ViewedPages.com » Environment » Investing in Green Businesses

Investing in Green Businesses

by: EarthNewsMedia
Total views: 15 | Word Count: 402

For a long time, money used for good will was called charity, while money used to make more money was called investing. No more.

Today, the two ideas are coming together in a financial avenue called socially responsible investing. And both investors and mutual fund operators are learning that this new idea can be profitable, and do some good for the environment and society at the same time.

Bob Guthrie, an investment broker with A.G. Edwards in Burlington, Vt. says, "Socially responsible investing means you don't have to compromise your own personal beliefs to make money on Wall Street - whatever those beliefs are."

Even back in the early 1900's the idea of choosing investments for social reasons occurred when church members formed together and refused to invest in tobacco or alcohol companies. Guthrie also says that the trend has continued with investors dodging corporations associated with the Vietnam War or companies investing in South Africa. And that trend continues today with investors selecting companies that are more environmentally friendly over those that are not.

But growth in this type of investing has mushroomed during the past few years as more and more investors have moved social consciousness into the mainstream of investing. And the impact is being felt.

With help from stockholders, says Rob Kruger, vice president of portfolio management at Progressive Asset Management, business practices concerning the environment are beginning to change, While the issues may differ, he said companies are realizing they will suffer the consequences if they aren't viewed as being socially responsible.

"As this investing community continues to grow, a lot of proposals are being put forth by investors at annual shareholder meetings," Kruger said. "A whole range of issues and activities is now being addressed."

As part of its operational procedures, Progressive Asset Management conducts research for eco-friendly and socially responsible mutual funds. The firm filters out companies for environmental problems or nuclear involvement or whatever issues their clients are concerned about.

"As time flies, companies are becoming more and more cooperative with us," Kruger said. "Many of them are now very eager to talk about these social and environmental issues."

Guthrie agrees that American corporations and business practices are aware of stockholders who are very concerned with social and environmental responsibility.

"Make sure your hard-earned capital is not invested in companies with little concern for the environment," he advises. "Be sure to keep these things in mind when you invest and companies will too."

About the Author

Earth News Media is a nationally syndicated environmental and global warming news service featuring the positive environmental efforts of individuals, organizations and companies around the world. Learn various green business ideas.

More Articles from: Environment

1: Sustainable Trade Show Displays
    (By: gsgogreendisplays519, On: Oct 31st 2008, Words: 402, Views: 7)
2: Eco Friendly Displays to Let Your Business Go Green
    (By: gsgogreendisplays519, On: Oct 31st 2008, Words: 405, Views: 7)
3: Halt Global Warming and Save Your Life!
    (By: PaulPetersen, On: Aug 2nd 2008, Words: 621, Views: 6)
4: Buying High Pressure Air Compressor
    (By: GuyMorris, On: Jul 16th 2008, Words: 506, Views: 16)
5: A Plumber Fixes Pipes and Water Problems
    (By: LeroyCalstard, On: Jul 12th 2008, Words: 556, Views: 13)
6: Pipe Problems and Leaks are More Likely in Winter
    (By: LeroyCalstard, On: Jul 12th 2008, Words: 542, Views: 14)
7: Plumbing Fixes are Sometimes Easy to Learn
    (By: LeroyCalstard, On: Jul 12th 2008, Words: 542, Views: 13)
8: How You Can Get Your Car to Run On Water Cheaply
    (By: ThomasMarguccio, On: Jul 9th 2008, Words: 524, Views: 15)
9: Saving Our Environment
    (By: StewartM.Russell, On: Jul 9th 2008, Words: 420, Views: 14)

ViewedPages.com » Environment » Investing in Green Businesses