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Sponsored post with Shepherds Friendly: ISAs, Investments & Insurance
Sustainable investing is not a new concept it’s just not talked about very often. It’s no secret that banks in the past have been caught out for their unethical practises, from exploration for fossil fuels to funding nuclear weapons.
Have you ever thought about where the money in your bank gets invested?
Do you know how your bank uses your money?
Are you investing your money in ethical and sustainable practices?
Most people do not know the answers to those questions.
What a lot of people don’t know is that your money in the bank doesn’t just sit in an account waiting for you to use it. The banks use your money to fund projects and initiatives around the world and some that cause harm to our environment, unless of course you’re with a sustainable and ethical bank.
Sustainable Investing
So what is sustainable investing and why is it important? Sustainable investing takes into account social, environmental and governance ethics. It enables the individual to choose investments that match their values and beliefs.
The great thing about sustainable investing is that you have the power to change the world just by putting your money in the hands of the right people. You can make a positive difference not only to our society but also the planet. It doesn’t require any effort on your part other than finding sustainable investment opportunities. Once you put your money in the company does the rest.
Things to consider when choosing a sustainable and ethical bank and ways to invest your money include:
- Whether the bank/business owns their own brands
- Do they invest in fossil fuels
- Human rights
- Tax avoidance
Before you think about using a certain company for investing your money make sure they have been 100% clear on how they invest your money! Ask them for a copy of their ethical investment policies and if they don’t have one that’s a big red flag.
Aim to find a company that doesn’t fund climate change. Once you start looking into it further you’d be amazed how many do.
Another great thing about sustainable investing is that anyone can do it. It’s not something that is reserved for the rich. Most people these days need a bank account and you can make sure your money is being used in a sustainable way just by switching your account. If you have savings you can also open a sustainable ISA. These days you can even get a suitable ISA for your children which sets them up in the right direction from the very start when it comes to investing their money sustainable
Investing for a Better World
A company called Shepherds Friendly has introduced a new Sustainable Stocks and Shares ISA and Sustainable Junior ISA, which aim to make a positive difference to society by investing with companies that are leading the transition to a low carbon economy or driving social and economic development. Whilst also aiming to achieve a positive return on investments.
Why Choose a Sustainable Stocks & Shares ISA?
- You can invest your money according to your values and beliefs
- You can make a positive difference to the world
- Your money will be used to fund sustainable & innovative companies
- You can rest assured that your money will not be used to fund climate change
Investing In A Better Future For Your Children
As the saying goes the children are our future. They are the ones that will ultimately have to live with the decisions we make today. By opening a sustainable junior ISA you’re investing in their future.
So do you know where your money is going and what it’s funding? If not why not find out today? Contact your bank and ask to see their ethical investment polices. If you find that it’s not being invested in the way you want it to, consider switching to an ethical and sustainable bank. I’ve found this guide by Ethical Consumer to be particularly helpful.
header image by Precondo CA on Unsplash
About Gina Caro
Gina is a content creator and award-winning blogger. Her aim is to help you live a more sustainable & simple life. Her blog covers zero waste, minimalism, wellbeing & thrift. She currently lives in Cornwall with her partner, two kids and Charles the dog.
