Macquarie Asset Management has provided an update on its progress in advancing sustainability across its portfolio as part of its latest sustainability report.

This year's report covers the breadth of Macquarie Asset Management's activities, providing an insight into the sustainability opportunities and challenges present across its private markets (including infrastructure, green investments, agriculture and natural assets, real estate, private credit and asset finance) and public investments (including equities, fixed income and multiasset solutions) businesses in 2021.

The report also details Macquarie Asset Management's future plans and priorities. These include its goal to reach net-zero emissions across its portfolio by 2040, its ambitions as part of the Net Zero Asset Managers Initiative, and new opportunities presented by its recent integration of Macquarie's Green Investment Group. The report provides insights into Macquarie Asset Management's efforts to protect the health of ecosystems, strengthen its oversight of health and safety, and be more responsive to societal needs.

"In uncertain times like these, we need bold and courageous leadership — capable of taking a long-term perspective and recognising the opportunities that are possible when ambition is converted into action," said Ben Way, group head, Macquarie Asset Management. "This leadership is not the act of an individual, but the power of galvanising collective action through collaboration.

"That is why over the past year we have continued to work with our clients, portfolio companies, communities and peers to deliver on our sustainability priorities," Way continued. "Although this report looks back on our progress in 2021, we remain firmly focused on what is next, maintaining our flexibility in a continually evolving world so we can invest to deliver positive impact for everyone."

The effective management of environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks and opportunities is central to Macquarie Asset Management's decision-making and investment processes. Key sustainability initiatives implemented by Macquarie Asset Management seek not only to protect stakeholder value, but to drive positive social and environmental outcomes across its platform.

Macquarie Asset Management is participating in a range of industry initiatives to share its learnings and continue to improve its approach. Macquarie Asset Management was confirmed as a signatory to the UK Stewardship Code. Its performance under the United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment, which measures the effectiveness of sustainability policies and processes, was also published.

Macquarie Asset Management is trusted to manage more than $534 billion in assets globally. As a fiduciary and a custodian of vital businesses relied on by more than 100 million people each day, Macquarie Asset Management recognises it has both a responsibility and opportunity to drive positive change by creating stronger, more sustainable investments.