Responsible Investment
Suggested answers which are in line with UNISON policy and objectives.
Q 15: Responsible Investment is mainly used to manage long-term risks and improve investment performance. How important should this approach be in the investment decisions?
Model Answer (in line with UNISON objectives):
A core part of decisions, including wider environmental and social outcomes
Q 16: The fund has not set a formal net zero target at this stage. What is your view?
Model Answer (in line with UNISON objectives):
The fund should set a clear long-term target now.
Q 17: Climate change can affect investment returns in different ways (for example through regulation, physical risks, or changes in the economy). What is your view on how the pension fund should take account of climate change?
Model Answer (in line with UNISON objectives):
Take a strong and active approach, including setting targets and supporting companies to reduce their climate impact.
Q 18: The pension fund may be able to show the real-world influence of its investments (e.g. changing company behaviour, or environmental improvements). How important is it that the fund reports on these outcomes?
Model Answer (in line with UNISON objectives):
Very important.
Q 19: How comfortable are you with the pension fund investing across a wide range of companies and sectors, as long as the investments are legal and aim to deliver good long-term financial returns?
Model Answer (in line with UNISON objectives):
Very uncomfortable.
Q 20: How concerned are you (if at all) about each of the following areas of investment?
Q 20A: Environmental issues (e.g. climate change, fossil fuels)
Model Answer (in line with UNISON objectives):
Extremely concerned.
Q 20B: Social issues (e.g. impact on communities, gambling)
Model Answer (in line with UNISON objectives):
Extremely concerned.
Q 20C: Health related industries (e.g. tobacco)
Model Answer (in line with UNISON objectives):
Extremely concerned.
Q 20D: Defence related industries (e.g. weapons)
Model Answer (in line with UNISON objectives):
Extremely concerned.
Q 20E: Companies with operations in conflict-affected or sensitive regions (e.g. where there are concerns about human rights or international law)
Model Answer (in line with UNISON objectives):
Extremely concerned.
