Octopus Investments has launched a Natural Capital Strategy with the objective of generating “high-integrity” carbon removal credits through conservation and land management. The strategy aims to provide investors with attractive, sustainable returns and the opportunity to accelerate the transition to net zero by kick-starting the natural capital economy. It will initially have a UK focus, looking to acquire land-based assets with conservation potential. Octopus will also explore additional revenue streams for each project and locality – including property restoration, biodiversity net gain credits, regenerative agriculture, ecotourism and renewable energy. The strategy will be led by Alex Godfrey, who was recently appointed as Investment Director at the company. Godfrey has more than 15 years of experience in investment banking, venture building and environmental consulting, having joined from Savills, where he was head of natural capital. In his new role, he will focus on the development and delivery of innovative solutions for landowners, investors and policymakers, leveraging his carbon markets, biodiversity, and water expertise. Octopus Investments has targeted an assets under management growth from £13 billion (US$16.3 billion) to £50 billion by 2030, a large portion of which is expected to come from its institutional business. Octopus had already made inroads into natural capital over the past few years, including with the Octopus Sustainable Infrastructure Fund and the Octopus Affordable Housing Fund.
