Experts to talk on ethical investment and climate change

Renewable energy:investing in the future
The structure of the world-wide economy has been criticised for many years as being responsible for environmental degradation. The moral and ethical values of investors and lenders have come under the spotlight in recent months as the major cause of the so-called economic crisis. As governments around the world inject tax-payer money into failing economies and debate about who will take the lead on climate change, there are a number of steps, we as individuals, can take.
Sunshine Coast hinterland residents have the opportunity to hear James Thier and Karen McLeod discuss ethical investment and climate change at a seminar to be held on Thursday July 30.
They believe that changing your investments and superannuation to an ethical fund manager is one of the most important ways individuals can make real, positive change in the fight against climate change and a range of other environmental and social issues. Ethically managed funds in Australia have risen from $325 million in 2000 to $17.62 billion in 2008.
Founding director of Australian Ethical Investment and Superannuation, James Thier said: " Ethical investment is about making sure you know what your money is doing. If you’re making personal efforts to reduce your water and energy use, taking public transport and recycling, then your money should be working to make a positive difference too”.
As individuals it's often hard to make your way through the maze of greenwash. As this recent article, World's most unliveable city discusses.
Certified financial planner and authorised representative of Ethical Investment Advisers (EIA), Karen McLeod said: "Investors are often unsure which ethical investments are right for them. We help investors decide. We discuss both their financial needs and ethical values -- bringing to light the investment areas that clients wish to avoid or support. Then, drawing on comprehensive ethical and financial research, we advise which investments are suitable. This process gives investors the reassurance that they are making informed decisions about their investments".
James Thier has helped the company grow from an idealistic concept 22 years ago to now managing more than $530 million on behalf of 18,000 investors and super members across Australia. James is also a Churchill Fellow, having recently travelled to the US and Europe to research shareholder advocacy.
Karen McLeod has spent years working at traditional financial planning firms, and consequently realised her personal desire to help clients invest without compromising their values. She is a certified financial adviser with the Responsible Investment Association Australasia (RIAA).
EIA specialise in environmental and socially responsible investment. It is an independent company, with no affiliations to banks or other financial institutions, and offers a fee for service model. Their clients are found in the Maleny area, as well as throughout Australia.
Ethical Investment and Climate Change Seminar
6.15pm to 7.30pm, Thursday 30th July
Deck Room, Tranquil Park Resort, 483 Mountain View Road, Maleny
RSVPs for the seminar can be sent to Karen McLeod: kmcleod@ethicalinvestment.com.au, or by phoning 07 3876 2377.
Related articles:
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- Hans Baer: health impacts of climate change
- Denying climate change: it’s a question of morality
- Climate change: and the threat to our biodiversity
- A new climate morality
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