Corporate nature risk perceptions

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Authors: Snorre Gjerde, Zacharias; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0780-6571 Sautner, Alexander F; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9796-8821 Wagner, Alexis Wegerich
Cited by: 10
References: 48

Abstract

We survey portfolio companies of a large asset owner to explore the evolving landscape of nature risks. Nearly half of all companies (48 percent) view nature risks as financially material, and 43 percent of those perceive nature-related physical risks, and 27 percent transition risks, as having financial effects already today. Three-quarters of companies experiencing nature-related investor engagement view these interactions as value-generating. Nonetheless, according to the respondents, investor attention remains limited in key respects: while 40 percent report that investors consider nature risks, fewer than 25 percent believe investors assess how these risks affect cashflows or costs of capital. Half of the respondents believe investors will prioritize climate over nature; however, many think both topics are so intertwined that they cannot be separated. Our findings underscore the growing recognition of nature risks as financially relevant, while also pointing to challenges and opportunities for their integration into financial analysis and investor engagement.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Corporate Social Responsibility Reporting Financial Markets and Investment Strategies Financial Reporting and Valuation Research

Publication details

Journal / source
Zurich Open Repository and Archive (University of Zurich)
Publisher
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Volume
30
Issue
1
Pages
11-42
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN