Annual Impact Report
In 2024, the rise of AI and ongoing geopolitical conflicts heightened the need for sustainable solutions to environmental and social challenges.
Companies are innovating, from datacenter cooling to financial inclusion and healthcare advances. Our impact investing framework seeks to identify and support these leaders, driving positive change while navigating evolving ESG debates.
- Introduction
- Impact Goals and Case Studies
- Impact Outcomes
- Read Full Annual Report
- Thematic Insights
Introduction: 2024 Annual Impact Report
We're really excited to present to you our 2024 Global Impact Equity Annual Report.
2024 saw two themes really dominate markets, the rise of the prominence of artificial intelligence and unfortunately, geopolitical strife.
We believe that impact investing goes a long way towards solving for the sustainability challenges.
For instance, companies that help data centers cool their operations down, bringing greenhouse gases down and reducing the risk of global warming.
On the social front, companies that promote financial inclusion in underserved communities are ones we continue to remain very excited about over many years.
These companies, in our view, have tailwinds attached to their business model that should last for many years to come.
Our 2024 Annual report attempts to measure the impact from our portfolio companies by presenting case studies and key performance indicators.
We hope you enjoy our annual report.
In this video, Hari Balkrishna, Portfolio Manager at T. Rowe Price, offers a brief introduction to the 2024 Annual Impact Report.
2024 saw two themes really dominate markets, the rise of the prominence of artificial intelligence, and unfortunately geopolitical strife.
Our 2024 annual report attempts to measure the impact from our portfolio companies by presenting case studies and key performance indicators.
Impact goals and case studies
Our easy-to-use Global Impact Equity Portfolio Tool gives you the ability to see exactly what companies we invest in and how they fit into our impact investment framework. Our select company case studies provide deeper insights on the rationale for their inclusion from both an impact and financial perspective.
All of the companies within the portfolio sit under our impact pillars and impact sub pillars.
Select a sub pillar below to view companies and their case studies.
Climate and Resource Impact Pillar
Reducing Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)
Aimed at decreasing greenhouse gas emissions through renewable energy generation, energy efficiency, and supporting technologies that facilitate decarbonisation.
Nurturing Circular Economies
Promotes waste reduction and materials reuse, aiming for economies that minimize waste and maximise resource use.
Promoting Healthy Ecosystems
Focuses on biodiversity, conservation, sustainable agriculture, and natural resource preservation aiming to restore ecosystems and promote sustainability.
Social Equity and Quality of Life
Improving Health
Focuses on companies advancing healthcare delivery, developing treatments, and improving affordability and access for better health outcomes.
Enabling Social Equity
Promotes equality and inclusiveness by providing services to underserved communities, enhancing education access, and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Enhancing Quality of Life
Investments improve living standards via access to essential services like safety and cybersecurity, enhancing life quality in disadvantaged areas.
Pillars and sub-pillar are proprietary to T. Rowe Price and were developed for the purpose of aligning portfolio holdings according to the impact being delivered. Data shown for T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. Figures may not total due to rounding.
Note: Effective 1 April 2025, we removed the third pillar, Sustainable Innovation and Productivity, from our impact framework. This decision was driven by several factors: (1) the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar became redundant, as securities within the pillar report against impact objectives that fit within the other pillars; (2) adopting a two-pillar model aligns with regulatory developments in some countries related to impact measurement and reporting; and (3) simplifying to a two-pillar model enhances clarity for our clients. As part of this change and to enhance clarity around our framework, we also changed the "Enhancing Quality of Life" sub pillar to "Improving Safety & Security". As new information becomes available and we innovate upon our approach, individual alignments may change from time to time. In this case, changes will only be made if we believe it enhances clarity for our clients.
All of the companies within the portfolio are aligned to at least one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
Select a goal below to view companies and their case studies.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities represent 100% of the publicly traded securities in the portfolio. There were no holdings primarily aligned with UN SDGs 1, 4, 11, 13, 14, 15, or 17. Figures may not total due to rounding . Source for images: United Nations. The trademarks shown are the property of their respective owners. Use does not imply endorsement, sponsorship, or affiliation of T. Rowe Price with any of the trademark owners. As new information becomes available and we innovate upon our approach, individual alignments may change from time to time. In this case, changes will only be made if we believe it enhances clarity for our clients.
The companies in the portfolio come from a broad range of industries.
Select an industry below to view companies and their case studies. Click here for the full list of industries.
Software
Application software enhances efficiency throughout the value chain, helping customers minimize their environmental impact or fostering SME development.
Fund: 12.95%
Index: 0.63%
Relative: 12.32%
Banks
Emerging Markets financial institutions enable financial inclusion, retail SME formation and economic growth.
Fund: 11.12%
Index: 0.14%
Relative: 10.98%
Pharmaceuticals
Pharmaceutical companies provide innovative medical treatment at scale to improve patient outcomes.
Fund: 6.96%
Index: 1.12%
Relative: 5.84%
Life Sciences Tools & Services
Life science tools companies help drive innovation and reduce manufacturing cost in healthcare which improves patient outcomes.
Fund: 6.61%
Index: 0.47%
Relative: 6.14%
Machinery
Machinery companies include multi-industrial companies that enable environmental solutions such as metering or flow control products.
Fund: 6.57%
Index: 0.25%
Relative: 6.32%
Electrical Equipment
Companies manufacturing and distributing electrical equipment like motors, transformers, and switchgear for industrial, commercial, and utility use.
Fund: 6.51%
Index: 0.30%
Relative: 6.21%
Commercial Services & Supplies
Commercial services companies include environmental and facilities services such as waste management and water treatment companies.
Fund: 5.91%
Index: 0.09%
Relative: 5.82%
Health Care Equipment & Supplies
Healthcare equipment companies provide medical technology such as robotic surgery or orthopedics which improves patient outcomes.
Fund: 5.62%
Index: 0.43%
Relative: 5.19%
Electronic Equipment Instruments & Components
Electronic equipment companies provide critical parts to environmental and healthcare solutions such as sensors or connectors.
Fund: 5.54%
Index: 0.20%
Relative: 5.34%
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment
Companies in the semiconductor ecosystem improve energy efficiency across the value chain, resulting in significant reductions in emissions.
Fund: 4.28%
Index: 0.45%
Relative: 3.83%
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. T. Rowe Price uses the current MSCI/S&P Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) for sector and industry reporting. Index refers to MSCI All Country World ex-Australia Index (net of withholding tax).
At T. Rowe Price we implement limited sets of exclusions on our portfolios. View Our Exclusion Policy
Primary United Nations Sustainable Development Goal:
Zero Hunger
End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture.
Below are the companies associated with this UN SDG and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deere | Promote precision and sustainable agriculture. Read case study |
Agricultural equipment sold helped mitigate approximately 10.8 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.90 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Deere
Pressure Point
As global populations continue to grow, so does the strain on the global food system and the land that is required to sustain it. Precision agriculture technology can help ease the burden, as such solutions can help farmers increase crop production while reducing energy, fertiliser, and pesticide use1.
Impact Thesis
Deere advances sustainable agriculture through precision technologies that boost crop yields while reducing fertilizer and energy use, and emissions. Its solutions improve farmer productivity and environmental outcomes. Beyond agriculture, Deere develops electric and hybrid machinery in construction and forestry, scaling efficiency and sustainability gains across multiple sectors.
Impact Sub Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- Deere has a dominant position in the agricultural machinery market. The company’s well-established brand, existing customer relationships, extensive dealer network, and, of increasing importance, developing precision agriculture technologies provide a sizeable economic moat and durable pricing power.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Investment into innovative precision agriculture technology, machinery, tools, systems and related services
- USD 2,290 million in R&D expense2
Output
Manufacturing of advanced precision agriculture technologies that enable farmers to improve yield with less fertiliser input3
- 775,000 connected machines
- 197 million unique acres incorporating two or more precision technologies or sustainable practices over a 12-month period
Outcome
Improved farmer productivity and environmental outcomes4
- 17% improvement in crop protection efficiency
- 2% improvement in nitrogen use efficiency
- 5% reduction in customer GHG emissions
Impact
GHG emissions avoided
- 10.8 million mtCO2e emissions avoided5
Engagement
- We engaged with Deere to provide feedback on its impact reporting and to discuss risks to its impact thesis. We shared our insights on enhancing the company’s impact reporting by suggesting additional impact KPIs. The company valued our feedback and plans to incorporate these suggestions in future impact reports.
