Baku/Geneva, 14 November 2024—The United Nations-convened Forum for Insurance Transition to Net Zero (FIT) launched today the first-ever global guide on transition plans for insurance companies at the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Established last April, the FIT is a United Nations-led multistakeholder forum involving insurers, insurance regulators and supervisors, the scientific and academic community, civil society, and other key stakeholders to advance insurance strategies and practices that accelerate and scale up a just transition to a resilient net-zero economy. Chaired by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the FIT currently comprises close to 50 organisations from across the globe.
The FIT’s inaugural report, “Closing the Gap: The emerging global agenda of transition plans and the need for insurance-specific guidance”, is the first deliverable of the FIT Transition Plan Project. It assesses key features of insurers’ underwriting portfolios—across lines of insurance, the insurance value chain, and insurance actors involved—which need to be taken into account in transition planning, alongside relevant sustainability risks and opportunities. The report also articulates the insurance industry’s triple role as risk managers, risk carriers and investors in supporting a just transition to a resilient net-zero economy, including addressing the interconnected, climate-related sustainability issues of protecting nature and biodiversity and preventing pollution via a circular economy.
“The unprecedented global transition to a resilient net-zero economy requires insurance companies to adapt their business models and strategies to reduce risks, seize opportunities; and support economic, social and environmental sustainability. This requires a credible transition plan,” said Butch Bacani, UNEP Head of Insurance & FIT Chair, who launched the FIT’s inaugural report in Baku on COP29’s Finance Day. “The FIT’s inaugural report provides a first-of-its-kind global roadmap to ensure the development and delivery of credible insurance company transition plans that are fit for purpose—plans that turn climate ambition into climate action.”
The FIT report also outlines the existing typology of transition plans, the landscape of emerging policies and regulations relevant to transition plans, and the evolution of transition plan frameworks and guidance. A growing number of governments and insurance and financial regulators around the world are now requiring companies in the real economy and in the financial sector to disclose their climate-related impacts, risks and opportunities. In the European Union, the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) already mandate corporate transition plans, and a growing number of countries and jurisdictions will soon require the preparation and disclosure of corporate transition plans as well.
With a solid foundation set, the second deliverable of the FIT‘s Transition Plan Project will be to develop deep-dive guidance for underwriting portfolios to further support insurance companies in developing and disclosing credible transition plans. Thereafter, the FIT will produce the third and final deliverable of the project—transition plan guidance that provides a holistic, total balance sheet and organisation-wide view that covers and links the underwriting and investment portfolios of insurance companies.
Furthermore, the FIT is pleased to announce the first FIT Supporter—the Brazilian Insurance Confederation (CNseg). FIT Supporters represent a new category of key actors such as insurance associations and initiatives that can amplify the aims of the FIT across markets. CNseg has been a long-standing partner of UNEP, beginning with the launch of the UN Principles for Sustainable Insurance (PSI) in Rio de Janeiro during the 2012 UN Conference on Sustainable Development. CNseg joining the FIT is timely as Brazil will host the 2025 UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, a city in Brazil’s Amazon region.
“As we stand here at COP29 in Baku to launch the FIT’s inaugural report, we also look forward to COP30 in Belém, where we need to ensure that insurance continues to be a core part of the climate solution set,” said Bacani. We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with CNseg and invite other insurance associations worldwide to join the FIT and be part of the solution to achieve the net-zero transition. There is strength in numbers.”
Through the FIT, UNEP continues to deepen and strengthen its commitment to work with the global insurance industry and key stakeholders to support the acceleration and scaling up of a just transition to a resilient net-zero economy as part of the solution to the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature loss, and pollution; and the vision of a resilient, sustainable, and prosperous future for all.
Quotes from FIT organisations around the world:
“We greatly appreciate the UN Environment Programme’s (UNEP) leadership and the valuable ‘Closing the Gap’ report provided by the FIT, which will be helpful in guiding the efforts of the insurance industry. A.s.r.’s commitment to sustainable development and active engagement in the Transition Plan Working Group reflects our dedication to contributing to a resilient and sustainable future. We look forward to continuing our work with UNEP and other stakeholders to drive meaningful change in the insurance industry.” — Jos Baeten, CEO, a.s.r.
