Suncorp has spelled out the company’s views on climate change and outlined its actions to promote mitigation after comments by CEO Michael Cameron prompted concerns he was downplaying human influences on global warming.

“Suncorp accepts the weight of scientific evidence that our climate is changing and that humans are contributing,” the company said in a statement.

The insurer says it recognises the frequency and severity of natural hazard events affect the community and its business, and in the past year it has promoted industry change.

“Our general insurance business is publicly advocating for greater investment in natural disaster mitigation to better protect property and communities, while addressing affordability issues by reducing the risk.

“Our focus is to work with governments and the community to identify ways of mitigating the effects of extreme weather events.”

Mr Cameron was quoted in The Australian Financial Review as saying “the extent of influence by humans is still difficult to quantify”, when asked if he believes climate change is caused by human activity.

The comments sparked concern among some shareholders, including Future Super, which describes itself as Australia’s first fossil fuel free superannuation fund.

Future Super MD Simon Sheikh told insuranceNEWS.com.au that the statements by Suncorp to clarify its position had not completely allayed his concerns.

“We feel that Suncorp should be active in pushing governments to act, given the vested interest the company has in climate mitigation,” he said.

Suncorp’s statement also highlights the company’s Protecting the North microsite, which promotes mitigation to reduce cyclone damage and curb home insurance costs.

The company says it uses external managers for its investment portfolios, with a small component in equities.

“These funds are managed by reputable fund managers who subscribe to the US Principles of Responsible Investment, which ensure that environmental, social and governance risks are taken into account.”