56% of global investors expect net-zero momentum to resume after U.S. leadership changes.
Investors cite policy inconsistency as a major barrier to decarbonization efforts.
European and Asia-Pacific investors remain more committed to climate investing than North American counterparts.
Robeco’s 5th Global Climate Investing Survey 2025 reveals that most institutional investors view Donald Trump’s fossil-fuel-forward energy agenda as a short-term disruption to long-term climate goals.
“A sobering reality: while many investors remain committed to climate goals, the overall prioritization of climate change in investment strategies is showing signs of decline, particularly at the global level,” said Lucian Peppelenbos, Climate and Biodiversity Strategist at Robeco.
Among the 300 global investors surveyed—managing a combined USD 31.2 trillion in assets—56% believe Trump’s stance will slow the transition to net zero, but anticipate recovery as U.S. leadership changes.
In the near term, 59% of respondents are pausing climate-exposed investments in the U.S. until the policy direction becomes clearer. As a result, 58% of European and 62% of Asia-Pacific investors plan to shift capital outside the U.S. into renewables, transitioning companies, and climate solutions.
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Policy Inconsistency Driving Investor Caution
The survey underscores a widening confidence gap in government support for net-zero goals. Investors say current policy frameworks lag behind their climate commitments, increasing uncertainty.
“Our role is to support clients—wherever they are on their sustainability journey—by aligning our investment strategies with their specific goals,” Peppelenbos added.
This concern varies by region:
41% of Asia-Pacific and 39% of North American investors see unsupportive economic policies as a major barrier.
In contrast, only 25% of European investors share this view, thanks to stronger legislative backing in the EU.
Regional Prioritization Shifts
Despite global headwinds, climate change remains central to investment strategy for 62% of European and 59% of Asia-Pacific investors. However, only 23% of North American investors now place climate at the core of their investment approach—a sharp divergence from prior years.
“Even amid uncertainty and shifting priorities, we remain steadfast in helping clients invest with clarity, resilience, and confidence,” said Peppelenbos.
Read the full survey here.
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