AXIS to stop insuring, investing in thermal coal in push for low carbon future

Bermuda-based  AXIS Capital Holdings has updated its fossil fuel underwriting and investment policy related to thermal coal, oil sands and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, in a bid to support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

The re/insurer has bolstered its existing policy by committing to phasing out thermal coal business from its insurance, facultative reinsurance, and investment portfolios, ending all such activities no later than 2030 in OECD countries and the EU and 2040 globally.

The company has also included thermal coal developers within the scope of its policy, which continues to include provisions in support of renewable energy projects and companies that are transitioning business models away from thermal coal and oil sands. These measures are in addition to the previously announced restrictions on activities in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

Additionally, building on its commitment to renewable energy, the company is investing $20 million in BlackRock’s Climate Finance Partnership (CFP), a fund focused on climate-infrastructure investments in emerging markets.

"It is our belief at AXIS that the (re)insurance industry needs to move to the forefront of the efforts to transition to a low-carbon economy. Today’s actions reflect the determination and commitment of our team to contribute to positive environmental change,” said Albert Benchimol (pictured), AXIS President and CEO.

Conrad Brooks, general counsel of AXIS, added: “We are very proud to announce these enhancements but much work still remains. We’re committed to building on these actions and growing our efforts to help create a more sustainable future. We look forward to engaging with talent and collaborating with companies that share our beliefs and values.”

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