PGGM was one of the first signatories to the ‘Principles for Responsible Investment’ (PRI), on 27 April 2006. The Principles define the framework for PGGM’s activities relating to responsible investment and inform the advice it provides for its client, in the belief that financial returns and social returns are not incompatible.

The Principles were developed by a group of leading institutional investors in close cooperation with the United Nations. PGGM, which has been involved from the start, sees signature of the Principles as a significant declaration of intent to make further advances in responsible investment and uses them as a policy guideline in advising its client and providing asset management on its client’s behalf.

The Principles for Responsible Investment are:

1. We will incorporate ESG (environmental, social and corporate governance) issues into investment analysis and decision-making processes.
2. We will be active owners and incorporate ESG issues into our own corporate government policy.
3. We will seek appropriate disclosure on ESG issues by the entities in which we invest.
4. We will promote acceptance and implementation of the Principles within the investment industry.
5. We will work together to enhance our effectiveness in implementing PRI.
6. We will report on activities and progress towards implementing PRI.