“Through transition plan guidance, insurers can enhance their strategic decision-making, align their operations with sustainability goals, and better prepare for regulatory changes. It also aids in fostering transparency and accountability, allowing insurers to communicate their efforts to stakeholders effectively. Ultimately, transition plans not only mitigate risks but also enables insurers to seize emerging opportunities in a low-carbon economy, ensuring long-term resilience and success.” — Bianca Tetteroo, Chair of the Executive Board, Achmea
“The insurance industry provides a critical role in supporting the financial resilience of communities and businesses around the world. As the urgency to address climate change intensifies, it is essential for transition plans to incorporate both climate mitigation and adaptation strategies. For insurers, it will also be crucial to explore ways to ensure they can offer affordable and accessible financial protection in the face of evolving climate conditions.” — Sean Carmody, Executive Director, Policy & Advice, Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA)
“Our industry has a key role in the transition to a net-zero economy but to successfully deliver we need to start with developing credible transition plans. At Aviva we’re proud to participate in the development of this report and look forward to seeing more plans being developed in line with today’s guidance.” — Claudine Blamey, Chief Sustainability Officer, Aviva
“As an insurance startup innovating on the methodological and financing challenges to mobilise capital towards the net-zero transition, CarbonPool is honoured to be involved in the work of UN Environment Programme’s FIT, as the most meaningful multistakeholder coalition, on bringing to bear the best of insurance industry thinking to help reach net zero and beyond. This guidance is a critical first step in framing that thinking.” — Coenraad Vrolijk, CEO & Co-Founder, CarbonPool
“This first deliverable of the United Nations’ new FIT Transition Plan Project is an important document that provides meaningful advice and best practices for the insurance industry. All insurers should have a transition plan. This new FIT document provides clear direction to the industry at a crossroads around the world.” — Steven Rothstein, Managing Director, Ceres Accelerator for Sustainable Capital Markets
“CNP Assurances welcomes the launch of this guide on transition plans for insurers. As a founding participant in the FIT, we encourage the emergence of market practices aimed at a just transition towards an inclusive and sustainable society, in line with our raison d’être.” — Marie-Aude Thépaut, CEO, CNP Assurances
“CNseg expects productive technical exchanges with FIT organisations in search of global solutions to realize the potential of insurance as an available and effective means of implementation of mitigation and adaptation strategies, which we believe shall result from a renewal of public-private relations.” — Dyogo Oliveira, President, Brazilian Insurance Confederation (CNseg)
“As a responsible insurer, our duty is to participate in the common effort to move towards a less carbon-intensive economy. This means sharing best practices and taking concrete action in our areas of influence within the value chain, particularly in claims management, but also by working to adapt to climate change.“ —
Guillaume Oreckin, Deputy CEO, Crédit Agricole Assurances
“EIOPA welcomes the first FIT publication on insurance-specific guidance for transition plans. Given its important role as long-term investor and societal risk manager, the insurance sector plays a pivotal role in supporting the transition to a carbon-neutral economy. While the focus of insurance supervisors will naturally remain on the financial risks arising from the transition, sound forward-looking risks assessments require a thorough understanding of the underlying sustainability commitments, targets and actions embedded in undertakings’ transition plans, which will benefit from the work of the FIT.” — Petra Hielkema, Chairperson, European Insurance & Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA)
“As a founding FIT Participant, FATUM Schadeverzekering N.V. proudly supports the UN’s ‘Forum for Insurance Transition to Net Zero’ initiative. For over a century, FATUM has been committed to safeguarding the resilience and progress of Surinamese families and businesses. In joining FIT, we reinforce our dedication to sustainable solutions that align with Suriname’s unique needs, driving forward responsible practices that support both our community and a net-zero future. Together, we strive to contribute meaningfully to a resilient world for generations to come.” — Manoj Parsan, CEO, FATUM
“Insurers who define and implement an appropriate transition plan align their business activities to answer the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature loss and pollution while reshaping insurance offerings to close protection gaps. The UN Forum for Insurance Transition to Net Zero provides the perfect platform for us to bring this holistic approach to the global stage, fostering sustainable outcomes across the insurance industry.” — Rogério Henriques, CEO, Fidelidade
“The inaugural report from the FIT demonstrates the crucial value that the forum can provide in convening the insurance industry. Ensuring progress on transition is critically important for us to reach a net-zero economy and to progress The Fidelis Partnership’s own net-zero commitment. This new report bridges a major gap in sector-specific guidance to support that progress.” — Charlie Mathias, Deputy Chairman, The Fidelis Partnership
“The UN Forum for Insurance Transition to Net Zero (FIT) presents a visionary approach for the global insurance industry to address the pressing challenges of climate change. In Ghana, where the impacts of climate change are acutely felt across agriculture, infrastructure, and livelihoods, the insurance industry has a vital role in building resilience and protecting policyholders. This report highlights how transition plans can be used globally including in developing countries to drive innovative solutions that reduce climate risk and strengthen community resilience. We are proud to support this shared vision for a sustainable future, tailored to the unique needs of our communities.” — Michael Kofi Andoh, Acting Commissioner of Insurance, National Insurance Commission, Ghana
