Water is essential for all crop growth. On the land we manage in our diversified cropping portfolio, for certain crops we grow, we require irrigation to supplement rainfall. Conserving water through innovation benefits our tenants, crop managers, the environment and investors.
Engagement
/in-'gāj-mənt/ noun
Engaging with our farm operators, Nuveen strives for optimal water efficiency using a range of innovations, technologies and cooperative efforts. In 2014, the vineyard management team for affiliate Westchester Group Investment Management worked with the Napa Sanitation District to recycle treated wastewater for irrigation
Nuveen invested $2M in capital and property easements to develop a two-foot wide pipeline irrigating our properties and those of 30 to 40 other landowners in Los Carneros Water District. Reusing wastewater cut irrigation costs by up to 65 percent,2 improving the bottom line for local farmers, and is expected to reduce surface and groundwater consumption in the area by 75 percent.
Glossary: E-F
Engagement
A dialogue between an investor and an issuer focused on positively influencing corporate behavior on a variety of topics, including ESG issues.
Environmental, social and governance (ESG)
Typically refers to the factors and issues investors consider regarding a firm’s sustainable business practices.
► Environmental: A responsible investing factor dealing with climate impact, energy consumption, biodiversity, waste management and natural resource use.
Example: Waste management
Innovative packaging can reduce waste while also driving down material and transport costs.
► Social: A responsible investing factor dealing with employee engagement and development, labor relations, human rights practice, product safety and consumer protection.
Example: Health and safety
Effective health and safety programs can mitigate unexpected costs caused by workplace injuries, e.g., medical expenses, workplace disruption, productivity loss
► Governance: A responsible investing factor dealing with management structure, board accountability and independence, executive compensation, audits and internal controls and shareholder rights.
Example: Board diversity
A wide range of competencies, knowledge, and perspectives can lead to better decision-making and more effective corporate governance.
ESG integration
Considering material ESG factors within the investment decision making process.
ESG investing
Examining a company’s exposure to ESG-related risks and opportunities, focusing on the ones most likely to have a material impact on investment performance.
