In 2023, the portfolio helped avoid 4.5 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent (CO2e) emissions and positively impacted 4.6 million people. The insurer has set ambitious goals to achieve 5 million annually in both categories.

The diverse portfolio spans green, social, and sustainability bonds, as well as private equity, infrastructure, and private debt projects. Zurich’s investments target critical areas, including renewable energy projects like solar and wind parks, affordable housing, and healthcare and education institutions.

Among its notable investments is a project managed by Summa in the NG Group, a waste processing and recycling company. In 2022, NG Group’s recycling activities contributed to avoiding approximately 12,000 tonnes of CO2e by prioritising material recycling over virgin resource extraction. NG Group also separates hazardous waste for proper treatment, promoting a circular economy and sustainable resource management.

“For us, impact investments are profitable opportunities that intentionally target measurable positive social or environmental outcomes,” said Mette Gahr, climate investment analyst at Zurich Insurance. “This recognition underscores the significance of our commitment to building a resilient future. We aim to drive impactful initiatives that support a just transition to a low-carbon economy.”

Zurich has also developed an impact measurement framework, incorporating an open-source methodology aligned with the Global Impact Investing Network’s (GIIN) principles. This framework ensures investments deliver intentional and measurable impacts while maintaining market-rate financial returns.

As Zurich continues to lead in sustainable investing, this recognition highlights its role as a pioneer in aligning profitability with purpose, setting a benchmark for the insurance industry to follow.