A new study from the University of Nottingham reveals that the UK’s top 10 asset managers, representing a combined £584 billion in assets, are failing to integrate public health considerations into their responsible investment strategies fully.
The research, backed by the Health Foundation, evaluated asset managers’ disclosures across 14 key public health themes, including antimicrobial resistance, nutrition, mental health, employment, and water pollution. While some firms reported on select issues, none consistently or comprehensively addressed all themes.
Only two asset managers identified health as a priority within their ESG frameworks. Of those, only one had a dedicated health policy, and that policy covered only two health-related areas. Issues such as air pollution, gambling, and obesity received limited or no reporting across the group.
The findings highlight significant gaps in how health risks associated with investment decisions are assessed and disclosed. Researchers argue that investor inaction in this space not only overlooks substantial public health impacts but also misses potential financial risks associated with harmful commercial activities.
The study calls for stronger accountability and more robust health-focused ESG integration to position public health as a material concern within investment risk frameworks. The full report is available online.
