EQT infrastructure: assessing investment portfolios to address and mitigate nature-related risks
We had no absolute path of where to go – an unusual way for us to work with a consultant. We appreciated the collaborative way of working, exploring together and shaping the work. - EQT Infrastructure
EQT, one of the world’s largest private equity investors, aims to deliver strong returns while supporting long-term sustainable growth. As part of this ambition, EQT sought to strengthen how it identifies and manages nature‑related risks across its infrastructure portfolio.
The Biodiversity Consultancy (TBC) was engaged to assess nature-related impacts and dependencies across the portfolio and to support engagement with portfolio companies most exposed to nature‑related risks. The focus was on helping portfolio companies understand and reduce material physical and transition risks associated with nature, in line with EQT’s active ownership and stewardship approach.
Our Approach
TBC carried out a portfolio‑wide screening using the ENCORE and SBTN materiality tools combined with company‑specific sustainability data provided by EQT. This enabled each portfolio company’s exposure to nature‑related risks to be scored and prioritised in a consistent and proportionate way.
The outputs included:
- A practical summary of actions across four key areas: location, operations, supply chain, and strategy and influence
- Concise fact sheets for each company outlining key nature‑related risks, impacts and recommended actions on themes most relevant to the portfolio
For the six companies identified as highest risk, TBC provided tailored guidance on priority risks and potential mitigation actions to support more targeted stewardship and engagement.
TBC also carried out in‑depth analysis for two companies using a proprietary, location‑specific biodiversity risk assessment tool. This identified site-level risks and aligned with the TNFD framework.
Outcome
EQT gained clear, practical insights into nature‑related risks across its infrastructure portfolio. The analysis combined market-recognised standards, portfolio data, and TBC’s experience working with comparable infrastructure assets, ensuring outputs were robust and usable in an investment context.
Findings were shared with portfolio companies through webinars, alongside real-world examples of how infrastructure companies are managing nature‑related risks. This helped build awareness and provided a clear basis for action across the portfolio.
