4 March 2025 – Natural capital: unlocking new opportunities

Online roundtable with Octopus Investments.

Only members with restricted access (ie. academics, asset owners, government and regulatory, independent advisers/trustees and sponsoring employers) can view this article. Please login or join to view.

...
...

With over half of global GDP dependent on natural systems, the link between nature and the economy is undeniable. But, as climate challenges mount, innovative approaches are needed to ensure stability and unlock new opportunities. 
 
This event explored how natural capital has the potential to offer environmental resilience and returns, positioning investors to be at the forefront of this vital shift. 
 
Be part of the conservation shaping the future of sustainable finance. 

Who was this event open to?

This event was open to asset owners such as pension fund trustees and in-house executives, independent investment advisers, investment consultants and government colleagues.

Speakers

Alex Godfrey, Natural Capital Investment Director, Octopus Investments

Alex joined Octopus in April 2024 as a seasoned professional in the field of natural capital, regenerative agriculture, and climate finance, with over 15 years of experience in investment banking and environmental consulting. 
 
Before joining Octopus, he was Head of Natural Capital at Savills. 
 
He holds an MSc in Global Energy and Climate Policy from SOAS University and a Harvard Negotiation Training certification. 

Craig Campbell, UK Head of RI, Aon

Craig leads Aon’s advice on all ESG-related strategic and implementation considerations, as well as speaking at conferences including Aon’s flagship annual pensions events and being named "Sustainability Actuary of the Year" at the 2021 Actuarial Post Awards. He has helped Aon’s largest clients develop their approach to climate reporting in line with the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures recommendations, and to then set and deliver on ESG-related priorities and objectives. With parents from the Seychelles and Scotland, Craig is a proud member of Aon's Multicultural Network and supporter of the Network's "Book Club", actively promoting diversity, equity and inclusion. 

Craig grew up in Kenya and in Scotland and has since settled in the Midlands with his wife and two boys. He is an Associate of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries and in his spare time is a keen runner, squash, and touch rugby player.

Host

Karen Shackleton, Chair and Founder, Pensions for Purpose

Karen has worked in the finance sector for over 30 years. As well as being Founder of Pensions for Purpose, she is Chair of the Strategic Investment Board for the Ministry of Justice and a Non-executive Director and Chair of the Board of Resonance Ltd, a social impact investment company. She sits on the Advisory Council of the Impact Investing Institute.

Karen also provides independent investment advice to the London Boroughs of Islington and Camden through Apex Group. She was the Chief Executive/Managing Director of AllenbridgeEpic Investment Advisers from 2010 to 2013. Prior to that, she had ten years’ experience as a fund manager and director for County NatWest and BZW Investment Management (now BlackRock).

Pensions for Purpose

Pensions for Purpose exists as a bridge between asset managers, pension funds and their professional advisers, to encourage the flow of capital towards impact investment. Our aim is to empower pension funds to seek positive impact opportunities and mitigate negative impact risks.

Our Community allows members to learn from leaders in the impact investment industry. We provide a trusted environment to interact, collaborate and share knowledge. Members engage in a programme of activity to shape their strategy in ESG, sustainable and impact investments.

For more information, please email the Membership Manager.