Move the Money guide for financial institutions

1. Calculate and compile your investments in – and financing of – oil, coal, and gas. This will help you understand where you have your biggest potential to move your money.



2. Create a realistic transition plan with concrete deadlines and targets. This will send an important signal to potential investors, and will help you keep those investors that would otherwise have moved their money to more sustainable funds. If you can’t get out of some of these investments immediately, don’t worry. Most investors will understand that it will take some time to make the transition in an orderly manner.



3. Develop an investment policy that explicitly states a zero-tolerance stance on new fossil fuel investments. Make sure that the policy also excludes all companies involved in expanding the extraction of oil, coal, or gas. The policy should clarify that any funds divested from fossil fuels are to be reinvested in sustainable, green solutions.



If you're unsure about the criteria for an effective policy, consider reaching out to other financial institutions that have already divested in the same market where you operate. Often, they are willing to offer assistance, even to competitors. Collaboration is crucial in addressing the climate crisis. Additionally, good policy examples can frequently be found on various websites. Allow yourself to be inspired and adopt best practices with pride!

4. Join coalitions with other financial institutions that are working for the climate. A few general examples: Net-Zero Banking Alliance. the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANDZ), Science-Based Targets, Exponential Roadmap Initiative and The UN Race To Zero Initiative (via SME Climate Hub if you are a small or medium sized company). Pick those that are relevant for your own operations.



5. Communicate if you have joined coalitions and publish your new policy, both internally and externally. Explain why it is important to Move the Money, and share ideas on how to do it.