainability strategy, emphasizing the need for faster action to meet the 1.5°C climate goal. This change, influenced by the irreversible trend of decarbonization and the upcoming COP30, signals a stronger commitment by Japan's non-state actors to address the climate crisis.

GPIF, managing $1.8 trillion, is exploring a move towards impact investing. This shift could inspire at least four other Japanese pension funds to revise their policies, reflecting a growing global momentum towards measurable sustainability outcomes. Japan's impact investing market grew by a substantial 150% last year, reaching $117 billion.

Meanwhile, the Faroe Islands, a remote island region, are serving as a blueprint for others pursuing renewable energy. They plan to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2030, with tidal energy from Minesto's underwater 'kite' turbines supplying up to 40% of their electricity.

GPIF's potential shift towards impact investing, along with the Faroe Islands' renewable energy success, demonstrates a global trend towards sustainable practices. As Japan's impact investing market continues to grow, the country's non-state actors are stepping up their commitment to climate action, potentially reshaping Asia's investment landscape and approach to sustainability goals.

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