Offsetting and corporate claims to be carbon neutral have been a distraction. The genuine leadership of companies as a force for good will entail working towards decarbonising business models and the framing of objectives in terms of zero carbon and carbon positive.

It has become imperative for business to demonstrate greater social participation and create value in the communities where they operate. But the growing availability of corporate capital for social development has not necessarily resulted in funds finding an effective home. Money often flows to the best-known development programmes or is directed through governments or aid agencies with their own development agendas. This leaves under-developed and under-resourced initiatives, working on the ground to effect change, without access to capital markets. And while corporate philanthropy plays a vital role in the development of communities, is not enough to lift people out of poverty and address South Africa’s historic imbalances. The SA Social Investment Exchange (SASIX) is an innovative platform providing a range of high-impact social investment opportunities from grants to financial investments in responsible initiatives that offer market-related financial returns. This, together...

While companies and consumers are becoming more aware of their social responsibilities, South Africa still faces huge, un-met challenges. And although philanthropy plays a vital role in the development of communities, is not enough to bring an end to poverty. GreaterGood South Africa, through its SA Social Investment Exchange (SASIX), is pioneering new ways of giving people and communities access to the capital they need to lift themselves out of poverty.

The London Accord is a unique collaboration between investment banks, research houses, academics and NGOs. The London Accord has produced the first ‘open source’ research resource for investors in climate change solutions. This executive summary gives an overview to The London Accord itself. For more information go to www.london-accord.co.uk

This briefing assesses the potential to create 'green jobs' through significant public investment in green technology and infrastructure as a key component of stimulus packages - in contrast with the impact of investment in 'brown' jobs or tax cuts.