Allianz further integrates ecological and social responsibility into core business

The Allianz Group presented the most significant results and key figures for its environmental, social and governance performance in fiscal year 2017 in its 17th sustainability report.

The company leads the prestigious Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) as best in its sector, and is considered one of the world’s most sustainable insurance companies. A strong record in sustainability counts as a sign of strength for investors, attracts employees who want a socially engaged employer, and serves a growing market in sustainable financial products.

With investments of more than 5.6 billion euros in renewable energy, Allianz remains one of the most important investors in this field. Its portfolio includes 81 wind farms and seven solar farms in Europe and the USA. Its investments in certified green buildings have risen to more than 11 billion euros. In 2017, Allianz’s investment business achieved a milestone: They made it standard practice to include ecological, social and governance criteria, on top of financial considerations, in all insurance premium investment decisions. This so-called ESG Scoring is applied to all tradable assets. Allianz asset managers Allianz Global Investors and PIMCO also considerably expanded their related ESG approaches.

There was also progress within the insurance business. By investing US $ 96.6 million in the micro-insurance provider BIMA, Allianz is furthering its strategy of providing emerging consumers with affordable insurance services. Additionally, in 2017 Allianz offered more than 165 products with significant ecological or social value added, while generating some 1.2 billion euros in revenues.

Allianz’s sustainability activities aim to help build a low-carbon, socially stable society. This contributes to the sustainable development goals (SDGS) of the United Nations, which are widely accepted by international governments and civil society. “Climate change and economic instability are the biggest challenges of the coming decades,” said Allianz SE CEO Oliver Bate. “We have clearly defined our ambition: As a risk expert and an investor with a long-term orientation, we support the transition to a low-carbon economy, and our social projects strengthen disadvantaged young people all over the world.”

The group invested over 150 million euros for training and development for its employees in 2017. Supporting talented women in leadership positions is reflected in a ratio of more than 37 percent female managers. Employee satisfaction with corporate culture has risen to 72 out of a possible 100 points (Inclusive Meritocracy Index). Employees also rated their immediate work environment well: Healthsupporting factors, had improved from the prior year to 66 points (Work Well Index).

Within its citizenship activities, Allianz spent a total of some 20 million euros to assist numerous projects. For example, the second Allianz World Run raised 500,000 euros for the SOS Children’s Villages, and Allianz expanded its ‘Encouraging Future Generations’ programme, which includes supports startups that help disadvantaged children with innovative business ideas. In total, Allianz employees worldwide contributed 80,000 hours of voluntary work for good causes.

Environmental protection also increased within Allianz business operations. CO2 emissions per employee were down 17 percent from 2010, and building energy consumption decreased 29 percent. The company already derives 40 percent of its worldwide power consumed from renewable energy. Allianz’s sustainability activities also convinced its employees: 78 percent acknowledged, that their employer is active in environmental protection and social engagement.