Corporate polluters are seeking short-term profit at the expense of a sustainable economy, which threatens our planet, our communities, and puts our retirement savings at risk.  

It doesn't have to be this way. 

Each year, public companies hold shareholder meetings to vote on critical issues, including the climate crisis. At these meetings, public pension funds are among the most influential investors. While they serve public sector workers, they are funded by taxpayers, meaning that all of us can help influence these votes!

Dear friend,

In the fight for a livable planet, everyone knows elections are important. From school board to presidential races, elections are a key part of how we build power and bring key issues to the forefront of national politics.

But did you know that every spring, big corporations hold their own elections?

Public companies -- including utilities, manufacturers, automakers, and banks -- hold annual meetings for their shareholders to review the company's finances and vote on key strategic issues. 

Every year, there are hundreds of climate-related proposals up for vote, including:

• Requests for companies to report their greenhouse gas emissions
• Proposals to align their lobbying strategy with their stated climate goals
• Options to take action to address deforestation

These resolutions can shape how some of the largest companies in the world will act -- whether responsibly and sustainably, or with short-sighted greed.

Many of us are feeling the impact of corporate greed -- grocery prices are higher, utility bills have gone up, and home insurance is more expensive. One reason for this is that climate change is making the economy less stable. Big companies play a role in this problem, but they can also be part of the solution. The good news is that everyday people can help push these companies to act more responsibly.

Some of the biggest investors in these companies are public pension funds -- money set aside for the retirement of teachers, firefighters, and other workers. These funds have the power to influence company decisions. 

And while state pension funds serve public sector workers, they are funded by taxpayers. So, if the climate crisis negatively impacts their portfolios, taxpayers will be on the hook to pay the difference. 

This spring, they will vote on important issues that affect people's financial security and the environment. By speaking up, you can encourage them to support choices that protect both our economy and our planet. Tell your state's pension fund to vote for a better future!

In solidarity,

Ben Cushing
Director, Sustainable Finance Campaign
Sierra Club

P.S. To stay updated on how you can advocate for a sustainable financial future, text SIERRA to 69866 to receive timely mobile alerts!