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Net zero targets

A tailored net zero target for ABN AMRO Investment Solutions

Creating a net zero target is a challenge for any organisation, but the complexity grows when it's for a business within a business and the standard methodologies are simply not fit for the purpose. ABN AMRO Investment Solutions (AAIS) partnered with South Pole to develop a bespoke net zero methodology, ensuring a clear and effective corporate sustainability and ESG strategy for long-term climate action.

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Our role:

Our role:

  • Methodology development
  • Baseline measurement
  • Target setting
  • Target submission
  • Reporting framework development

In numbers:

2024

2024

annual climate report published.

50%

50%

CO2 emissions reduction goal by 2030 established.

1

1

net zero approach validated.

The challenge:

Defining a credible net zero pathway when the standard methodologies cannot be applied

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ABN Amro Investment Solutions (AAIS) is a specialist asset manager that partners with external investment managers to deliver a broad range of investment solutions.

Having committed to the Net Zero Asset Managers initiative (NZAMi) in October 2023, it needed to define a climate target and strategy to achieve it.

However, the standard net zero target-setting methodologies are not designed for sub-advisory business models like AAIS, where most assets under management are delegated to external managers. This creates a challenge for any sub-advisory business seeking to create a clear roadmap to achieve net zero.

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Creating a net zero model as unique as our client

AAIS partnered with South Pole, a climate consulting firm, to develop a bespoke net zero methodology aligned with its unique business model. The collaboration focused on building a solid foundation for AAIS's net zero journey, ensuring credibility and feasibility in environmental sustainability target setting and implementation.

Key steps:

  1. Custom methodology development. We designed a tailored net zero approach that accounted for AAIS's sub-advisory structure, enabling effective target-setting and accountability.
  2. Baseline calculation. We assisted AAIS in calculating its carbon intensity baseline performance, ensuring an accurate starting point for climate action.
  3. Target submission. We provided comprehensive documentation to support target approval with NZAMi and align with industry expectations.
  4. Tracking and reporting framework development. We developed a clear, user-friendly framework to monitor progress and report transparently on target achievements.

The outcome:

A clear and actionable net zero strategy

With South Pole's support, AAIS successfully established a credible net zero target and an actionable strategy to achieve it. The tailored methodology ensures that AAIS can effectively track progress and engage external managers in delivering on its climate commitments. See the AAIS 2024 Climate Report.

Key results include:

  • A validated net zero approach – A methodology tailored to AAIS's unique structure, ensuring a credible and effective transition to net zero.
  • Robust tracking and reporting – A structured framework to monitor and report on progress, providing transparency to stakeholders.
  • Long-term climate leadership – A strengthened position as a responsible asset manager, setting a precedent for climate action within sub-advisory investment models.

By addressing the challenges of its business model head-on, AAIS is now well-positioned to drive meaningful climate action and meet its net zero commitments with confidence.

Margot Seeley

South Pole provided invaluable guidance as we navigated the complexities of committing to the Net Zero Asset Manager Initiative.

As pioneers in establishing this framework for a sub-advisory business model, we faced unique challenges that required innovative solutions. South Pole's expertise helped us develop a transparent target that effectively leverages the specialized knowledge of our partner asset managers. Despite the demanding path, their collaborative approach enabled us to create an authentic sustainability framework tailored to our unique business model.

Margot Seeley Head of ESG, ABN AMRO Investment Solutions

Ready to set your net zero targets with confidence?
Souad Koliaï, Global Associate Director, Sustainable Finance
Ready to set your net zero targets with confidence?

Connect with South Pole today to build a science-backed roadmap for a sustainable future.

Learning and insights

Read more

The 2025 South Pole Net Zero Report

The 2025 South Pole Net Zero Report

The 2025 Net Zero Report focuses on financial institutions, how they are progressing on net zero targets and what they expect from portfolio companies. Download it now.

A Quick Guide to Climate Transition Plans

A Quick Guide to Climate Transition Plans

Download our 15-minute guide on climate transition plans. Discover how this blueprint for business transformation can drive resilience, innovation, and long-term value while meeting climate regulations.

A Quick Guide to Climate Risks

A Quick Guide to Climate Risks

Learn about climate risks, the main challenges to address them and how you can act now with the 10-minute ‘South Pole Quickguide’

Who we work with

Why South Pole?

Unique experience

With 18 years experience, we can help you navigate challenges and changes in the market.

Specialist expertise

Climate is not something we do, it's what we do.

Global presence

With offices and representations in over 30 countries, we think global and act local.

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