Sources/references:
1 Association of Equipment Manufacturers (2024). “The environmental benefits of precision agriculture quantified”.
2 Deere 2024 Annual Report.
3 Deere 2024 Business Impact Report.
4 Deere 2024 Business Impact Report. Progress reported based on 2023 results compared to a 2021 baseline.
5 TRPA estimate.
Primary United Nations Sustainable Development Goal:
Good Health & Well-being
Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
Below are the companies associated with this UN SDG and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intuitive Surgical | Make surgery more effective, less invasive, and easier on patients through advanced robotics Read case study |
Surgical procedures assisted by Intuitive's da Vinci robotic systems helped helped extend approximately 2,440 lives | 2.03 |
| AstraZeneca | Push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines, while increasing access to essential medicines. | Delivery of medical treatments helped extend approximately 85,408 lives | 2.06 |
| Chugai Pharmaceutical | Treat haemophilia patients with its Hemlibra product, which is the current standard of care for treating the condition. | JPY 176.7 billion spent on research and development | 1.34 |
| Danaher | Advance patient health and improve treatment outcomes through solutions that enable superior clinical decision-making, research, and manufacturing of therapeutics. | Approximately 55.4 million patients treated by the company's devices | 2.58 |
| Eli Lilly | Increase access to truly innovative care in diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and oncology. | Delivery of medical treatments helped treat 58 million people extend approximately 2,960 lives | 3.56 |
| Hamamatsu Photonics | Improve the detection of health care issues through better imaging as well as improving automotive safety through LiDAR technology. | JPY 13.5 billion spent on research and development | 1.25 |
| Sartorius | Improve patient outcomes by providing products that help make the therapeutic manufacturing process cheaper and more efficient. | EUR 197 million spent on research and development | 0.97 |
| Sartorius Stedim Biotech | Improve patient outcomes by providing products that help make the therapeutic manufacturing process cheaper and more efficient. | EUR 136 million spent on research and development | 0.67 |
| Sonova | Help diagnose and address hearing loss for patients and enhance their quality of life. | Approximately 5 million patients treated by the company's hearing devices | 1.61 |
| Stryker | Provide innovative solutions that improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients. | Approximately 150 million patients served by the company's devices | 1.98 |
| Thermo Fisher Scientific | Provide innovative solutions to help improve life for patients and therapeutic research and development outcomes. | Approximately 1.12 million patients served by the company's devices | 2.38 |
| UnitedHealth | Provide a health care safety net while improving coverage for aging populations and pursuing cost reduction initiatives. | Approximately 50.6 million health insurance lives covered | 1.80 |
| Veeva Systems | Enabling health care companies to engage in faster and more accurate clinical trials and achieve better health care outcomes. | Veeva Systems' software solutions serve roughly 1,477 customers | 0.66 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Intuitive Surgical
Pressure Point
Robotic surgical systems dramatically improve patient outcomes, reducing postoperative complications and recovery times1. While we are excited by the prospect of future technological advancements in the field, pricing for surgical robots remains high. This can lead to socioeconomic and geographic inequality with respect to accessing the benefits of this technology.
Impact Thesis
Intuitive Surgical is the global leader in robotic-assisted, minimally invasive surgery. Their da Vinci surgical robot helps reduce surgical complications and ultimately enhances patients’ outcomes3. For example, their latest technology allows for haptic feedback, which helps limit tissue damage and blood loss during the operation and thereby improve patient safety.
Impact Sub Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Good Health and Well-being
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- Intuitive Surgical leads the robotic surgery revolution. Intuitive launched its first da Vinci surgical system in 2000 and has steadily taken share from open and laparoscopic surgery. Intuitive is enhancing its digital and artificial intelligence capabilities to improve the surgical experience for clinicians and patients, positioning itself as a crucial partner for hospitals.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Investment into research and development focused on robotic surgery
- USD 1,145 million in R&D expense2
Output
Innovative robotic surgery tools
- 9,902 da Vinci surgical systems installed globally2
- 1,526 da Vinci surgical systems placed in 20242
Outcome
Patients treated with more effective surgical tools, improving clinical outcomes and patient experience
- 2.68 million procedures performed on da Vinci systems in 20242
Impact
Improvement of patient outcomes
- 2,240 lives extended3
Engagement
- We engaged with Intuitive to discuss their product innovation outlook. We are encouraged by the company's recent launch of diverse robots, leasing options, and innovative instruments which should broaden the company’s customer base. We believe these steps will improve accessibility and therefore further the company’s impact.
Sources/references:
1 Bergholz, M., Ferle, M. & Weber, B.M. The benefits of haptic feedback in robot assisted surgery and their moderators: a meta-analysis.
2 Intuitive Surgical 2024 10-K annual report.
3 Net Purpose estimates. Estimate calculated versus baseline.
Primary United Nations Sustainable Development Goal:
Gender Equality
Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
Below are the companies associated with this UN SDG and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bright Horizons Family Solutions | Allowing working parents to more effectively manage careers while providing more opportunities for dual careers, reducing gender inequities. | Early education and child care centers served approximately 115,000 children | 1.19 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Primary United Nations Sustainable Development Goal:
Clean Water & Sanitation
Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
Below are the companies associated with this UN SDG and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Astral | Advance India's infrastructure improvement through provision of pipes for services such as water supply, drainage, sewerage, and agricultural irrigation. | Astral's pipe and water tank capacity in India represents 381,960 MT per annum approximately | 0.51 |
| Veralto | Help support cleaner and more efficient water supply at scale and enhance product quality and safety. | Veralto's treatment solutions helped save 322 million cubic meters of water | 1.02 |
| Xylem | Help customers mitigate water scarcity, optimize water systems to improve water affordability, prevent stormwater pollution. | Xylem products helped save 1 billion cubic meters of water | 1.11 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Primary United Nations Sustainable Development Goal:
Affordable and Clean Energy
Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.
Below are the companies associated with this UN SDG and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| SPIE | Help customers increase energy efficiency, scale up renewable energy projects, and reduce emissions. Read case study |
Renovation of buildings helped mitigate 33,827 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.33 |
| ASML | Through innovation in chip manufacturing, enable energy efficiency and digital connections. | Downstream energy efficiency gains through products helped mitigate approximately 2.8 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) | 1.68 |
| Brookfield Renewable Partners | Contribute toward the generation of zero-carbon electricity. | Renewable energy generation helped mitigate 58 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.27 |
| Canadian National Railway | Enable decarbonization of freight transport in the U.S. and Canada through conversion from road to rail. | Conversion from road to rail freight helped mitigate 13.2 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 0.49 |
| Delta Electronics | Offer wide range of products and services designed to enhance energy efficiency. | Products sold helped mitigate 15.2 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.61 |
| First Solar | Help the shift to renewables and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in electricity generation. | Solar PV modules helped mitigate 9.1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 0.93 |
| Hubbell | Enable electricity grid resilience through modernization and electrification, while also integrating renewables. | Products helped mitigate 87,037 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.91 |
| Infineon Technologies | Support electrification and energy efficiency. | Products helped mitigate 130.3 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.66 |
| Ingersoll Rand | Increase energy efficiency while allowing customers to reduce their carbon footprint. | Products helped mitigate 34.2 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.53 |
| Linde | Accelerate environmental transition and a lower carbon future through innovation in green hydrogen and carbon capture, as well as decarbonizing heavy industries. | Solutions helped mitigate 96 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 2.89 |
| National Grid | In addition to electricity distribution, enable decarbonization of the power sector in the UK and the US by connecting additional renewables to the grid. | National Grid infrastructure helped mitigate 1.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.43 |
| PG&E | Enable decarbonization by increasing electrification. | PG&E infrastructure helped mitigate 679,707 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.75 |
| Rockwell Automation | Help customers improve productivity and reduce energy use and emissions for numerous industrial processes. | USD 477 million spent on research and development | 1.62 |
| Roper Technologies | Increase resource efficiency. | Cloud-based productivity software helped mitigate approximately 1.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 2.55 |
| Schneider Electrics | Enable electrification and industrial digitization, thus reducing emissions. | Products helped mitigate 126 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.66 |
| Synopsys | Enabling innovative chip design that improves energy efficiency and reduces the digital divide. | USD 2,082 million spent on research and development | 2.41 |
| TE Connectivity | Connectivity solutions enable the transition and adoption of electric vehicles and enhance safety and autonomy features. | Solutions helped mitigate 334 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.09 |
| Tesla | Accelerate decarbonization by improving access to electric vehicles and renewable energy sources in place of fossil-fuel powered alternatives. | Products helped mitigate 32 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.61 |
| Trane Technologies | Improve energy efficiency in commercial and residential buildings. | Products helped mitigate 80 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 0.98 |
| Vertiv | Enable datacenters and telecommunications networks to reduce their carbon footprint. | Cooling solution technology helped save 25,55 cubic meters of water | 1.33 |
| Waste Connections | Enable improved waste recycling rates, while mitigating methane emissions from waste. | Recycling operations helped mitigate 21.6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 2.14 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
SPIE
Pressure Point
Energy consumption in buildings contributes to 17.5% of global GHG emissions.1 In EU households about 79% of energy is consumed for space and water heating and cooling.2 To meet the Paris Agreement goal to limit the global average temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, it is essential to reduce GHG emissions from buildings.
Impact Thesis
SPIE helps European customers achieve energy efficiency and emission reduction goals by providing engineering and efficiency services to a wide range of end markets. Solutions include installation, replacement, or maintenance of energy efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in buildings, energy efficient building renovations, and operating voltage systems in transmission networks.
