COP, Trump, and the path ahead for investors
As the world grapples with pressing climate challenges and political shifts, it’s easy to feel disheartened by the headlines.
We asked our Ethical Oversight Committee (EOC) to share their thoughts on the COP 29 gathering, the implications of Trump’s return, and how investors can remain a force for positive change.
(Left to right: Julia Dreblow, Cleona Lira, Shri Krishnansen, Chris Hegarty.)
Q: How important is climate action right now, especially with everything going on politically?
Chris Hegarty: “The urgency couldn’t be clearer. We need action on all fronts - governments, companies, everyone stepping up. Sure, having political leaders who might slow things down or even block progress makes things harder, but it also makes it even more vital for investors to keep demanding change.
Investors have a real voice here. When you push for climate action and preparedness in the companies you invest in, you’re driving progress. The reasons to accelerate the green transition -environmental, social, and economic - are stronger than ever. The challenges aren’t going away, and neither should we.”
Q: What can investors do when governments seem like they’re dragging their feet?
Shri Krishnansen: “When governments get in the way, investors have an even greater responsibility to reflect their values through their investments, and, more importantly, drive the change you want to see. With Parmenion’s profiles, this isn’t about charity or philanthropy - it’s about identifying credible opportunities that drive real-world change while delivering returns. The world is shifting, and those shifts create opportunities. Investors have the power to align their portfolios with the future they want to see, ensuring their capital contributes to the transition we need.”
Q: Is there any good news, especially in the UK?
Julia Dreblow: “Actually, there’s a lot happening in the UK that’s worth keeping an eye on:
- The UK government seems to be taking sustainability more seriously than before - with leadership possibly back on the agenda. Keir Starmer announced a new net-zero climate target at COP, and Ed Miliband (Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero), who seems genuinely passionate, is making moves.
- The FCA is responding to feedback on Sustainability Disclosure Requirements (SDR). They’ve slowed things down where needed and are making helpful adjustments.
- We’re seeing progress on international sustainability reporting standards, with initiatives like ISSB/IFRS’s standards (S1 and S2) improving trust in data and reporting.
There’s also a flurry of funds trying to meet new sustainability labels before year-end. Once that dust settles, I think we’ll see the industry calm down and refocus.
And as for Trump - yes, he’s a nightmare, but let’s not panic. Last time, businesses and states ignored him when he pulled out of the Paris Agreement. Movements like #WeAreStillIn showed that progress doesn’t just stop because of one leader. If anything, we might see that resilience come back stronger.”
Q: What role can investors play in shaping a safer, fairer world?
Cleona Lira: “The US is the biggest emitter per capita, and crucial for international climate cooperation, so we need them on board. While Trump’s proposals may resonate with parts of the public, the US political system has checks and balances which could temper the worst ideas.
What really matters is what we do. Investors have a huge role to play - through voting and engaging we can demand a world that prioritises life, fairness, and care for all beings. Businesses must be held accountable to serve humanity and the planet, not destroy it, and as investors, we can push for that. Investors matter more than ever."
The Parmenion view
Yes, the headlines can be heavy and shocking, but as Chris puts it, “The challenges aren’t going away, and neither should we.”
Investors have the power to shape the world through the decisions they make, supporting innovation, holding companies accountable, and pushing for a safer, greener future. Even in the face of daunting headlines, there’s reason to hope, and to act.
Find out more about ethical and sustainable investing.
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Parmenion accepts no duty of care or liability for loss arising from any person acting, or refraining from acting, as a result of any information contained within this article. All investment carries risk. The value of investments, and the income from them, can go down as well as up and investors may get back less than they put in. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns.
