First and foremost, I wanted to acknowledge all of the people across Canada that are being directly affected by the horrific forest fires burning across our beautiful country. Our hearts and prayers go out to you during this very difficult time.  Unfortunately, these fires are just one example as to why our world is in desperate need of positive change. As investors, we have the unique opportunity to participate in the positive changes that are quickly becoming our future. Investing in companies that are actively making changes to their processes in order to be kinder to our planet and the people who inhabit it; is becoming more and more important. These companies will not only help sustain our planet and provide for future generations, they offer great growth opportunities for investors.   “More and more data are emerging linking sustainable business practices to value creation for shareholders. And that represents a challenge for investors who are not incorporating these factors into their company assessment process.” – Doing better, together. By Mackenzie Investments Here are the updated numbers by Mackenzie Investments as to why they believe this new lens on long-term sustainability must be stakeholder focused. 71 Million. The number of people pushed into extreme poverty in 2020. 1.6 Billion. How many workers in the informal economy risked losing their livelihoods during the pandemic.  35%. Percentage of people with access to credit in developing countries. 4.6 Million. Number of premature deaths caused by air pollution in 2016.25%. Percentage of women represented in National Parliaments. 38%. Percentage growth in global electric waste to be generated by 2030.  Ready or not, positive change is on its way. The United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development has set 17 goals for addressing the growing global crises of poverty, inequity, and climate change. In order to achieve these goals they will need a massive private sector commitment of US$5 trillion per year until 2030. “Right now, there are trillions of dollars of capital seeking companies that support and contribute to positive environmental, social, and governance changes globally. As that happens, it is reshaping the investment world and how investors build portfolios.”- Doing better, together. By Mackenzie Investments

Below is a picture from the article Doing better, together. By Mackenzie Investments of global respondents who say it is “extremely or very important that companies implement programs to improve the environment”.

If you would like to know more or include more sustainable investments within your portfolio, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Have a great long weekend!Tracey and Paige

Source: https://www.mackenzieinvestments.com/en/institute/insights/doing-better-together Photo by Noah Buscher on Unsplash

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