Impact Sub Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Affordable and Clean Energy
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- SPIE is the largest independent multi-technical services provider in Europe, providing mechanical, electrical and HVAC engineering that help customers achieve energy efficiency and emission reduction goals. We expect the company to benefit from European infrastructure stimulus and energy transition plans.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Investment to enhance expertise in low-carbon engineering services consulting and support customers achieve their decarbonisation ambitions:
- EUR 9,919 million in revenues3
Output
Innovative engineering services that help customers reduce energy consumption, deploy renewable energy, and reduce GHG emissions
Outcome
Infrastructure maintenance, replacement and upgrading to enable the energy transition and improve energy efficiency
Impact
33,827 mtCO2e GHG emissions avoided by customers from renovation of buildings4
Engagement
- SPIE provides high-quality sustainability reporting. During our most recent engagement, we offered feedback on their impact on KPI disclosures. Currently, they report the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions avoided from selected energy efficiency projects. We encouraged them to develop an aggregate measure of GHG emissions avoided, which they are currently working on.
Sources/references:
1 Ourworldindata.org.
2 European Commission.
3 SPIE 2024 Annual Report.
4 Net Purpose estimate.
Primary United Nations Sustainable Development Goal:
Decent Work & Economic Growth
Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.
Below are the companies associated with this UN SDG and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSA Safety | Protect workers from injuries and health-threatening incidents. Read case study |
Over 40 million workers protected by personal protection equipment | 1.43 |
| MercadoLibre | Enabling small businesses to establish and grow their business online. Providing merchants with digital payment and credit solutions that promote financial inclusion. | Supported approximately 570,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) | 1.81 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
MSA Safety
Pressure Point
Approximately 2 million people die each year because of occupational accidents or work-related diseases globally, with around 360 million work-related injuries1. Providing a safe working environment has positive implications for employee safety and improved mental and physical health. This can feed through into better organizational performance and higher employee satisfaction.
Impact Thesis
MSA Safety is a manufacturer of safety equipment whose products help to save lives. The company’s core products include self-contained breathing apparatus, fixed gas and flame detection systems, portable gas detection instruments, fire and rescue helmets, and fall-protection devices.
Impact Sub Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Decent Work and Economic Growth
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- MSA Safety is the market leader in firefighter safety and gas detection and a leading competitor in industrial personal protection equipment. We think the safety product industry is an attractive market given rational competition, pricing power, and reoccurring need for safety products.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Investment in design, development and manufacturing of safety equipment
- USD 66.5 million invested in R&D2
Output
Manufacturing and distribution of safety equipment
Outcome
Safety equipment helps workers perform their jobs more safely
Impact
>40 million workers protected in 20242
Engagement
- We engaged with MSA Safety on its strategy to accelerate the impact of its business activities. In the near-term, the company is looking to grow in detection and diversify the geographic footprint of its firefighting business. We also provide feedback on the company’s impact disclosure and make several suggestions for further improvement.
Sources/references:
1 International Labor Organization.
2 MSA Safety 2024 Annual Report.
Primary United Nations Sustainable Development Goal:
Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation.
Below are the companies associated with this UN SDG and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bank Central Asia | Supporting financial inclusion in Indonesia. | Supported 14.7 million underbanked customers and helped create 65,382 jobs approximately | 1.73 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Primary United Nations Sustainable Development Goal:
Reduced Inequalities
Reduce inequality within and among countries.
Below are the companies associated with this UN SDG and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nu Holdings | Promote financial inclusion by providing low‑cost services to underserved or unbanked populations. Read case study |
Supported 30 million underbanked customers approximately | 1.32 |
| Asia Commercial Bank | Increasing financial inclusion in Vietnam, enabling economic growth and reduction in financial inequalities. | Loans to SMEs helped create approximately 48,000 jobs | 1.41 |
| Axis Bank | Increase financial inclusion for retail and micro, small, and medium enterprises in India. | Supported 3.9 million underbanked customers and helped create 120,000 jobs approximately | 1.12 |
| Bank Rakyat Indonesia | Supporting financial inclusion in Indonesia. | Supported 2.4 million underbanked customers and helped create 455,000 jobs approximately | 1.50 |
| Chailease Holding | Offer leasing services to SMEs often neglected by large institutions. | Supported 93,600 underbanked customers and helped create 211,000 jobs approximately | 0.73 |
| GoDaddy | Enable formation and growth in online presence of small businesses, individual entrepreneurs, and developers. | Supported approximately 20.5 million SMEs | 2.27 |
| HubSpot | Enable financial inclusion by providing affordable technology solutions to SMEs powered by energy efficient solutions. | Supported approximately 248,000 SMEs | 1.64 |
| Intuit | Promote financial inclusion using new technology to help consumers and SMEs. | Supported 18,000 jobs and 100 million SMEs approximately | 1.68 |
| Kanzhun | Promotes greater inclusivity of employment by increasing opportunities for underprivileged groups. | Supported 603,000 individuals via their disability job assistance program | 0.77 |
| Kotak Mahindra Bank | Enable financial inclusion within India by reducing the financing barriers underbanked groups face. | Supported 500,000 underbanked customers and helped create 115,000 jobs approximately | 2.07 |
| OneMain Holdings | Improve credit access to those with limited access, while also providing budgeting and financial literacy resources. | Supported 2.6 million underbanked customers approximately | 1.78 |
| Popular | Enable financial inclusion in Puerto Rico by providing banking and credit solutions in underserved communities through the bank's large physical presence. | Supported 113,000 underbanked customers approximately | 1.96 |
| Prudential | Help spread the cost of insurance protection and reduce the protection gap in underserved populations. | Approximately 17.3 million financial insurance lives covered | 1.41 |
| Shopify | Enable SMEs easy access and opportunity to create and manage online businesses enabling effective competition. | Supported the creation of 5.2 million jobs | 1.54 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Nu Holdings
Pressure Point
Globally, 1.4 billion people remain unbanked lacking access to financial institutions or a mobile money provider1. Financial system access through basic banking access is critical to economic progression and social equity. A basic bank account facilitates safer, easier, and more affordable transfers of wages, government payments, remittances, and bill payments, improving overall financial stability.
Impact Thesis
Nu, one of the world’s largest digital banking platforms contributes to financial empowerment through its low-cost digital banking platform, providing access to the financial system for customers that have been significantly underbanked. Their financial services also support small businesses, which contributes to job creation and ultimately economic growth.
Impact Sub-Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Reduced Inequalities
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- Nu is one of the world’s largest digital banking platforms, launched in Brazil and expanding in Latin America with strong brand affinity. Its pure digital model leads to low-cost financial products offering and allows for a robust credit underwriting model.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Financing retail and small and medium enterprises in Brazil, Colombia, Mexico
- USD 28.9 billion of customer deposits2
Output
Loans targeting increased access to financial services
- USD 20.7 billion of credit cards and loans issued to retail customers3
Outcome
- Underserved populations can better assimilate into the economy.
- SME businesses can invest to grow or maintain their business.
Impact
Increasing financial inclusion
- 30 million people provided their first credit/debit card4
- Customers saved USD 11 billion in banking fees4
Engagement
- We engaged with Nu on their product roadmap and how they plan to expand their digital presence. Being purely digital allows Nu to provide low-cost banking services to the underbanked. Further enhancements in its online offerings could reduce the risk of loans becoming non-performing and increase the asset quality of the bank.
Sources/references:
1 World Bank
2 Nubank 2024 Annual Report
3 Nubank Q4 2024 Earnings release report
4 Nubank 2024 ESG report. Data for the 2014-2024 period.
Primary United Nations Sustainable Development Goal:
Responsible Consumption & Production
Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.
Below are the companies associated with this UN SDG and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trex | Increase use of recycled plastic and wood, reducing landfill and deforestation. Read case study |
Use of recycled material helped avoid approximately 525,500 metric tons of waste | 1.45 |
| Autodesk | Facilitate building and manufacturing processes that are more efficient in energy and raw material use. | Autodesk helps 396,333 customers with their industrial research & development activities | 1.92 |
| Docusign | Improve paper-use practices and reduce waste by moving legacy processes onto digital platform. | Electronic signature software services helped mitigate 944,164 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 0.74 |
| IDEX | Supply engineered solutions to create efficiencies in manufacturing, life sciences, and health care. | USD 178.6 million spent on research and development | 2.03 |
| Keyence | Reducing manufacturing waste, improving industrial efficiency, and increasing safety in the workplace. | USD 187.2 million spent on research and development | 1.59 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Trex
Pressure Point
Over the past 20 years, annual plastic production and plastic waste generation have more than doubled. In 2019, only 9.8% of plastic waste was ultimately recycled1. Average virgin plastic is associated with the emissions of 2.1 metric tons of CO2 equivalent per kilogram produced, while recycling helps to save 38.1% of those emissions2.
Impact Thesis
Trex is a manufacturer of wood alternative composite decking products. Trex’s manufacturing approach uses recycled materials as a feedstock to the extent it is possible. Recycled plastic film and reclaimed wood fiber make up 95% of its residential decking products.
