Knowledge and Insight

From grid constraints and renewable energy growth to the challenge of tackling PFAS pollution, this month's sustainability update examines several of the environmental issues attracting attention from policymakers, businesses and investors.

Global markets delivered a strong rebound in Q2 2026, driven by the ongoing AI investment cycle, resilient economic conditions and improving sentiment across major regions. Against this backdrop, investors continued to balance opportunities created by technological innovation with the risks posed by geopolitical uncertainty and environmental change.

Exploring the intersection of sustainable finance, climate action, technology governance and environmental protection, recent developments in corporate disclosure, net zero transition planning, AI regulation and deforestation highlight the evolving challenges and opportunities shaping long-term sustainability outcomes.

Greenbank recently organised a visit to the Grange wind farm in the Fens of East Anglia, investment analyst Will Findlay-Wilson reflects on observations from the site and sets out some of the key considerations in onshore wind generation.

Many companies remain unprepared for the EU Deforestation Regulation, according to a recent report, despite repeated delays giving businesses additional time to adapt. The findings highlight persistent challenges around compliance, resourcing and supply chain transparency ahead of the regulation’s phased implementation.

Congratulations to Greenbank on its success at the 2026 Citywealth Magic Circle Awards, where it was named Impact/Sustainability Investment Management Company of the Year, with Jonny Moon also awarded a Future Icon Award.

Exploring the intersection of climate risk, environmental protection and social resilience, new evidence points to mounting threats to the Gulf Stream, gaps in marine conservation, emerging pay gap reporting requirements, and continued declines in global freedoms, underscoring why these trends matter for long‑term outcomes.

Our annual engagement review provides an opportunity to reflect on the past year and share the impact our engagement has helped create, as well as to outline our focus areas as we continue our work in 2026.

CIWF marked the launch of its Strategic Plan 2026–2030 with an event for donors and supporters, exploring the charity’s mission, ethos and ambitious goal to help end factory farming by 2040, and the role of collaboration in delivering lasting change.

Q1 2026 saw global markets unsettled by geopolitical conflict, surging energy prices and renewed inflation risks, fragmenting performance across regions and sectors while sharpening focus on energy security and the transition to renewables.

Climate tipping points challenge assumptions of gradual, predictable change. Drawing on emerging Earth system science, this research explores how both negative and positive tipping points reshape risks and opportunities for long‑term investors, with implications for portfolio resilience, capital allocation and stewardship.

Analysis shows that the UK’s net zero transition is economically viable, with falling renewable energy costs, improved efficiency and reduced exposure to fossil fuel price shocks strengthening the case for a fully electrified energy system.