Matt Orsagh

Senior Advisor

Responsible Alpha

Matt Orsagh has been in the sustainability world for over 20 years. He was part of the original team that started GovernanceMetrics International (now part of MSCI), where he helped develop the first iterations of current ESG analysis. Matt spent the last 17 years at CFA Institute, pioneering ESG research and thought leadership, with an increasing focus on climate change, natural capital and degrowth. His report, "Climate Chang Analysis in the Investment Process," was named best global ESG paper by Savvy investor in 2020. Matt’s podcast "The Sustainability Story" has been named one of the top podcasts about corporate social responsibility. The podcast featured intimate conversations with thought leaders from the world of ESG integration and sustainability.

The debate over geoengineering is intensifying

March 15, 2023

by Matt Orsagh

Is geoengineering the answer to climate change, just part of the answer or dangerous science?
- Climate Tech
- Climate Change
Why sustainable investing in emerging markets makes sense

March 1, 2023

by Matt Orsagh

Asha Mehta, founder of investment firm Global Delta Capital, discusses the intersection of sustainable investing, ESG and emerging markets.
How green is your green bond?

February 8, 2023

by Matt Orsagh

With green bond growth projected strong for 2023, investors would do well to read the fine print.
- Green Finance
- Green Bonds
Climate stress tests for banks are coming. What will we find?

February 1, 2023

by Matt Orsagh

We should thank central banks for improving our understanding of climate change data. But they need to more faster and more forcefully to gather more rigorous and comparable data.
Nuclear fusion is a reality! Do not invest in nuclear fusion

January 12, 2023

by Matt Orsagh

Fusion is amazing science but will take decades to become a viable energy source, if it ever does.
Water recycling programs are on the rise

January 10, 2023

by Matt Orsagh

Water conservation and efficiency are critical but not sufficient in most situations to address water shortfalls and reliability challenges.
- Water Efficiency & Conservation
Christmas trees: Fun holiday tradition or selfish ritualized eco-terrorism?

December 21, 2022

by Matt Orsagh

Your Christmas tree is a product with an environmental footprint. Know the facts.
- Nature & Biodiversity
How are asset managers doing on net zero?

December 19, 2022

by Matt Orsagh

A few recent reports highlight the progress and lack of progress on net-zero targets.
The perverse fossil fuels incentives that lead bankers to hate their grandkids

December 7, 2022

by Matt Orsagh

Is a law, rule, subsidy, compensation package or other action incentivizing the kind of behavior a society needs for let’s say … long-term survival? If not, it may be time to scrap it.
- Finance & Investing
- ESG
Disappointed by COP27? You expected too much

November 23, 2022

by Matt Orsagh

Don’t expect a bunch of governments without a clear mandate to do anything revolutionary.