Demand for Responsible Investment is increasing

Societies now feel passionate about a range of issues such as the effects of climate change, the use of sweatshops, the production of weapons of mass destruction, the effective use of natural resources, a rapidly growing and ageing population or the corporate, environmental and social practices of companies. The recent Global Financial Crisis made more investors aware of the importance of considering good corporate ethics, governance and environmental issues when examining the future worth of any investment. While Responsible Investment was once considered a fad, today it is a very mainstream investment style with responsible investors coming from all walks of life and across all ages. There are many varied and universal reasons why someone may be motivated to invest responsibly: (a) An interest in social issues, or membership to community, environmental, political or human rights organizations. (b) A scientific background or passion for new energy technologies as a way to solve the problem of climate change. (c) Belonging to a faith-based or other spiritual organization. Or simple enjoyment of being close to nature, and wanting to ensure its preservation.