“The insurance sector plays a crucial societal role enabling effective management of risks. Yet amid ever-expanding risks and costly impacts of climate change, the sector itself is on a path toward existential peril marked by retreat from increasingly vulnerable markets. For the insurance sector and societies to thrive, it is imperative for insurers to align with a just transition to net-zero emissions. This timely global guide and roadmap bridge lingering gaps to enable smart insurance sector transition planning without further delay.” — Sue Reid, Climate Finance Advisor to Christiana Figueres, Global Optimism
“The UN Forum for Insurance Transition outlines here a forward-thinking path for the insurance industry to adapt to the realities of climate change. The insurance industry and insurance regulators have a significant role to play in driving solutions to reduce the risk of climate change and protect policyholders, and we welcome the opportunity to participate in this effort. While the political realities of the Forum’s diverse international members may differ, this report outlines a shared future that critically emphasizes the resilience of both policyholders and insurance carriers.” — Ann Gillespie, Director, Illinois Department of Insurance
“With insurers holding a pivotal role in financing the transition and managing climate-related risks, it is essential that their path to decarbonization is both robust and actionable. At the Institut Louis Bachelier, we are committed to supporting research and knowledge-sharing that empowers insurers to align their operations with global climate goals. This report provides guidance for the insurance industry to take meaningful steps toward a resilient, low-carbon economy, and we look forward to continued collaboration within the Forum to drive these ambitions forward.” — Jean-Michel Beacco, CEO of Institut Louis Bachelier
“The launch of the FIT’s inaugural report marks a significant milestone in our journey towards sustainability. We are proud to support this initiative and contribute to the development of robust transition plans for the insurance industry.” — Arnaud Vaissié, Co-Founder, Chairman & CEO, International SOS (parent company of Odeon Insurance)
“The UN Forum for Insurance Transition to Net Zero’s (FIT) co-created guide is timely. Credible transition plans are foundational for climate risk resilience. They also help translate insurers’ strategic plans into concrete and actionable solutions to facilitate changes in the real economy that will be needed in the global transition to net zero.” — Daniel Wang, Executive Director (Insurance), Monetary Authority of Singapore
“NamibRe’s commitment to sustainable insurance is not just about minimizing risk; it’s about ensuring that every decision we make today safeguards the future. By being a founding participant in the UN’s Forum for Insurance Transition to Net Zero we are not only protecting our clients and communities but also contributing to a resilient world where growth and responsibility go hand in hand.” — Patty Karuaihe-Martin, Managing Director, NamibRe
“The FIT rightly centres on (re)insurance services. It recognises their major impact on climate when they are granted to the most-emitting activities. Considering this, insurers’ transition plans should rule out coverage for new fossil fuel projects and their developers.” — Lucie Pinson, Founder & Executive Director, Reclaim Finance
“Singlife commends the UN Environment Programme on this timely guide. As the first insurer from Asia to join FIT, and a signatory to the Principles for Responsible Investment and Principles for Sustainable Insurance, we strongly support frameworks to transition the insurance industry towards net zero and which help put words into action.” — Pearlyn Phau, Group CEO, Singapore Life
“As a founding FIT Participant, our reinsurance captive is dedicated to driving the transition to a net-zero future. Captives can play a key role in the climate solution set, providing innovative risk management and financial resilience. We encourage other captives to join the UN Forum for Insurance Transition to Net Zero.” —
Olivier Catherine, Chairman of the Board, Sonepar International Re SA
“Insurers need to adopt net-zero transition plans for both the investing and underwriting sides of their business. The UN Forum on Insurance Transition to Net Zero (FIT) report on transition planning for insurance underwriting activities is a very important and necessary first step toward the development of a gold standard insurance underwriting transition planning framework and guidance, building on the experience of and input from leading insurers who have already undertaken underwriting transition plans, insurance regulators, civil society, and the academic and scientific community.” — Dave Jones, former California Insurance Commissioner & Director, Climate Risk Initiative, University of California Berkeley School of Law
“I am pleased to have positioned the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner as a founding member of the FIT Consultative Group of Insurance Regulators and Supervisors earlier this year. I am impressed by the FIT’s substantial progress on its work agenda and rapid growth since then. The FIT’s immediate relevance as a global force for insurance industry action on climate change underscores the importance of this new initiative. Throughout my 24-year tenure as an insurance regulator, climate change has been among my highest priorities. I know that the FIT will be an important vehicle going forward to help the global insurance industry take on climate change.” — Mike Kreidler, Insurance Commissioner, Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner
“Transition planning is essential to set the right level of ambition and create convergent expectations for an orderly transition. At the same time implementing priority actions needs to happen right away. Planning should not delay action.” —Amandine Favier, Head of Sustainable Finance, WWF-Switzerland