Tasplan has appointed Steven Sweeney to the new position of Manager of Responsible Investment.

The fund says it is committed towards sustainable investment practices that have a positive long-term impact on society and the environment, as well as excellent returns for members.

A Responsible Investment specialist with over 15 years’ experience gained across investment research, insurance and banking organisations both in Australia and overseas, Steven joins Tasplan with a strong understanding of environmental, social, governance (ESG) investing.

ESG investing, a term used interchangeably with socially responsible investing (SRI), is a best practice approach which considers industry-specific key issues such as climate change, human capital and labour management, gender diversity and data security when evaluating investment opportunities.

Chair of the Tasplan Board Naomi Edwards said Steven’s strong understanding of responsible investing and ESG investment factors would bolster Tasplan’s efforts to ensure funds not only perform well, but also make a positive impact on society.
“As the first Tasmanian super fund to become a signatory to the UN principles for responsible investing (UNPRI) in 2009, Tasplan has long been committed to ensuring sustainable investment best practice is followed,” Ms Edwards said.

“Understanding and staying abreast of ESG issues as they pertain to super funds has now become a vital component of managing an investment portfolio.

“As well as members increasingly wishing to see their super make a positive impact to society and the environment, ensuring investments are responsible and sustainable can also improve long-term fund performance and protect our members’ benefits into the future.”