ethical investing guide

Ethical investment is no longer limited to simple 'green' issues such as pollution, though they remain popular causes. Similar environmental concerns include issues such as battery farming, pesticide and chemical use, organic farming, genetically modified crops and deforestation.

A company with concerns about the moral health of society will avoid doing business with and investing in businesses involved with gambling, pornography, alcohol or tobacco; companies with strictly animal-rights focused policies will avoid most or all types of scientific animal testing, and may even eschew meat and meat processing businesses.

On a global level, investors may have concerns about child labour, arms sales, sustainable development and attention to human rights.

Some investors may wish to direct their funds towards companies that make good corporate neighbours, investing in local community initiatives such as literacy, public housing, or children's or seniors' programmes.

A company's employment policies are just as important to its ethical rating as outside issues. Does it practice equal opportunities, and offer its employees private healthcare and related benefits? Does it offer family-friendly leave and flexible work patterns?