Oxford University is now required to divest all fossil fuel holdings from its £3.4bn (€3.8bn) endowment fund. The motion also requires endowment managers to request evidence of net-zero carbon business plans from companies across Oxford’s entire portfolio of investments.
The resolution was passed by Congregation (decision-making body of the university). To ensure this resolution is followed, the Investment Committee will have a new member who is experienced in endowment management and climate-conscious investment.
However, they are not required to divest from companies outside the fossil fuel sector who do not have net-zero business plans. Furthermore, many Oxford colleges have separate endowment investment policies which may still allow investment in fossil fuels.