Impact Sub Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Responsible Consumption and Production
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- Trex leads the composite decking industry, is positioned to benefit from growth in residential outdoor living and demand shift from wood decking to composite. Composite decking offers advantages versus wood decking such as lower maintenance costs and increased durability.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Investment into innovative decking and railing products that enable recycling of plastic waste and wood scrap
- USD 3.5 million invested in R&D3
Output
Manufacturing and distribution of durable decking and railing products that are 95% made of recycled product content
Outcome
Collection and recycling of plastic waste and wood scrap to convert them into durable decking products made from recycled materials
- 188,500 metric tons of recycled polyethylene (PE) plastic3
- 337,000 metric tons of reclaimed wood sourced3
Impact
Use of recycled materials displaces requirement for decking and railing products to be produced from virgin materials
- 525,500 metric tons of waste avoided4
Engagement
- We engaged with Trex about its efforts to source more recyclable plastic. The company is investing in material science to utilize more contaminated plastics, which are cheaper and easier to obtain but may affect product quality. This approach aims to bolster Trex's position as a leading supplier of sustainable decking products.
Sources/references:
1 Nature: Communications Earth & Environment, April 2025.
2 Norden - Climate Benefits of Material Recycling.
3 Trex 2024 10-K annual report.
4 Trex 2024 Sustainability report. Calculated as the sum of PE plastic recycled and wood reclaimed in manufacturing of decking and railing products in pounds (i.e., 1,051 million pounds) converted from pounds to tons (1 metric ton = 2,000 pounds). Includes the sum of PE plastic recycled and wood reclaimed in manufacturing of decking and railing products.
Primary United Nations Sustainable Development Goal:
Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions
Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.
Below are the companies associated with this UN SDG and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fortinet | Provide cyber protection for cloud and data center operations powered by energy‑efficient solutions. | Over 830,000 enterprises protected by Fortinet solutions | 2.01 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Impact Sub Pillar:
Reducing Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)
Aimed at decreasing greenhouse gas emissions through renewable energy generation, energy efficiency, and supporting technologies that facilitate decarbonisation.
Below are the companies associated with this sub pillar and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| SPIE | Help customers increase energy efficiency, scale up renewable energy projects, and reduce emissions. Read case study |
Renovation of buildings helped mitigate 33,827 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.33 |
| ASML | Through innovation in chip manufacturing, enable energy efficiency and digital connections. | Downstream energy efficiency gains through products helped mitigate approximately 2.8 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.68 |
| Brookfield Renewable Partners | Contribute toward the generation of zero-carbon electricity. | Renewable energy generation helped mitigate 58 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.27 |
| Canadian National Railway | Enable decarbonization of freight transport in the U.S. and Canada through conversion from road to rail. | Conversion from road to rail freight helped mitigate 13.2 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 0.49 |
| Delta Electronics | Offer wide range of products and services designed to enhance energy efficiency. | Products sold helped mitigate 15.2 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.61 |
| First Solar | Help the shift to renewables and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in electricity generation. | Solar PV modules helped mitigate 9.1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 0.93 |
| Hubbell | Enable electricity grid resilience through modernization and electrification while also integrating renewables. | Products helped mitigate 87,037 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.91 |
| Infineon Technologies | Support electrification and energy efficiency. | Products helped mitigate 130.3 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.66 |
| Ingersoll Rand | Increase energy efficiency while allowing customers to reduce their carbon footprint. | Products helped mitigate 34.2 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.53 |
| Linde | Accelerate environmental transition and a lower carbon future through innovation in green hydrogen and carbon capture, as well as decarbonizing heavy industries. | Solutions helped mitigate 96 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 2.89 |
| National Grid | In addition to electricity distribution, enable decarbonization of the power sector in the UK and the US by connecting additional renewables to the grid. | National Grid infrastructure helped mitigate 1.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.43 |
| PG&E | Enable decarbonization by increasing electrification. | PG&E infrastructure helped mitigate 679,707 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.75 |
| Rockwell Automation | Help customers improve productivity and reduce energy use and emissions for numerous industrial processes. | USD 477 million spent on research and development | 1.62 |
| Roper Technologies | Increase resource efficiency. | Cloud-based productivity software helped mitigate approximately 1.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 2.55 |
| Schneider Electric | Enable electrification and industrial digitization, thus reducing emissions. | Products helped mitigate 126 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.66 |
| Synopsys | Enabling innovative chip design that improves energy efficiency and reduces the digital divide. | USD 2,082 million spent on research and development | 2.41 |
| TE Connectivity | Connectivity solutions enable the transition and adoption of electric vehicles and enhance safety and autonomy features. | Solutions helped mitigate 334 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.09 |
| Tesla | Accelerate decarbonization by improving access to electric vehicles and renewable energy sources in place of fossil-fuel powered alternatives. | Products helped mitigate 32 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.61 |
| Trane Technologies | Improve energy efficiency in commercial and residential buildings. | Products helped mitigate 80 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 0.98 |
| Vertiv | Enable datacenters and telecommunications networks to reduce their carbon footprint. | Cooling solution technology helped save 25,55 cubic meters of water | 1.33 |
| Waste Connections | Enable improved waste recycling rates, while mitigating methane emissions from waste. | Recycling operations helped mitigate 21.6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 2.14 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
SPIE
Pressure Point
Energy consumption in buildings contributes to 17.5% of global GHG emissions.1 In EU households about 79% of energy is consumed for space and water heating and cooling.2 To meet the Paris Agreement goal to limit the global average temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, it is essential to reduce GHG emissions from buildings.
Impact Thesis
SPIE helps European customers achieve energy efficiency and emission reduction goals by providing engineering and efficiency services to a wide range of end markets. Solutions include installation, replacement, or maintenance of energy efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in buildings, energy efficient building renovations, and operating voltage systems in transmission networks.
Impact Sub Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Affordable and Clean Energy
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- SPIE is the largest independent multi-technical services provider in Europe, providing mechanical, electrical and HVAC engineering that help customers achieve energy efficiency and emission reduction goals. We expect the company to benefit from European infrastructure stimulus and energy transition plans.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Investment to enhance expertise in low-carbon engineering services consulting and support customers achieve their decarbonisation ambitions:
- EUR 9,919 million in revenues3
Output
Innovative engineering services that help customers reduce energy consumption, deploy renewable energy, and reduce GHG emissions
Outcome
Infrastructure maintenance, replacement and upgrading to enable the energy transition and improve energy efficiency
Impact
33,827 mtCO2e GHG emissions avoided by customers from renovation of buildings4
Engagement
- SPIE provides high-quality sustainability reporting. During our most recent engagement, we offered feedback on their impact on KPI disclosures. Currently, they report the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions avoided from selected energy efficiency projects. We encouraged them to develop an aggregate measure of GHG emissions avoided, which they are currently working on.
Sources/references:
1 Ourworldindata.org.
2 European Commission.
3 SPIE 2024 Annual Report.
4 Net Purpose estimate.
Impact Sub Pillar:
Promoting Healthy Ecosystems
Focuses on biodiversity, conservation, sustainable agriculture, and natural resource preservation aiming to restore ecosystems and promote sustainability.
Below are the companies associated with this sub pillar and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deere | Promote precision and sustainable agriculture. Read case study |
Agricultural equipment sold helped mitigate approximately 10.8 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.90 |
| Veralto | Help support cleaner and more efficient water supply at scale and enhance product quality and safety. | Veralto's treatment solutions helped save 322 million cubic meters of water | 1.02 |
| Xylem | Help customers mitigate water scarcity, optimize water systems to improve water affordability, prevent stormwater pollution. | Xylem products helped save 1 billion cubic meters of water | 1.11 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Deere
Pressure Point
As global populations continue to grow, so does the strain on the global food system and the land that is required to sustain it. Precision agriculture technology can help ease the burden, as such solutions can help farmers increase crop production while reducing energy, fertiliser, and pesticide use1.
Impact Thesis
Deere advances sustainable agriculture through precision technologies that boost crop yields while reducing fertilizer and energy use, and emissions. Its solutions improve farmer productivity and environmental outcomes. Beyond agriculture, Deere develops electric and hybrid machinery in construction and forestry, scaling efficiency and sustainability gains across multiple sectors.
Impact Sub Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- Deere has a dominant position in the agricultural machinery market. The company’s well-established brand, existing customer relationships, extensive dealer network, and, of increasing importance, developing precision agriculture technologies provide a sizeable economic moat and durable pricing power.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Investment into innovative precision agriculture technology, machinery, tools, systems and related services
- USD 2,290 million in R&D expense2
Output
Manufacturing of advanced precision agriculture technologies that enable farmers to improve yield with less fertiliser input3
- 775,000 connected machines
- 197 million unique acres incorporating two or more precision technologies or sustainable practices over a 12-month period
Outcome
Improved farmer productivity and environmental outcomes4
- 17% improvement in crop protection efficiency
- 2% improvement in nitrogen use efficiency
- 5% reduction in customer GHG emissions
Impact
GHG emissions avoided
- 10.8 million mtCO2e emissions avoided5
Engagement
- We engaged with Deere to provide feedback on its impact reporting and to discuss risks to its impact thesis. We shared our insights on enhancing the company’s impact reporting by suggesting additional impact KPIs. The company valued our feedback and plans to incorporate these suggestions in future impact reports.
