Why it matters
The choices we make about our investments and the risks that we underwrite are an important opportunity for positive impact.
Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) covers a wide range of areas, such as whether a business uses energy responsibly, considers human rights issues and consumer welfare, and displays good checks and balances in the way it is run. We are working to embed ESG considerations into our business decisions.
In addition to being the right thing to do, a positive approach to ESG issues is a good indicator of the overall quality of a business’s management practices, and therefore their likelihood of long-term success.
Our approach
As a signatory to the United Nations Principles for Sustainable Insurance (PSI) and a member of ClimateWise, it’s important that we make informed decisions about the types of risk we choose to underwrite and where we invest our premiums.
First developed in 2019, and updated in 2022, the RSA Climate Change and Low Carbon Policy outlines our role in insuring renewable energy generation projects and restricts capacity available to carbon-intensive industries, while placing a significant focus on transition for existing clients. Through our policy, we target an underwriting portfolio for energy production that is over 75% low carbon by 2030.
Responsible underwriting
RSA operates in a global environment and we are frequently asked to provide insurance across borders. As part of maintaining an appropriate level of scrutiny for the work we do, our Underwriting Policy promotes responsible practices, assessing potential customers in high risk sectors or locations against ESG criteria.
Our high-risk country framework provides guidance and requirements to refer the writing of certain business or the payment of certain claims to a more senior level where a matter is linked to a country that RSA deems higher risk in certain regards.
Responsible Investment
Our Investment team considers the ESG policies that external fund managers have in place as part of the appraisal process for onboarding any new managers. We also use specialist data sets to review the overall ESG performance of our investment portfolio.
Insuring renewable energy
We are committed to playing an active role in the transition to a low-carbon economy. Our Renewables teams underwrite renewable energy projects across the world, providing cover for the construction and operation of wind, solar, hydro and bioenergy developments. They work closely with manufacturers and developers to advise on the best approach for upcoming projects, reduce risks and support claims.
Find out about how we're supporting the transition to a low carbon economy through our investment and underwriting portfolios in our Climate Change and Low Carbon Policy.
