Christopher Metrakos: Ontario Teachers’ has a long history of owning timberland assets, but in 2013, we created a specific natural resources strategy. The diversified C$10 billion portfolio includes assets in oil and gas, metals, agriculture and aquaculture, timberland and natural climate solutions, with many of our investments giving us a controlling position.
When you’re investing in assets like metals, timberland or agriculture, taking control positions with the ability to influence operations means that we can support better direct engagement with local communities and influence environmental improvements. In our view, investing actively in this way is not only the right way to conduct business but will result in stronger performance over time.