Chapter 9
Sustainable rating agencies
Introduction
In the aftermath of the financial crisis of 2007/8, the very nature of the financial system, along with its effectiveness, viability, and social utility was questioned (Walker et al. 2016, p. 17). A number of progressive responses were advanced, but one that has taken a particular hold is the concept of sustainable investing, or at least the ‘mainstreaming’ of a concept related to sustainable investing. The rate of development in this field of sustainable investment since the crisis has been rapid, with major coordinated efforts (like that of the UN-sponsored Principles for Responsible Investment initiative) seeking to advance the doctrine to the major parts of the financial arena. ...