CSR

Investors not following through on climate change concerns

Despite the great majority of US investors being concerned about climate change and interested in alternative energy investments, far fewer reflect these interests in their portfolios, according to research conducted for mutual fund firm Calvert.

The survey questioned 1,094 investors and found 76% are concerned about global warming and what change could mean not only their lifetime, but in that of their children and grandchildren. Furthermore, 85% see investing in alternative energy, such as wind and solar, as a dual opportunity to both support the environment and generate profit.

However, only one in five respondents who use a financial professional have discussed with them investing in alternative energy.

In response to what it calls the "climate change crisis", Calvert has launched a global alternative energy fund which will invest in alternative energy market leaders.

Bennett Freeman, Calvert senior vice president for social research and policy, commented: "Calvert believes that companies across the spectrum of industries must acknowledge and act now to address the climate change crisis ... with the launch of this new fund, we are aligning our investment strategies and policy goals by offering our shareowners the opportunity to invest directly in climate change solutions".

July 2007