Shaping the future of sustainable finance
Subscribe to our NewsletterThe Institute for Sustainable Finance is a multi-disciplinary network of research and professional development that brings together academia, the private sector, and government to shape Canada’s innovations in sustainable finance.
ISF Research Fellows Program
Bridging the gap between the finance sector and academia
The ISF Research Fellows Program exists to foster collaboration between leading academics and industry experts. ISF’s Research Fellows generate practical, real-world solutions to achieve sustainable economic growth, influence global finance, and ensure that financial institutions are prepared for the challenges and opportunities of a low-carbon future.
ISF Analysis: Canadian Competition, Aussie Rules
Canada’s anti-greenwashing amendments to the Competition Act have caused confusion in the marketplace and litigation risk for firms. Australia’s approach could be a model for effective reforms to fight deceptive marketing, reduce litigation risk and support investment in climate action
Canadian Corporate Performance on GHG Emissions, Disclosures and Target Setting: Fourth Edition
ISF has once again taken the pulse of climate commitments among S&P/TSX Composite Index companies, analyzing trends revealed by their GHG disclosures and net-zero targets. This year’s study is a critical resource for investors and public- and private-sector leaders alike.
Bill C-59: Government intentions vs. market reactions
There have been significant ripple effects from Canada’s new greenwashing legislation. ISF’s Briefing Note analyses the policy’s intent, industry responses, and recommendations to strengthen consumer protection while supporting credible corporate sustainability reporting.
What is Sustainable Finance?
The Canadian Expert Panel on Sustainable Finance defines it as: capital flows, risk management activities, and financial processes that assimilate environmental and social factors as a means of promoting sustainable economic growth and the long-term sustainability of the financial system.
In its simplest form, this means aligning our financial systems and services to promote long-term environmental sustainability and economic prosperity. Learn more about Sustainable Finance through our Primer Series.
Ryan Riordan, Former Director of Research, Institute for Sustainable Finance
Newsblog
November 4, 2025
Federal budget announces key policies to guide climate investments
With today’s Budget, Canada’s federal government has announced the launch or resumption of key policies and programs that will continue to build Canada’s sustainable finance infrastructure and move the country in the right direction to compete for global climate capital.
October 31, 2025
Australian example can help Canada fight greenwashing without chilling climate investment
Canada’s anti-greenwashing amendments to the Competition Act have caused confusion in the marketplace and litigation risk for firms. A new Analysis from the Institute for Sustainable Finance shows how Australia’s approach could be a model for effective reforms to fight deceptive marketing, reduce litigation risk and support investment in climate action.