Did you know this year’s Earth Day theme is “Invest in Our Planet”

 

We know the world is filled with frustrated activists hungry to make a difference. Here are 4 ways you can vote with your dollar this Earth Day.

 

1. Invest in Mutual Funds and ETFs with focus on sustainability.

 

US SIF provides an online chart of sustainable mutual funds and exchange-traded funds that are offered by its member firms. That enables investors to compare the funds’ costs, performance, screens and voting records.

 

As You Sow, a non-profit focusing on corporate social responsibility, offers an online tool that compares where funds rank with regard to criteria such as deforestation, fossil fuels, gender equality, guns, weapons, tobacco and prisons.

 

Investment research firm Morningstar also provides ratings of funds based on their sustainability, impact or ESG factors.

 

2. Invest in Real Estate Investment Trusts that own and operate green buildings.

 

Vert Asset Management, a dedicated ESG investment manager, operates the Vert Global Sustainable Real Estate Fund (Ticker: VGSRX), an open-end mutual fund that invests in publicly listed real estate investment trusts (REITs) using evidence-based environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria.

3. Invest in New Cleantech Startups Through Crowdfunding Sites.

 

WeFunder – Through their online portal you can find many exciting sustainability-driven businesses. One of our favorites is for our friends at Bloc Power. The funds raised will go directly to fund energy efficiency, electrification or renewable energy projects—projects that have already been earmarked in New York and California. 

 

Start Engine – Backed by Shark Tank’s Mr. Wonderful, Start Engine enables you to invest, trade and build your startup portfolio. You can invest in cool concepts like Vroom Solar, producing off-grid do-it-yourself solar energy kits for portable applications. 

4. Invest Directly in Climate Tech Companies Offering Regulation A Offerings.

Rayven – Invest directly in the world’s first real estate fund that only owns and operates net zero energy buildings for as little as $250.

 

Aptera – Aptera is a Solar Electric Vehicle company offering investors the opportunity to support their production and development.

There’s never been an easier time to invest in our planet. Stop waiting for Wall Street to do the right thing. Put your dollars to work for our future.