SEVENTH ESG Finance Award Japan Celebrates Leaders in Sustainable Finance and Management

Celebrating Sustainability: The Seventh ESG Finance Award Japan

On February 16, 2024, the Ministry of the Environment in Japan hosted the seventh edition of the ESG Finance Award Japan, which honors financial institutions and corporations committed to sustainable finance and governance. This initiative, launched in 2019, aims to promote the expansion of ESG financial practices across Japan, sharing the achievements of outstanding contributors with the wider community.

Overview of the Award Ceremony

The seventh ESG Finance Award ceremony took place at the Ministry of the Environment, showcasing the efforts of various organizations in enhancing the sustainability landscape in Japan. The award ceremony included a range of categories that recognized financial institutions, asset managers, and companies implementing sustainable practices.

Award Winners

In total, the ceremony recognized several prominent players in the investment and finance sectors:

Minister of the Environment Award

- Gold: 7 winners
- Silver: 8 winners
- Bronze: 9 winners
- Special Awards: 4 winners
- Thematic Awards: 7 winners

Investor Category

- Gold: Robeco Japan (Asset Management Sector)
- Silver: Nippon Life Asset Management (Asset Management Sector)
- Bronze: Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance (Asset Owner Sector)
- Special Award: Japan Automobile Recycling Promotion Center (Asset Owner Sector)

Indirect Finance Category

- Gold: Shizuoka Bank, Mizuho Bank
- Silver: Higo Bank, Yokohama Bank
- Bronze: San-in Godo Bank
- Special Award: Fukui Bank/Fukui Bolt Corporation (Joint Award)

Fundraiser Category

- Gold: Sekisui Chemical
- Silver: Mitsubishi HC Capital
- Bronze: Central Japan Expressway
- Special Award: None

Financial Services Category

- Gold: Daiwa Securities (Securities Sector)
- Silver: Japan Credit Rating Agency (Evaluation and Information Sector)
- Bronze: Mizuho Securities (Securities Sector)
- Special Award: Sustainable Lab (Evaluation and Information Sector)

Thematic Awards in Finance Sector

- Net Zero Award: Ikeda Senshu Lease
- Nature Positive Award: Shiga Bank
- Circular Economy Award: Dai Nippon Printing

Sustainable Environment Enterprises Category

- Gold: Itochu Corporation, Sekisui House
- Silver: Kurita Water Industries, Daiwa House, Meiji Holdings
- Bronze: Osaka Gas, Konica Minolta, Skylark Holdings, TOPPAN Holdings, Mitsubishi Materials
- Special Award: Mitsui-Soko Holdings

Recipients' Contributions

The exhibitors were awarded based on their significant contributions to advancing ESG practices. For instance, Robeco Japan was recognized for its role in connecting Japanese and European investors while enhancing Japan's sustainable finance market. Their continuous improvements in corporate governance engagement and innovative sustainability assessment methodologies have set a benchmark in the industry.

Similarly, Shizuoka Bank received accolades for deepening its collaborations with local communities and industries, actively engaging in ESG promotion initiatives, and demonstrating significant long-term viewpoints in its business strategy. Mizuho Bank impressed judges with its multifaceted approach to corporate dialogue and its inclusive methods in tackling circular economy and natural capital issues.

In the area of sustainable technology, Sekisui Chemical has pursued funding for the promising perovskite solar cells, establishing strong investor dialogues that underlie its innovation-led approach.

Conclusion

The ESG Finance Award Japan continues to build momentum in recognizing and promoting sustainability and responsible financial management across sectors. As the ceremony shows, the commitment to ESG initiatives by various organizations is not just a trend but a crucial practice for future generations.

Overall, the entire event was a compelling reminder of the impact a dedicated approach to sustainable finance can have, with these exemplary organizations paving the way for a greener future in Japan and beyond.