Sources/references:
1 Association of Equipment Manufacturers (2024). “The environmental benefits of precision agriculture quantified”.
2 Deere 2024 Annual Report.
3 Deere 2024 Business Impact Report.
4 Deere 2024 Business Impact Report. Progress reported based on 2023 results compared to a 2021 baseline.
5 TRPA estimate.
Impact Sub Pillar:
Nurturing Circular Economies
Promotes waste reduction and materials reuse, aiming for economies that minimize waste and maximise resource use.
Below are the companies associated with this sub pillar and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trex | Increase use of recycled plastic and wood, reducing landfill and deforestation. Read case study |
Use of recycled material helped avoid approximately 525,500 metric tons of waste | 1.45 |
| Autodesk | Facilitate building and manufacturing processes that are more efficient in energy and raw material use. | Autodesk helps 396,333 customers with their industrial research & development activities | 1.92 |
| Docusign | Improve paper-use practices and reduce waste by moving legacy processes onto digital platform. | Electronic signature software services helped mitigate 944,164 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 0.74 |
| IDEX | Supply engineered solutions to create efficiencies in manufacturing, life sciences, and health care. | USD 178.6 million spent on research and development | 2.03 |
| Keyence | Reduce manufacturing waste, improving industrial efficiency, and increasing safety in the workplace. | USD 187.2 million spent on research and development | 1.59 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Trex
Pressure Point
Over the past 20 years, annual plastic production and plastic waste generation have more than doubled. In 2019, only 9.8% of plastic waste was ultimately recycled1. Average virgin plastic is associated with the emissions of 2.1 metric tons of CO2 equivalent per kilogram produced, while recycling helps to save 38.1% of those emissions2.
Impact Thesis
Trex is a manufacturer of wood alternative composite decking products. Trex’s manufacturing approach uses recycled materials as a feedstock to the extent it is possible. Recycled plastic film and reclaimed wood fiber make up 95% of its residential decking products.
Impact Sub Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Responsible Consumption and Production
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- Trex leads the composite decking industry, is positioned to benefit from growth in residential outdoor living and demand shift from wood decking to composite. Composite decking offers advantages versus wood decking such as lower maintenance costs and increased durability.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Investment into innovative decking and railing products that enable recycling of plastic waste and wood scrap
- USD 3.5 million invested in R&D3
Output
Manufacturing and distribution of durable decking and railing products that are 95% made of recycled product content
Outcome
Collection and recycling of plastic waste and wood scrap to convert them into durable decking products made from recycled materials
- 188,500 metric tons of recycled polyethylene (PE) plastic3
- 337,000 metric tons of reclaimed wood sourced3
Impact
Use of recycled materials displaces requirement for decking and railing products to be produced from virgin materials
- 525,500 metric tons of waste avoided4
Engagement
- We engaged with Trex about its efforts to source more recyclable plastic. The company is investing in material science to utilize more contaminated plastics, which are cheaper and easier to obtain but may affect product quality. This approach aims to bolster Trex's position as a leading supplier of sustainable decking products.
Sources/references:
1 Nature: Communications Earth & Environment, April 2025.
2 Norden - Climate Benefits of Material Recycling.
3 Trex 2024 10-K annual report.
4 Trex 2024 Sustainability report. Calculated as the sum of PE plastic recycled and wood reclaimed in manufacturing of decking and railing products in pounds (i.e., 1,051 million pounds) converted from pounds to tons (1 metric ton = 2,000 pounds). Includes the sum of PE plastic recycled and wood reclaimed in manufacturing of decking and railing products.
Nu Holdings
Pressure Point
Globally, 1.4 billion people remain unbanked lacking access to financial institutions or a mobile money provider1. Financial system access through basic banking access is critical to economic progression and social equity. A basic bank account facilitates safer, easier, and more affordable transfers of wages, government payments, remittances, and bill payments, improving overall financial stability.
Impact Thesis
Nu, one of the world’s largest digital banking platforms contributes to financial empowerment through its low-cost digital banking platform, providing access to the financial system for customers that have been significantly underbanked. Their financial services also support small businesses, which contributes to job creation and ultimately economic growth.
Impact Sub-Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Reduced Inequalities
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- Nu is one of the world’s largest digital banking platforms, launched in Brazil and expanding in Latin America with strong brand affinity. Its pure digital model leads to low-cost financial products offering and allows for a robust credit underwriting model.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Financing retail and small and medium enterprises in Brazil, Colombia, Mexico
- USD 28.9 billion of customer deposits2
Output
Loans targeting increased access to financial services
- USD 20.7 billion of credit cards and loans issued to retail customers3
Outcome
- Underserved populations can better assimilate into the economy.
- SME businesses can invest to grow or maintain their business.
Impact
Increasing financial inclusion
- 30 million people provided their first credit/debit card4
- Customers saved USD 11 billion in banking fees4
Engagement
- We engaged with Nu on their product roadmap and how they plan to expand their digital presence. Being purely digital allows Nu to provide low-cost banking services to the underbanked. Further enhancements in its online offerings could reduce the risk of loans becoming non-performing and increase the asset quality of the bank.
Sources/references:
1 World Bank
2 Nubank 2024 Annual Report
3 Nubank Q4 2024 Earnings release report
4 Nubank 2024 ESG report. Data for the 2014-2024 period.
Impact Sub Pillar:
Enhancing Quality of Life
Investments improve living standards via access to essential services like safety and cybersecurity, enhancing life quality in disadvantaged areas.
Below are the companies associated with this sub pillar and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSA Safety | Protect workers from injuries and health-threatening incidents. Read case study |
Over 40 million workers protected by personal protection equipment | 1.43 |
| Fortinet | Provide cyber protection for cloud and data center operations powered by energy-efficient solutions. |
Over 830,000 enterprises protected by Fortinet solutions | 2.01 |
| Prudential | Help spread the cost of insurance protection and reduce the protection gap in underserved populations. | Approximately 17.3 million financial insurance lives covered | 1.41 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
MSA Safety
Pressure Point
Approximately 2 million people die each year because of occupational accidents or work-related diseases globally, with around 360 million work-related injuries1. Providing a safe working environment has positive implications for employee safety and improved mental and physical health. This can feed through into better organizational performance and higher employee satisfaction.
Impact Thesis
MSA Safety is a manufacturer of safety equipment whose products help to save lives. The company’s core products include self-contained breathing apparatus, fixed gas and flame detection systems, portable gas detection instruments, fire and rescue helmets, and fall-protection devices.
Impact Sub Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Decent Work and Economic Growth
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- MSA Safety is the market leader in firefighter safety and gas detection and a leading competitor in industrial personal protection equipment. We think the safety product industry is an attractive market given rational competition, pricing power, and reoccurring need for safety products.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Investment in design, development and manufacturing of safety equipment
- USD 66.5 million invested in R&D2
Output
Manufacturing and distribution of safety equipment
Outcome
Safety equipment helps workers perform their jobs more safely
Impact
>40 million workers protected in 20242
Engagement
- We engaged with MSA Safety on its strategy to accelerate the impact of its business activities. In the near-term, the company is looking to grow in detection and diversify the geographic footprint of its firefighting business. We also provide feedback on the company’s impact disclosure and make several suggestions for further improvement.
Sources/references:
1 International Labor Organization.
2 MSA Safety 2024 Annual Report.
Impact Sub Pillar:
Improving Health
Focuses on companies advancing healthcare delivery, developing treatments, and improving affordability and access for better health outcomes.
Below are the companies associated with this sub pillar and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intuitive Surgical | Make surgery more effective, less invasive, and easier on patients through advanced robotics. Read case study |
Surgical procedures assisted by Intuitive's da Vinci robotic systems helped extend approximately 2,440 lives | 2.03 |
| AstraZeneca | Push the boundaries of science to deliver life‑changing medicines, while increasing access to essential medicines. | Delivery of medical treatments helped extend approximately 85,408 lives | 2.06 |
| Chugai Pharmaceutical | Treat haemophilia patients with its Hemlibra product, which is the current standard of care for treating the condition. | JPY 176.7 billion spent on research and development | 1.34 |
| Danaher | Advance patient health and improve treatment outcomes through solutions that enable superior clinical decision‑making, research, and manufacturing of therapeutics. | Approximately 55.4 million patients treated by the company's devices | 2.58 |
| Eli Lilly | Increase access to truly innovative care in diasbetes, Alzheimer's disease, and oncology. | Delivery of medical treatments helped treat 58 million people extend approximately 2,960 lives | 3.56 |
| Hamamatsu Photonics | Improve the detection of health care issues through better imaging as well as improving automotive safety through LiDAR technology. | JPY 13.5 billion spent on research and development | 1.25 |
| Sartorius | Improve patient outcomes by providing products that help make the therapeutic manufacturing process cheaper and more efficient. | EUR 197 million spent on research and development | 0.97 |
| Sartorius Stedim Biotech | Improve patient outcomes by providing products that help make the therapeutic manufacturing process cheaper and more efficient. | EUR 136 million spent on research and development | 0.67 |
| Sonova | Help diagnose and address hearing loss for patients and enhance their quality of life. | Approximately 5 million patients treated by the company's hearing devices | 1.61 |
| Stryker | Provide innovative solutions that improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients. | Approximately 150 million patients served by the company's devices | 1.98 |
| Thermo Fisher Scientific | Provide innovative solutions to help improve life for patients and therapeutic research and development outcomes. | Approximately 1.12 million patients served by the company's devices | 2.38 |
| UnitedHealth | Provide a health care safety net while improving coverage for aging populations and pursuing cost reduction initiatives. | Approximately 50.6 million health insurance lives covered | 1.80 |
| Veeva Systems | Enabling health care companies to engage in faster and more accurate clinical trials and achieve better health care outcomes. | Veeva Systems' software solutions serve roughly 1,477 customers | 0.66 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Intuitive Surgical
Pressure Point
Robotic surgical systems dramatically improve patient outcomes, reducing postoperative complications and recovery times1. While we are excited by the prospect of future technological advancements in the field, pricing for surgical robots remains high. This can lead to socioeconomic and geographic inequality with respect to accessing the benefits of this technology.
