On November 13, 2017, the European Commission launched a public consultation on institutional investors’ and asset managers’ duties regarding environmental and social sustainability.  The consultation is open for responses until January 22, 2018.

The consultation is in response to a recommendation in the EU High-Level Expert Group on sustainable finance interim report published in July 2017.  The interim report recommended that the Commission clarify that fiduciary duties of institutional investors and asset manages explicitly integrate material environmental, social and governance factors and long-term sustainability.  The Consultation Document notes that the Commission has commenced an impact assessment process assessing how such a clarification of institutional investors’ and asset managers’ duties regarding sustainability could contribute to a more efficient allocation of capital and sustainable and inclusive growth.

The consultation seeks evidence from “all citizens and organizations” of how clarifications or amendments to investor duties can contribute to more efficient allocation of capital and to more sustainable and inclusive growth; of how to ensure that end investors and beneficiaries have the right information to help them make sustainable choices; and from leading responsible investors on their strategies for considering environmental, social and governance issues.  Further information about the consultation, including how to respond, is available here.