History of Sustainable Finance

The notion of considering sustainability in the financial world did not always exist...

Key dates timeline

1700s - John Wesley's novel idea

The founder of the Methodist movement, is credited with the first conscious investment practice. Urging followers to refrain from making investments in 'sin stocks' such as weapons and tobacco.

1971 - Pax World Fund launched

To avoid supporting companies contributing to the Vietnam War, the first sustainable mutual fund is launched.

1988 - Institutions Created

After NASA's James Hansen told a congressional hearing that there was a 'real warming trend', climate change attracted global attention. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) are established.

1997 - Agreements in Japan

The Kyoto Protocol, an international treaty committing to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, is signed by 192 states.

2006 - Principles in Place

The United Nations' Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) is launched to encourage further development of sustainable investing.

2007 - Impact Investing

The term 'impact investing' is coined by the Rockefeller Foundation. Putting a name to investments that intend to generate both a financial return and social impact.

2009 - A Network is Born

The Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN) is created to promote investing with the aim of creating a social benefit.

2015 - Frameworks in France

At COP 21 the Paris Agreement is signed by 196 parties agreeing to meet certain future climate goals.

2020 - The Largest Asset Manager Acts

Larry Fink, founder and CEO of BlackRock, wrote in his annual letter that companies generating more than 25% of revenues from coal production will be removed from their active portfolios.

2021 - Study Shows Sustainable Finance is Significant

The Global Sustainable Investment Alliance (GSIA), found that 35.9% of total assets under management were sustainable as of 2020.

2022 and beyond - You Can Make an Impact

The industry is still growing and getting more attention everyday. Could you be a key part of this exciting future?