11.23.2005 ET

(CSRwire) Institutional investors could face negligence claims unless they incorporate environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) considerations into their investment decision making, according to a new report produced by Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer for the UN*.

The findings have huge ramifications for the investment industry, corporate community and policy makers. In briefings held across the world on Wednesday, November 30, 2005, leading experts from the UN, Calvert, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, Harvard Medical School's Center for Health and the Global Environment, and Acquity Asset Management will highlight the implications of the study.

The Freshfields report overturns the long-standing view that investment managers' fiduciary duties are incompatible with ESG considerations, and highlights the links between ESG issues and financial performance. The accelerating threats arising from climate change highlight the timeliness of the report. Weather and natural disaster related economic losses are already approaching the US$150bn
a year mark.

Join us for a panel discussion on Wednesday, November 30 at 8:30 am. Breakfast will be served.

Venue:
Le Parker Meridian Hotel
118 West 57th Street
New York City, New York 10019
Lorica Room


Panelists include:

Dr. Julie Fox Gorte
VP, Chief Social Investment Strategist
Calvert

Hilary French
Special Advisor
UNEP Major Groups & Stakeholders Branch

Paul R, Epstein M.D., M.P.H.
Associate Director
Center for Health and the Global Environment
Harvard Medical School

Ian Ihnatowycz
CEO
Acuity Asset Management

*The report was commissioned for the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initative (UNEP FI), a global partnership between the UNEP and the private financial sector.

To reserve a space, please contact:

Racine Tucker Hamilton (invites/logistics)
Tel: 301-922-8417
Email: rthmedia@comcast.net

Annette Bronkesh (invites)
Tel: 973-778-8648
Email: annettec@att.net

For more information please contact: