Beirut Arab University (BAU) – Sustainable Investment Policy

Beirut Arab University (BAU) – Sustainable Investment Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Sustainable Investment Policy is to establish principles that guide the investment decisions of Beirut Arab University (BAU) in alignment with its mission to promote environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and long-term financial sustainability. This policy supports BAU’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and its participation in the QS Sustainability Rankings framework.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all investment portfolios managed by or on behalf of BAU, including:

• Endowment and reserve funds
• University-affiliated investment accounts
• Strategic investments made in research, infrastructure, and innovation

3. Guiding Principles

BAU’s investment strategy is founded on the following key principles:

Investment decisions will consider ESG factors, including but not limited to:

• Environmental impact (e.g., carbon footprint, pollution, renewable energy)
• Social responsibility (e.g., labor practices, community impact, human rights)
• Governance (e.g., board diversity, ethics, transparency)

BAU will avoid investments in companies or funds involved in:

• Fossil fuel extraction or coal-based energy
• Tobacco or firearms production
• Industries with proven environmental degradation or human rights violations

BAU seeks to support companies, funds, and projects that:

• Promote renewable energy, clean technology, and sustainable infrastructure
• Align with environmental education and green innovation
• Support underserved communities or environmental resilience

4. Strategic Objectives

• Ensure long-term financial health while minimizing environmental and social harm.
• Align investments with BAU’s climate action goals and carbon neutrality efforts.
• Enhance BAU’s performance and visibility in sustainability-based ranking frameworks such as QS Sustainability and THE Impact Rankings.

5. Implementation and Oversight

Sustainability Investment Committee (SIC):
A cross-functional committee comprising finance officers, faculty experts, student representatives, and sustainability officers shall oversee the implementation of this policy. Investment Reviews:
All investment managers will be required to report ESG metrics annually. Performance will be reviewed semi-annually by the SIC. Training and Capacity Building:
Investment personnel and committee members will receive regular training on ESG and sustainable finance.

6. Transparency and Reporting

BAU will publish an annual Sustainable Investment Report, which includes:

ESG performance of portfolios Progress on divestment (if applicable) Investments in sustainability-focused projects or funds

Reports will be made publicly available on the university’s website to ensure transparency and accountability.

7. Continuous Improvement

This policy will be reviewed and updated every two years or as needed to reflect emerging ESG trends, legal requirements, and stakeholder feedback.

Conclusion

This Sustainable Investment Policy reflects Beirut Arab University’s vision of being a socially responsible and environmentally conscious institution. By aligning its financial practices with its academic and sustainability goals, BAU strengthens its role as a leader in higher education and supports the global transition toward a sustainable future.