Celebrating Earth Day

First adopted in 1970 in the U.S. following the realization that the country was one of the most polluted in the world, Earth Day – a day that we use to demonstrate our support for protection of our natural environment – has since been celebrated in most countries worldwide. No matter the language or culture – Earth Day is universally recognized. 

State Street understands the importance of our planet and considers our responsibility to sustainability to be twofold. First, sustainability is the only way we can enable a prosperous future for our company and our communities. We continue to set a high standard with regard to our global targets and ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, as we know and understand that our future and the future of our clients is tied to the health and wellbeing of our planet. 

Secondly, taking a longer, historic view, the legacy of corporations, particularly in the industrial world, has at times been one of profits at the cost of the environment. However, as long-term investors, we recognize that profits are at their most sustainable when the negative impacts of producing them are managed carefully. As a leader in sustainability, we proudly join other corporations who are innovating for sustainability as we work to change the trajectory of our shared past to protect our collective future. We do this in three ways, as part of our larger Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework.

1. As an asset manager, and a major investor in thousands of global companies, we engage on ESG issues that drive long-term value through our asset stewardship practices. 
2. As an asset servicer, we enable asset owners and asset managers to become more effective in their understanding and usage of ESG as an investment and business lever. 
3. And as a global corporation, we have an ESG strategy against which we execute a range of operational initiatives to achieve our own ESG goals. 

Environmental issues have become a topic of division and discord, perhaps especially in the U.S. Yet, at their core, the “E” in ESG is how we will protect the things that we all have in common – our home, our future, and our ability to leave a better world for those who come after us. 

Our shared and irreplaceable planet requires the protection and education of all of us. I wish you a happy and thoughtful Earth Day this weekend.