A CULTURE OF COMPASSION

As investors, we are hard-wired to envision the long term, and we must uphold responsible stewardship of investments. Likewise, our investment affiliates have deep appreciation for how Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors can contribute to the long-term health of businesses and the markets.

Over the past several years, Legg Mason, at the corporate level, has set out to both increase our efficiency in operations and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We run our business more effectively and have a positive impact on the environment.

The field of sustainable investing is rapidly evolving. The emphasis now is on actively finding companies with quality attributes — environmental and product safety, workforce diversity, employee retention and strong corporate governance — that can positively impact future shareholder value.

At ClearBridge Investments, all companies considered for investment are given an ESG rating which is updated annually. Likewise, at Martin Currie, governance and sustainability considerations are fully integrated into the investment process.

Eight of Legg Mason’s affiliates including Brandywine Global, Clarion Partners, ClearBridge Investments, EnTrustPermal, Martin Currie, RARE Infrastructure, Royce & Associates and Western Asset are all signatories to the Principals for Responsible Investment, reflecting the importance of that commitment.

Legg Mason benchmarks its efforts against standards set by leading ESG organizations.

In partnership with sustainability advocate Ceres, we ensure that our stakeholders stay fully aware of our sustainability efforts. Our ongoing engagement and reporting keeps our purpose alive and encourages diverse perspectives on our progress. Carbon Disclosure Project: in recognition of our energy-use reporting, Legg Mason received an A level rating in 2016 for its commitment to climate disclosure and overall climate performance. We have been reporting to CDP since 2008. 

Corporate Social Responsibility Report

We provide our many stakeholders with a clear, comprehensive update on the programs and activities we offer in all areas of sustainability.

Leadership in Energy Efficiency & Design (LEED) Certification

Our corporate headquarters in Baltimore has obtained LEED gold certification for the space it occupies in Harbor East.

Environmental Sustainability Council

In conjunction with our Corporate Citizen team and led by Investor Relations, our group focuses on education, and in conjunction with our Corporate Social Responsibility team and led by our Head of Investor Relations, this group focuses on education and awareness, operations and efficiency, carbon reporting and data collection. With the CFO’s executive sponsorship, engagement and support, our ESG initiatives continue to expand across the firm.

Environmental Volunteerism

We celebrate Earth Week each year with a variety of community beautification and clean-up activities. Our Environmental Sustainability Council sponsors an Oyster Garden initiative that promotes the growth of Chesapeake Bay’s declining oyster population.

Global Efforts

Delivering outstanding results, our London office has implemented various progressive environmental programs, including a wildlife roof and zero landfill waste. Two of our global affiliates, Martin Currie and RARE, also demonstrate their commitment to the environment through their ESG initiatives, as well as through volunteerism and community initiatives.