SLM Partners, a leader in regenerative agriculture investments, has achieved a significant milestone with its 2023 impact report. This document marks an important step forward in the accuracy and transparency of environmental outcomes across its portfolios. The report introduces new metrics from the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), enhancing quantitative reporting. Additionally, it includes contributions from local land managers for the first time, providing a comprehensive view of the impact on both the environment and community.

The enhanced reporting framework covers 100% of assets owned for more than nine months, up from 21% in 2022. Despite challenges related to business growth and data collection, SLM Partners has successfully integrated advanced monitoring tools and methodologies. Future reports will focus on presenting historical trends to illustrate long-term improvements in sustainability practices.

Pioneering Transparent Environmental Reporting

SLM Partners has set a new standard in transparent environmental reporting by expanding its coverage and integrating new frameworks. The company's commitment to detailed and accurate data collection has significantly improved the quality of its reports. By adopting TNFD recommendations, SLM has added seven core and sector-specific metrics, ensuring a more comprehensive assessment of environmental impacts. This approach not only enhances transparency but also provides stakeholders with a clearer understanding of the company’s progress.

To achieve this level of precision, SLM utilized data from various sources such as IBAT Key Biodiversity Areas and the WWF physical water risk database. These resources allowed the company to gather more granular and reliable information. Moreover, the inclusion of insights from farmers and foresters who manage SLM’s land adds a human element to the report, making it more relatable and informative. An Environmental Finance IMPACT Awards judge praised the report for being “granular and comprehensive but easy to follow and clear,” highlighting its clarity and compelling impact results.

Overcoming Challenges in Data Collection and Monitoring

As SLM Partners experienced substantial growth over the past three years, expanding from under $200 million to $750 million in assets under management, the complexity of its reporting increased. The company faced the challenge of incorporating diverse investment types into its reports while adapting to new frameworks like TNFD. Alessia Lenders, head of impact at SLM Partners, emphasized the importance of evolving the report alongside the business. Ensuring that the report remained relevant and accurate required significant effort and innovation.

Data collection posed a unique challenge due to the need for precise and context-specific information. Collecting granular data directly from local operators is resource-intensive and carries the risk of inaccuracies. To address this, SLM focused on identifying cost-effective monitoring solutions and selecting relevant datasets. In Europe, the company co-funded a methodology for Mediterranean orchards with Climate Farmers, a German project manager. This methodology is undergoing independent verification and will be implemented across SLM’s Iberian orchards in 2025. Looking ahead, SLM aims to present historical data trends in future reports, showcasing the evolution of environmental impact indicators over time.