Invest
UKSIF rebrands National Ethical Investment Week as Good Money Week
The UK Sustainable Investment and Finance Association (UKSIF) has revealed that National Ethical Investment Week, the industry’s flagship event for the past seven years, is to be rebranded as Good Money Week for 2014.
UKSIF explained that the change was a reflection of how sustainable investment and finance had evolved since 2008, when the first National Ethical Investment Week took place.
Ethical investment has its roots in the avoiding of ‘unethical’ companies or industries, and this remains an important aspect. But an increasing number of investors are now focusing instead on sustainability, and investing in those companies that are helping address key social and environmental challenges.
Simon Howard, chief executive of UKSIF, said, “There are now an enormous number of ways for individuals to engage with their money and ensure their financial decisions can have a positive impact on the world.
“Responsible investment has in the past mistakenly been perceived as a niche area. The recognition by financial experts of the risk to value stemming from factors such as climate change or unpopular tax structures, combined with growth in areas such as community funding for renewables and crowdfunding, show why this is the right time to get people thinking about their finances in a broader way.”
2013 was widely regarded as the most successful National Ethical Investment Week to date. In his post-event analysis, Howard – who celebrates his one-year anniversary as chief executive in May – noted that there had been a noticeable “step change” in the level of debate and amount of content.
As part of the week, Blue & Green Tomorrow published The Guide to National Ethical Investment Week 2013, as well as guides to sustainable banking, financial advice and sustainable funds.
Commenting on the new Good Money Week, UKSIF programme director Lisa Stonestreet said, “We are excited about the new opportunities that the rebrand provides for working with a much wider range of partner organisations.
“We can work to ensure that the campaign is more successful than ever in letting people know how their money can work for them and for society. We look forward to celebrating and demonstrating the depth and breadth of green and responsible finance in the UK.”
The refreshed event will take place from October 19-25, with a formal launch of the campaign set for the summer.
Further reading:
From ethics to sustainability: shifting the investment debate for 2014
A new beginning for sustainable investment in the UK