Forty-eight per cent of UK investors have suggested they expect to increase their environmental, social and governance (ESG) investments over the next three years, according to new research from Charles Stanley Direct.

The online investment platform suggested 17% of UK investors were planning to increase their ESG investments significantly.

Charles Stanley Direct said its findings – which came from a survey conducted among a representative sample of 2,002 people in January – highlighted the growing role that socially responsible investing (SRI) is currently playing among UK investors, as well as the growing awareness of both SRI and ESG.

The survey results also found that 19% suggested their awareness of SRI and ESG had increased over the last 12 months, while a similar proportion of respondents expected to significantly increase their exposure to SRI and ESG over the next three years.

Charles Stanley Direct indicated there is still work to do for the potential of SRI and ESG to be realised, with 60% of self-identified ‘DIY investors’ surveyed admitting they were not aware of SRI or ESG.

“There continues to be a significant movement toward SRI among UK investors,” Charles Stanley Direct investment analyst, Rob Morgan, commented. “But while awareness and appetite are increasing, more needs to be done to complete the shift from niche investing to the mainstream.

“Not only is it important that returns from SRI are able to adequately contribute to a long-term investment strategy, it’s also essential to demonstrate the positive impact this type of investing can have.

“This comes through more transparency, better reporting, and a more informative and user-friendly investment portals. Getting this right will enable investors to put their money to work, safe in the knowledge that it’s delivering for the global good as well as their financial future.”

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