Why We Shouldn’t ‘Just Quit’ Coal.

Sound Progress - A podcast by AXA IM

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Coal is the largest source of electricity generation worldwide and the largest single source of CO2 emissions. Transitioning to a low-carbon economy is both urgent and crucial to meet the Paris Agreement goals. We know that renewable energy from solar and wind is now economical to produce, so why are new coal mines being given the go ahead and new coal fired power stations still being commissioned when the IEA has explicitly called for No New Coal? Alongside the environmental factors, are there social issues that are making it difficult to make the transition away from this legacy fuel? Or is it legacy infrastructure that is the problem in satisfying the intense energy needs of hard to abate sectors such as steel and cement production? What are the alternatives? Are we ready for alternative fuels such as green hydrogen or a pivot away from heat to green chemistry innovations? This episode will give AXA IM experts a chance to discuss its role in engaging with companies to be more ambitious in their targets and navigate future clean energy investment challenges and opportunities. And why we don’t just divest. Olivier references AXA IM’s Coal Policy in this episode, for the full details, please see our Climate Risks policy on our corporate website. Our host, Herschel Pant, speaks to Tim Gould, Chief Energy Economist at the International Energy Agency, and Olivier Eugène, Head of Climate and ESG Research at AXA IM as well as Mark Gilligan, Head of Infrastructure of AXA IM Alts. Music performed by Sum Wave, composed by Niclas Gustavsson This marketing communication does not constitute on the part of AXA Investment Managers a solicitation or investment, legal or tax advice. This material does not contain sufficient information to support an investment decision. It has been established on the basis of data, projections, forecasts, anticipations and hypothesis which are subjective. Its analysis and conclusions are the expression of an opinion, based on available data at a specific date. All information in this document is established on data made public by official providers of economic and market statistics. AXA Investment Managers disclaims any and all liability relating to a decision based on or for reliance on this document. All exhibits included in this document, unless stated otherwise, are as of the publication date of this document. Furthermore, due to the subjective nature of these opinions and analysis, these data, projections, forecasts, anticipations, hypothesis, etc. are not necessary used or followed by AXA IM’s portfolio management teams or its affiliates, who may act based on their own opinions. Any reproduction of this information, in whole or in part is, unless otherwise authorised by AXA IM, prohibited. Past performance is not a guide to current or future performance, and any performance or return data displayed does not take into account commissions and costs incurred when issuing or redeeming units. References to league tables and awards are not an indicator of future performance or places in league tables or awards and should not be construed as an endorsement of any AXA IM company or their products or services. Please refer to the websites of the sponsors/issuers for information regarding the criteria on which the awards/ratings are based. The value of investments, and the income from them, can fall as well as rise and investors may not get back the amount originally invested. Exchange-rate fluctuations may also affect the value of their investment.  Due to this and the initial charge that is usually made, an investment is not usually suitable as a short term holding. Issued in the UK by AXA Investment Managers UK Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK. Registered in England and Wales No: 01431068. Registered Office: 22 Bishopsgate London EC2N 4BQ. In other jurisdictions, this document is issued by AXA Investment Managers SA’s affiliates in those countries.