Morgan Stanley

At a Glance

Industry

Financial Services and Insurance

Project Types

Data Analysis, Sustainability and Energy Management Strategy

Year

2021

Location

New York, NY

Summary

Vishrut Chatrath assisted in developing an ESG policy and implementing the ESG due diligence process for the U.S. commercial real estate private credit arm of MSIM.

Goals

 The goal of the Climate Corp Fellowship was to support the Head of Sustainability for Real Assets in progressing three critical strategic initiatives for the year:

  • Develop an ESG policy, stakeholder engagement approach, and due diligence process for the U.S. commercial real estate private credit fund arm of MSIM.
  • Quantify the stranded asset risks and evaluate the potential impact of EU legislation on real estate assets in Europe.
  • Create a comprehensive sustainability presentation to educate real estate professionals on climate change net-zero targets.

Solutions

Vishrut approached the challenge by using Climate Corp’s three phases methodology:

  • Research and initial analysis: In the first phase, Vishrut reviewed existing ESG policies. This step helped to understand the essential criteria of a robust policy and highlight the importance of supplementary documents, including an ESG due diligence checklist and investment committee template.
  • Detailed Analysis: Vishrut established a plan to develop the policy and supporting documents based on the insights above. He referenced industry best practices, including UNPRI guidelines.
  • Presenting Business Case: To engage key stakeholders, Vishrut prepared a presentation that walked through the rationale for establishing an ESG policy and implementing the questionnaire and checklists within the existing diligence process.

The Head of Sustainability for Real Assets provided support and guidance through the entire process to ensure that this initiative was successful. 

Potential Impact

Established an ESG policy and embedded ESG in the lender’s due diligence process, potentially creating the ability to promote borrowers/sponsors to pursue green building best practices and encourage peers to follow its lead.

 


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