Helvetia outlines new climate strategy

Written by Michael Griffiths

30/06/2023

Helvetia has unveiled a new climate strategy with long-term goals and specific measures, which it is now implementing systematically.

The measures comprise its own carbon dioxide emissions, the insurance business and the investment business. In parallel to implementation, Helvetia stated it is continuously developing its climate strategy with interim targets and detailed implementation plans.

Specifying its goals in terms of mitigating climate change, Helvetia’s measures that have been decided include firstly the ongoing implementation of CO2-reduction measures in the company's own business activities with the aim of reaching net zero by 2040.

Secondly, Helvetia has defined an exit strategy for coal-related business activities and other exclusion criteria for business transactions related to oil and gas.

Furthermore, the insurer is setting a net zero target for indirect emissions from the investment and insurance business by 2050. Helvetia therefore sees itself as a supporter of the transition to a low-carbon economy and is aiming to seize business opportunities in the energy transition.

Calculated in terms of its workforce, Helvetia has reduced its carbon dioxide emissions by 48% since 2012, since 2018 has qualified as a carbon-neutral company, and the insurer is now stepping up the measures it has already launched. In parallel with the focus on its own business activities, Helvetia will also reduce its carbon footprint in the insurance business.

Group CEO of Helvetia, Philipp Gmür, said: “As an insurance company we take a long-term view and are committed to a sustainable future. At the same time we take the topic of energy security seriously and are therefore supporting the necessary transition to low-carbon energy with our climate strategy.”

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