Impact Thesis
Intuitive Surgical is the global leader in robotic-assisted, minimally invasive surgery. Their da Vinci surgical robot helps reduce surgical complications and ultimately enhances patients’ outcomes3. For example, their latest technology allows for haptic feedback, which helps limit tissue damage and blood loss during the operation and thereby improve patient safety.
Impact Sub Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Good Health and Well-being
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- Intuitive Surgical leads the robotic surgery revolution. Intuitive launched its first da Vinci surgical system in 2000 and has steadily taken share from open and laparoscopic surgery. Intuitive is enhancing its digital and artificial intelligence capabilities to improve the surgical experience for clinicians and patients, positioning itself as a crucial partner for hospitals.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Investment into research and development focused on robotic surgery
- USD 1,145 million in R&D expense2
Output
Innovative robotic surgery tools
- 9,902 da Vinci surgical systems installed globally2
- 1,526 da Vinci surgical systems placed in 20242
Outcome
Patients treated with more effective surgical tools, improving clinical outcomes and patient experience
- 2.68 million procedures performed on da Vinci systems in 20242
Impact
Improvement of patient outcomes
- 2,240 lives extended3
Engagement
- We engaged with Intuitive to discuss their product innovation outlook. We are encouraged by the company's recent launch of diverse robots, leasing options, and innovative instruments which should broaden the company’s customer base. We believe these steps will improve accessibility and therefore further the company’s impact.
Sources/references:
1 Bergholz, M., Ferle, M. & Weber, B.M. The benefits of haptic feedback in robot assisted surgery and their moderators: a meta-analysis.
2 Intuitive Surgical 2024 10-K annual report.
3 Net Purpose estimates. Estimate calculated versus baseline.
Top 10 Industries:
Software
Application software enhances efficiency throughout the value chain, helping customers minimize their environmental impact or fostering SME development.
Below are the companies associated with this industry and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autodesk | Facilitate building and manufacturing processes that are more efficient in energy and raw material use. | Autodesk helps 396,333 customers with their industrial research & development activities | 1.92 |
| Docusign | Improve paper-use practices and reduce waste by moving legacy processes onto digital platform. | Electronic signature software services helped mitigate 944,164 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 0.74 |
| Fortinet | Provide cyber protection for cloud and data center operations powered by energy-efficient solutions. | Over 830,000 enterprises protected by Fortinet solutions | 2.01 |
| HubSpot | Enable financial inclusion by providing affordable technology solutions to SMEs powered by energy efficient solutions. | Supported approximately 248,000 SMEs | 1.64 |
| Intuit | Promote financial inclusion using new technology to help consumers and SMEs. | Supported 18,000 jobs and 100 million SMEs approximately | 1.68 |
| Roper Technologies | Increase resource efficiency. | Cloud-based productivity software helped mitigate approximately 1.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 2.55 |
| Synopsys | Enabling innovative chip design that improves energy efficiency and reduces the digital divide. | USD 2,082 million spent on research and development | 2.41 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Top 10 Industries:
Banks
Emerging Markets financial institutions enable financial inclusion, retail SME formation and economic growth.
Below are the companies associated with this industry and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nu Holdings | Promote financial inclusion by providing low‑cost services to underserved or unbanked populations. Read case study |
Supported 30 million underbanked customers approximately | 1.32 |
| Asia Commercial Bank | Increasing financial inclusion in Vietnam, enabling economic growth and reduction in financial inequalities. | Loans to SMEs helped create approximately 48,000 jobs | 1.41 |
| Axis Bank | Increase financial inclusion for retail and micro, small, and medium enterprises in India. | Supported 3.9 million underbanked customers and helped create 120,000 jobs approximately | 1.21 |
| Bank Central Asia | Supporting financial inclusion in Indonesia. | Supported 14.7 million underbanked customers and helped create 65,382 jobs approximately | 1.73 |
| Bank Rakyat Indonesia | Supporting financial inclusion in Indonesia. | Supported 2.4 million underbanked customers and helped create 455,000 jobs approximately | 1.50 |
| Kotak Mahindra Bank | Enable financial inclusion within India by reducing the financing barriers underbanked groups face. | Supported 500,000 underbanked customers and helped create 115,000 jobs approximately | 2.07 |
| Popular | Enable financial inclusion in Puerto Rico by providing banking and credit solutions in underserved communities through the bank's large physical presence. | Supported 113,000 underbanked customers approximately | 1.96 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Nu Holdings
Pressure Point
Globally, 1.4 billion people remain unbanked lacking access to financial institutions or a mobile money provider1. Financial system access through basic banking access is critical to economic progression and social equity. A basic bank account facilitates safer, easier, and more affordable transfers of wages, government payments, remittances, and bill payments, improving overall financial stability.
Impact Thesis
Nu, one of the world’s largest digital banking platforms contributes to financial empowerment through its low-cost digital banking platform, providing access to the financial system for customers that have been significantly underbanked. Their financial services also support small businesses, which contributes to job creation and ultimately economic growth.
Impact Sub-Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Reduced Inequalities
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- Nu is one of the world’s largest digital banking platforms, launched in Brazil and expanding in Latin America with strong brand affinity. Its pure digital model leads to low-cost financial products offering and allows for a robust credit underwriting model.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Financing retail and small and medium enterprises in Brazil, Colombia, Mexico
- USD 28.9 billion of customer deposits2
Output
Loans targeting increased access to financial services
- USD 20.7 billion of credit cards and loans issued to retail customers3
Outcome
- Underserved populations can better assimilate into the economy.
- SME businesses can invest to grow or maintain their business.
Impact
Increasing financial inclusion
- 30 million people provided their first credit/debit card4
- Customers saved USD 11 billion in banking fees4
Engagement
- We engaged with Nu on their product roadmap and how they plan to expand their digital presence. Being purely digital allows Nu to provide low-cost banking services to the underbanked. Further enhancements in its online offerings could reduce the risk of loans becoming non-performing and increase the asset quality of the bank.
Sources/references:
1 World Bank
2 Nubank 2024 Annual Report
3 Nubank Q4 2024 Earnings release report
4 Nubank 2024 ESG report. Data for the 2014-2024 period.
Top 10 Industries:
Pharmaceuticals
Pharmaceutical companies provide innovative medical treatment at scale to improve patient outcomes.
Below are the companies associated with this industry and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| AstraZeneca | Push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines, while increasing access to essential medicines. | Delivery of medical treatments helped extend approximately 85,408 lives | 2.06 |
| Chugai Pharmaceutical | Treat haemophilia patients with its Hemlibra product, which is the current standard of care for treating the condition. | JPY 176.7 billion spent on research and development | 1.34 |
| Eli Lilly | Increase access to truly innovative care in diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and oncology. | Delivery of medical treatments helped treat 58 million people extend approximately 2,960 lives | 3.56 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Top 10 Industries:
Life Sciences Tools & Services
Life science tools companies help drive innovation and reduce manufacturing cost in healthcare which improves patient outcomes.
Below are the companies associated with this industry and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Danaher | Advance patient health and improve treatment outcomes through solutions that enable superior clinical decision‑making, research, and manufacturing of therapeutics. | Approximately 55.4 million patients treated by the company's devices | 2.58 |
| Sartorius | Improve patient outcomes by providing products that help make the therapeutic manufacturing process cheaper and more efficient. | EUR 197 million spent on research and development | 0.97 |
| Sartorius Stedim Biotech | Improve patient outcomes by providing products that help make the therapeutic manufacturing process cheaper and more efficient. | EUR 136 million spent on research and development | 0.67 |
| Thermo Fisher Scientific | Provide innovative solutions to help improve life for patients and therapeutic research and development outcomes. | Approximately 1.12 million patients served by the company's devices | 2.38 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Top 10 Industries:
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment
Companies in the semiconductor ecosystem improve energy efficiency across the value chain, resulting in significant reductions in emissions.
Below are the companies associated with this industry and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASML | Through innovation in chip manufacturing, enable energy efficiency and digital connections. | Downstream energy efficiency gains through products helped mitigate approximately 2.8 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.68 |
| First Solar | Help the shift to renewables and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in electricity generation. | Solar PV modules helped mitigate 9.1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 0.93 |
| Infineon Technologies | Support electrification and energy efficiency. | Products helped mitigate 130.3 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.66 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Top 10 Industries:
Health Care Equipment & Supplies
Healthcare equipment companies provide medical technology such as robotic surgery or orthopedics which improves patient outcomes.
