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Risk assessment from space: Integrating satellite-derived insights for ESG financial decisions

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  • Morales, Adriano Barasal
  • Laurini, Márcio Poletti
  • Vrieling, Anton

Abstract

This paper explores how satellite data can be used in sustainable investment analyses by offering a granular approach that differs from conventional environmental, social and governance (ESG) scores. The paper showcases the spatial relationship between abattoir locations and deforestation in Brazil, using asset-level and land coverage data to assess the environmental risks tied to beef traders’ sourcing practices. This approach provides a tool for investors concerned with climate risks who seek alternatives to existing ESG metrics. The findings highlight the benefits of integrating satellite data to comprehensively address material risks associated with some industries.

Suggested Citation

  • Morales, Adriano Barasal & Laurini, Márcio Poletti & Vrieling, Anton, 2025. "Risk assessment from space: Integrating satellite-derived insights for ESG financial decisions," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 76(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:finlet:v:76:y:2025:i:c:s1544612325002156
    DOI: 10.1016/j.frl.2025.106951
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Torsten Ehlers & Ulrike Elsenhuber & Anandakumar Jegarasasingam & Eric Jondeau, 2022. "Deconstructing ESG scores: how to invest with your own criteria," BIS Working Papers 1008, Bank for International Settlements.
    2. Bjorg Jonsdottir & Throstur Olaf Sigurjonsson & Lara Johannsdottir & Stefan Wendt, 2022. "Barriers to Using ESG Data for Investment Decisions," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(9), pages 1-14, April.
    3. Richard T. Rogers & Richard J. Sexton, 1994. "Assessing the Importance of Oligopsony Power in Agricultural Markets," American Journal of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural and Applied Economics Association, vol. 76(5), pages 1143-1150.
    4. Florian Berg & Julian F Kölbel & Roberto Rigobon, 2022. "Aggregate Confusion: The Divergence of ESG Ratings [Corporate social responsibility and firm risk: theory and empirical evidence]," Review of Finance, European Finance Association, vol. 26(6), pages 1315-1344.
    5. Ammara Hussain & Ammar Oad & Munir Ahmad & Muhammad Irfan & Farhan Saqib, 2021. "Do Financial Development and Economic Openness Matter for Economic Progress in an Emerging Country? Seeking a Sustainable Development Path," JRFM, MDPI, vol. 14(6), pages 1-18, May.
    6. Venturini, Alessio, 2022. "Climate change, risk factors and stock returns: A review of the literature," International Review of Financial Analysis, Elsevier, vol. 79(C).
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Environmental risk assessment; ESG; Asset-level data; Spatial finance; Deforestation; Remote sensing;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G14 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Information and Market Efficiency; Event Studies; Insider Trading
    • C21 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models
    • C11 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General - - - Bayesian Analysis: General

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