11 October 2019

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon highlighted Scotland’s role as a global leader in ethical finance at a summit in Edinburgh.

Speaking on the second day of Ethical Finance 2019, the First Minister emphasised the importance of a sustainable and ethical finance sector.

Addressing a global audience including representatives from New Zealand, Nigeria, Malaysia and the Americas, the First Minister said:

Climate change is the biggest environmental, economic and moral issue the world currently faces. And so every financial institution needs to see it as a priority.

After all, financial decisions – which projects the financial services industry choose to support – will be crucial in shaping the world’s response to climate change.

No ethical company can prioritise short-term returns, without thinking about the longer-term consequences.”

The First Minister also used the opportunity to officially open the new Green Investment Portfolio.

Announcing the launch of the Green investment programme at the #EthicalFinance2019, the @NicolaSturgeon said:

“#Scotland is determined to lead the transition to a net-zero carbon economy, and we have been clear that we must leave no-one behind."

Via https://t.co/NiQqAX46ak pic.twitter.com/FMDKYO0uB9

— Global Ethical Finance Initiative (GEFI) (@Finance4Change) October 11, 2019

The Green Investment Portfolio will give local authorities, developers and third sector organisations the opportunity to pitch for large scale investment to support projects reducing Scotland’s emissions in areas like renewables, waste, transport and the circular economy.

Projects helping Scotland transition to a net-zero economy can apply for a new green investment programme FM @NicolaSturgeon announced at today’s @Finance4Change conference 👉 https://t.co/5pJHOatlr3 #EthicalFinance2019 #scotclimateweek #ScotlandIsNow pic.twitter.com/pmM1ThI1bB

— First Minister (@ScotGovFM) October 9, 2019