Industries

Europe, News, Policy | 11 December 2025

Financing the EU chemical sector transition: Opportunities to sustainably transform a hard-to-abate industry

UNEP FI and the European Banking Federation (EBF) have released a new policy brief to help financial institutions and other stakeholders understand how Europe’s chemical sector is developing within the region’s sustainable transformation, including key policies affecting the sector. The brief, “Transforming the EU Chemical Sector”, shares practical policy levers that can support the chemical industry’s sustainable transition and strengthen its investment case.

Chemical sector policy brief cover image

Climate Change, News, Policy | 28 November 2025

The COP30 mutirão decision and what it means for the global finance sector

As COP30 in Belém, Brazil drew to a close, Remco Fischer, Head of Climate for UNEP FI, and members of UNEP FI's Latin America and Caribbean-based team reflected on key outcomes from the climate negotiations, Brazil’s leadership, and private sector engagement on climate change these past two weeks—and have set out some of the implications for the global finance sector.

Banking, Climate Change, PRB Guidance, Principles for Responsible Banking, Publications | 20 November 2025

A Guide to Transition Plans for Banks: The path from targets to implementation

Transition planning is not only a regulatory or market-driven requirement—it is a core enabler of a bank’s portfolio composition, client engagement, and stakeholder and partnership strategies. In addition, transitioning planning helps banks respond to their climate, nature, human rights and healthy and inclusive economies commitments under the PRB. This report equips banks with the tools to embed sustainability into their core business models, enhance internal coordination, and proactively support the real economy’s transformation—delivering long-term value for both society and shareholders.

Report Cover: A guide to transition plans for banks; Image: Silhouette of bridge under clear sky; Parque das Nações, Lisbon, Portugal

Banking, News, Principles for Responsible Banking | 18 November 2025

How are banks translating sustainability commitments into measurable financial and operational advantages

On 6 November 2025, UNEP FI and MSCI Institute convened at the PRI in Person event in São Paulo. Joined by leaders from Harvard, Amundi, and Itaú, the panel discussion drew on MSCI’s analysis of PRB member banks, exploring the financial implications of sustainability commitments. The session presented a deep dive into how responsible banking correlates with stronger ESG performance and lower cost of capital, with broader relevance across sectors and investment strategies. In conclusion, responsible banking practices, when embedded and rigorous, were shown to deliver not just positive societal impact but tangible business value.