Below are the companies associated with this industry and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intuitive Surgical | Make surgery more effective, less invasive, and easier on patients and surgeons through advanced robotics. Read case study |
Surgical procedures assisted by Intuitive's da Vinci robotic systems helped helped extend approximately 2,440 lives | 2.03 |
| Sonova | Help diagnose and address hearing loss for patients and enhance their quality of life. | Approximately 5 million patients treated by the company's hearing devices | 1.61 |
| Stryker | Provide innovative solutions that improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients. | Approximately 150 million patients served by the company's devices | 1.98 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Intuitive Surgical
Pressure Point
Robotic surgical systems dramatically improve patient outcomes, reducing postoperative complications and recovery times1. While we are excited by the prospect of future technological advancements in the field, pricing for surgical robots remains high. This can lead to socioeconomic and geographic inequality with respect to accessing the benefits of this technology.
Impact Thesis
Intuitive Surgical is the global leader in robotic-assisted, minimally invasive surgery. Their da Vinci surgical robot helps reduce surgical complications and ultimately enhances patients’ outcomes3. For example, their latest technology allows for haptic feedback, which helps limit tissue damage and blood loss during the operation and thereby improve patient safety.
Impact Sub Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Good Health and Well-being
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- Intuitive Surgical leads the robotic surgery revolution. Intuitive launched its first da Vinci surgical system in 2000 and has steadily taken share from open and laparoscopic surgery. Intuitive is enhancing its digital and artificial intelligence capabilities to improve the surgical experience for clinicians and patients, positioning itself as a crucial partner for hospitals.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Investment into research and development focused on robotic surgery
- USD 1,145 million in R&D expense2
Output
Innovative robotic surgery tools
- 9,902 da Vinci surgical systems installed globally2
- 1,526 da Vinci surgical systems placed in 20242
Outcome
Patients treated with more effective surgical tools, improving clinical outcomes and patient experience
- 2.68 million procedures performed on da Vinci systems in 20242
Impact
Improvement of patient outcomes
- 2,240 lives extended3
Engagement
- We engaged with Intuitive to discuss their product innovation outlook. We are encouraged by the company's recent launch of diverse robots, leasing options, and innovative instruments which should broaden the company’s customer base. We believe these steps will improve accessibility and therefore further the company’s impact.
Sources/references:
1 Bergholz, M., Ferle, M. & Weber, B.M. The benefits of haptic feedback in robot assisted surgery and their moderators: a meta-analysis.
2 Intuitive Surgical 2024 10-K annual report.
3 Net Purpose estimates. Estimate calculated versus baseline.
Top 10 Industries:
Commercial Services & Supplies
Commercial services companies include environmental and facilities services such as waste management and water treatment companies.
Below are the companies associated with this industry and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSA Safety | Protect workers from injuries and health-threatening incidents. Read case study |
Over 40 million workers protected by personal protection equipment | 1.43 |
| SPIE | Help customers increase energy efficiency, scale up renewable energy projects, and reduce emissions. Read case study |
Renovation of buildings helped mitigate 33,827 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.33 |
| Veralto | Help support cleaner and more efficient water supply at scale and enhance product quality and safety. |
Veralto's treatment solutions helped save 322 million cubic meters of water | 1.02 |
| Waste Connections | Enable improved waste recycling rates while mitigating methane emissions from waste. | Recycling operations helped mitigate 21.6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 2.14 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
MSA Safety
Pressure Point
Approximately 2 million people die each year because of occupational accidents or work-related diseases globally, with around 360 million work-related injuries1. Providing a safe working environment has positive implications for employee safety and improved mental and physical health. This can feed through into better organizational performance and higher employee satisfaction.
Impact Thesis
MSA Safety is a manufacturer of safety equipment whose products help to save lives. The company’s core products include self-contained breathing apparatus, fixed gas and flame detection systems, portable gas detection instruments, fire and rescue helmets, and fall-protection devices.
Impact Sub Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Decent Work and Economic Growth
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- MSA Safety is the market leader in firefighter safety and gas detection and a leading competitor in industrial personal protection equipment. We think the safety product industry is an attractive market given rational competition, pricing power, and reoccurring need for safety products.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Investment in design, development and manufacturing of safety equipment
- USD 66.5 million invested in R&D2
Output
Manufacturing and distribution of safety equipment
Outcome
Safety equipment helps workers perform their jobs more safely
Impact
>40 million workers protected in 20242
Engagement
- We engaged with MSA Safety on its strategy to accelerate the impact of its business activities. In the near-term, the company is looking to grow in detection and diversify the geographic footprint of its firefighting business. We also provide feedback on the company’s impact disclosure and make several suggestions for further improvement.
Sources/references:
1 International Labor Organization.
2 MSA Safety 2024 Annual Report.
SPIE
Pressure Point
Energy consumption in buildings contributes to 17.5% of global GHG emissions.1 In EU households about 79% of energy is consumed for space and water heating and cooling.2 To meet the Paris Agreement goal to limit the global average temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, it is essential to reduce GHG emissions from buildings.
Impact Thesis
SPIE helps European customers achieve energy efficiency and emission reduction goals by providing engineering and efficiency services to a wide range of end markets. Solutions include installation, replacement, or maintenance of energy efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in buildings, energy efficient building renovations, and operating voltage systems in transmission networks.
Impact Sub Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Affordable and Clean Energy
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- SPIE is the largest independent multi-technical services provider in Europe, providing mechanical, electrical and HVAC engineering that help customers achieve energy efficiency and emission reduction goals. We expect the company to benefit from European infrastructure stimulus and energy transition plans.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Investment to enhance expertise in low-carbon engineering services consulting and support customers achieve their decarbonisation ambitions:
- EUR 9,919 million in revenues3
Output
Innovative engineering services that help customers reduce energy consumption, deploy renewable energy, and reduce GHG emissions
Outcome
Infrastructure maintenance, replacement and upgrading to enable the energy transition and improve energy efficiency
Impact
33,827 mtCO2e GHG emissions avoided by customers from renovation of buildings4
Engagement
- SPIE provides high-quality sustainability reporting. During our most recent engagement, we offered feedback on their impact on KPI disclosures. Currently, they report the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions avoided from selected energy efficiency projects. We encouraged them to develop an aggregate measure of GHG emissions avoided, which they are currently working on.
Sources/references:
1 Ourworldindata.org.
2 European Commission.
3 SPIE 2024 Annual Report.
4 Net Purpose estimate.
Top 10 Industries:
Electronic Equipment Instruments & Components
Electronic equipment companies provide critical parts to environmental and healthcare solutions such as sensors or connectors.
Below are the companies associated with this industry and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta Electronics | Offer wide range of products and services designed to enhance energy efficiency. | Products sold helped mitigate 15.2 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.61 |
| Hamamatsu Photonics | Improve the detection of health care issues through better imaging as well as improving automotive safety through LiDAR technology. | JPY 13.5 billion spent on research and development | 1.25 |
| Keyence | Reducing manufacturing waste, improving industrial efficiency, and increasing safety in the workplace. | USD 187.2 million spent on research and development | 1.59 |
| TE Connectivity | Enable the transition and adoption of EVs and enhance safety and autonomy features through connectivity solutions. | Solutions helped mitigate 334 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.09 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Top 10 Industries:
Machinery
Machinery companies include multi-industrial companies that enable environmental solutions such as metering or flow control products.
Below are the companies associated with this industry and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deere | Promote precision and sustainable agriculture. Read case study |
Agricultural equipment sold helped mitigate approximately 10.8 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.90 |
| IDEX | Supply engineered solutions to create efficiencies in manufacturing, life sciences, and health care. | USD 178.6 million spent on research and development | 2.03 |
| Ingersoll Rand | Increase energy efficiency while allowing customers to reduce their carbon footprint. | Products helped mitigate 34.2 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.53 |
| Xylem | Help customers mitigate water scarcity, optimize water systems to improve water affordability, prevent stormwater pollution. | Xylem products helped save 1 billion cubic meters of water | 1.11 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Deere
Pressure Point
As global populations continue to grow, so does the strain on the global food system and the land that is required to sustain it. Precision agriculture technology can help ease the burden, as such solutions can help farmers increase crop production while reducing energy, fertiliser, and pesticide use1.
Impact Thesis
Deere advances sustainable agriculture through precision technologies that boost crop yields while reducing fertilizer and energy use, and emissions. Its solutions improve farmer productivity and environmental outcomes. Beyond agriculture, Deere develops electric and hybrid machinery in construction and forestry, scaling efficiency and sustainability gains across multiple sectors.
Impact Sub Pillar
Primary UN SDG
Industry
What do we like about the business?
- Deere has a dominant position in the agricultural machinery market. The company’s well-established brand, existing customer relationships, extensive dealer network, and, of increasing importance, developing precision agriculture technologies provide a sizeable economic moat and durable pricing power.
How much impact has been delivered?
