Finance supporting the green transition

The transition to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly economy poses daunting challenges. However, despite the best of intentions, obstacles remain : complex regulations, a lack of clarity on criteria pertaining to ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance), and difficulties in measuring the actual impact of investments.

To address this, the University of Strasbourg and CIC CIB have joined forces to create a ‘Finance and the Environment’ chair, led by Maxime Merli. Their aim is to make finance a practical tool for tackling climate change, by combining academic rigour with practical expertise.

A unique collaboration between research and practical expertise

Established in September 2022, renewed in September 2025 and supported by a donation from CIC CIB to the University of Strasbourg Foundation, this chair makes it possible to :

  • Blend different areas of expertise : researchers publish leading academic work, while experts from our Investment team contribute their practical market knowledge.

  • Innovate for clients : the findings inform our approach to managing our investment portfolios by spotlighting environmental considerations.

  • Nurture talent : since 2022, our Investment team has been welcoming work-study students from the University of Strasbourg, ensuring continuity in our research (such as work on measuring emissions from investment portfolios).

Tangible progress towards more responsible finance

By supporting this chair, we are reinforcing our commitment to a financial sector that is more transparent and aligned with climate challenges. After four years in existence, the chair has already enabled us to :

  • Refine the methods used to measure the carbon footprint of our investments.
  • Model environmental performance trajectories for the portfolios managed by our Investment team.
  • Create sustainable momentum, by training professionals to tackle the challenges of the green transition.

Find out more about the ‘Finance and the Environment’ research chair at the University of Strasbourg