Equator Principles and UNEP FI Release Joint Publication to Strengthen Nature Based Risk Assessment for Financial Institutions

The Equator Principles, in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI), has released a new publication to support Equator Principles Financial Institutions (EPFIs) in identifying, assessing and managing nature‑based risks in project-related finance, and also across broader financial activities.

Nature loss is increasingly recognised as a source of material financial risk. This publication underscores that managing nature‑based risks is an essential component of prudent risk management and not solely a matter of reputational risk or regulatory compliance.

The publication provides EPFIs with guidance on conducting nature‑based risk assessments at the project, portfolio and corporate levels, drawing on existing frameworks and tools. It does not introduce new requirements for EPFIs or project sponsors. Instead, it shows how existing approaches can be applied more consistently and used by corporate and portfolio teams to build a more integrated view of nature‑based risks.

This joint initiative reflects the shared commitment of the Equator Principles and UNEP FI to support financial institutions in responding to emerging environmental risks and advancing more robust, nature‑aware risk management practices across the sector.

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MEDIA CONTACTS:
EP Primary Contact: Courtenay Smith
Email: secretariat@equator-principles.com
Telephone: +44 7764 435 921