Input
Investment into innovative precision agriculture technology, machinery, tools, systems and related services
- USD 2,290 million in R&D expense2
Output
Manufacturing of advanced precision agriculture technologies that enable farmers to improve yield with less fertiliser input3
- 775,000 connected machines
- 197 million unique acres incorporating two or more precision technologies or sustainable practices over a 12-month period
Outcome
Improved farmer productivity and environmental outcomes4
- 17% improvement in crop protection efficiency
- 2% improvement in nitrogen use efficiency
- 5% reduction in customer GHG emissions
Impact
GHG emissions avoided
- 10.8 million mtCO2e emissions avoided5
Engagement
- We engaged with Deere to provide feedback on its impact reporting and to discuss risks to its impact thesis. We shared our insights on enhancing the company’s impact reporting by suggesting additional impact KPIs. The company valued our feedback and plans to incorporate these suggestions in future impact reports.
Sources/references:
1 Association of Equipment Manufacturers (2024). “The environmental benefits of precision agriculture quantified”.
2 Deere 2024 Annual Report.
3 Deere 2024 Business Impact Report.
4 Deere 2024 Business Impact Report. Progress reported based on 2023 results compared to a 2021 baseline.
5 TRPA estimate.
Top 10 Industries:
Electrical Equipment
Below are the companies associated with this industry and the impact they aim to create.
| Company | Impact Goal | KPI | % of Fund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hubbell | Enable electricity grid resilience through modernization and electrification, while also integrating renewables. | Products helped mitigate 87,037 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.91 |
| Rockwell Automation | Help customers improve productivity and reduce energy use and emissions for numerous industrial processes. | USD 477 million spent on research and development | 1.62 |
| Schneider Electric | Enable electrification and industrial digitization, thus reducing emissions. | Products helped mitigate 126 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) | 1.66 |
| Vertiv | Enable datacenters and telecommunications networks to reduce their carbon footprint. | Cooling solution technology helped save 25,55 cubic meters of water | 1.33 |
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.
Impact outcomes
The companies in which the Global Impact Equity Fund invests deliver positive contributions across several areas of impact. While the absolute level of impact associated with each company may be sizable, the extent to which impact is associated with any one strategy naturally relies on the level of investment made. As such, the below data1 are presented in two ways: (1) in aggregate at the company level and (2) normalised to represent the impact associated with USD 1 million invested in the Global Impact Equity Fund.
980.4 million
metric tons of CO2e2 avoided at the company level
198
metric tons of CO2e avoided per USD 1 million invested
ASML, Brookfield Renewable Partners, Canadian National Railway, Deere, Delta Electronics, Docusign, First Solar, Hubbell, Infineon Technologies, Ingersoll Rand, Linde, National Grid, PG&E, Roper Technologies, Schneider Electric, SPIE, TE Connectivity, Tesla, Trane Technologies, Waste Connections, Xylem
1.3 billion
cubic meters of water saved at the company level
494
cubic meters of water saved per USD 1 million invested
Veralto, Vertiv, Xylem, Docusign
3.3 million
metric tons of waste avoided at the company level
2
metric tons of waste avoided per USD 1 million invested
Trex, Waste Connections, Docusign
406.3 million
patients treated at the company level
46
patients treated per USD 1 million invested
Intuitive Surgical, Sonova, Stryker, Danaher, Thermo Fisher Scientific, AstraZeneca, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Eli Lilly
54.7 million
underbanked people served3 at the company level
12
underbanked people served per USD 1 million invested
Axis Bank, Bank Central Asia, Bank Rakyat Indonesia, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Nu Holdings, Popular, OneMain, Chailease
3.65 billion
people provided with access to safe drinking water and sanitation at the company level
1303
people provided with access to safe drinking water and sanitation per USD 1 million invested
Linde, Veralto
Read the full annual report
Our 30+ page report contains:
Portfolio alignment and changes (pg. 5)
Impact outcomes and case studies (pg. 7)
Active ownership (pg. 14)
Thematic insights
Jul 2025
From the Field
What’s the outlook for the global energy transition?
Taking stock of the energy transition—are we making any progress?
Feb 2025
From the Field
Spotlight on plastic pollution in impact investing
Aug 2024
ESG
Could GLP-1s help rebalance the food trilemma?
Anti-obesity medications could play a key role in balancing the food trilemma.
Jul 2024
EQUITY
Artificial intelligence, health care, and energy transition: Three areas of focus for impact
How innovations in artificial intelligence, health care, and the energy transition can create value.
The Global Impact Equity Fund
Since the launch of the fund in 2021, we have made several refinements to:
- Strengthen investment process and improve data quality.
- Enhance impact reporting focused on transparency and the environmental / social impact of investments.
- Improve our engagement with the management teams of the companies that we own to increase our understanding of real-world impact.
For the latest portfolio holdings, positioning and reports, visit our detailed product page.
1 For illustrative purposes only. The impact outcomes provided here can be susceptible to potential inconsistencies due to lack of precise information. Companies do not measure or report in a consistent or uniform way. Where information is not available, we have not included a company’s contribution within the impact outcome. This means that these estimates may actually be conservative, but as companies get better at measuring impact, we expect these data points to become even more precise. Additionally, normalized data estimates the impact of the portfolio’s holdings and is calculated by multiplying each core impact KPI at the aggregate company level by the fraction of the company’s total enterprise value including cash (EVIC) that is owned by the portfolio based on a hypothetical investment of USD 1 million for the period end. Individual company results may vary significantly and may not achieve the same level of impact in the future. Based on company reported data, T. Rowe Price estimates, and Net Purpose estimates.
2 CO2e: carbon dioxide equivalent or CO2 equivalent. This metric is used to compare the emissions from various greenhouse gases on the basis of their global warming potential by converting amounts of other gases to the equivalent amount of carbon dioxide with the same global warming potential. Source: Eurostat.
3 Underbanked refers to people who do not have sufficient access to mainstream financial services.
Additional Disclosures
Holdings shown are for illustrative purposes only and are subject to change without notice.
The specific securities identified and described are for informational purposes only and do not represent recommendations or statement of opinion intended to influence a person or persons in making a decision in relation to investment. The specific securities identified and described do not represent all of the securities purchased, sold, or recommended for the portfolio, and no assumptions should be made that the securities identified and discussed were or will be profitable. T. Rowe Price may have ongoing business and/or client relationships with the companies mentioned in the report.
The use of impact key performance indicators ("KPI") is not intended to provide a forward-looking view on the likely performance of each issuer held in the portfolio. Instead, it is intended to document how we will assess the positive additional impact that each issuer’s economic activities are having on the real world. For example, we would note that increasing revenue streams from sustainable economic activities does not necessarily equate to increasing profits, nor does it necessarily equate to positive share price performance. Our investment analysis will also focus on the profitability and perceived value of each issuer and their sustainable initiatives, but this does not form part of the impact KPI.
Important Information
Equity Trustees Limited (“Equity Trustees”) (ABN: 46 004 031 298, AFSL: 240975), is the Responsible Entity for the T. Rowe Price Australian Unit Trusts ("the Fund"). Equity Trustees is a subsidiary of EQT Holdings Limited (ABN: 22 607 797 615), a publicly listed company on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX: EQT).
This material has been prepared by T. Rowe Price Australia Limited ("TRPAU") (ABN: 13 620 668 895, AFSL: 503741) to provide you with general information only. In preparing this information, we did not take into account the investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs of any particular person. It is not intended to take the place of professional advice and you should not take action on specific issues in reliance on this information. Neither TRPAU, Equity Trustees nor any of its related parties, their employees or directors, provide and warranty of accuracy or reliability in relation to such information or accepts any liability to any person who relies on it.
Past performance is not a guarantee or a reliable indicator of future results.You should obtain a copy of the Product Disclosure Statement, which is available from Equity Trustees (www.eqt.com.au/insto) or TRPAU (www.troweprice.com.au/investor), before making a decision about whether to invest in the Fund named in this material.
The Fund’s Target Market Determination is available here www.eqt.com.au/trprice. It describes who this financial product is likely to be appropriate for (i.e. the target market), and any conditions around how the product can be distributed to investors. It also describes the events or circumstances where the Target Market Determination for this financial product may need to be reviewed.
Information and opinions presented have been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness. There is no guarantee that any forecasts made will come to pass. The views contained herein are as of the date noted on the material and are subject to change without notice; these views may differ from those of other T. Rowe Price group companies and/or associates. Under no circumstances should the material, in whole or in part, be copied or redistributed without consent from T. Rowe Price.
202511-4836196
Impact Sub Pillar:
Enabling Social Equity
Promotes equality and inclusiveness by providing services to underserved communities, enhancing education access, and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Below are the companies associated with this sub pillar and the impact they aim to create.
Read case study
Company specific data were provided by the company during an ESG engagement or are available through company reports. Information presented has been obtained or derived from sources believed to be reliable and current; however, we cannot guarantee the sources' accuracy or completeness.
Data shown for the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund as of December 31, 2024. Subject to change without notice. The securities shown represent 100% of the publicly traded securities held in the portfolio.
No securities were assigned to the Sustainable Innovation and Productivity pillar at the end of the period.