Investing in publicly-traded companies can be frustrating for the concerned investor.  The goal of increasing shareholder value (by increasing the price of stock) generally requires continual growth in sales and profits.  For this reason, companies are beholden to financial analysts who influence the price of stock.  

Sustainability calls for operations over the long haul in a manner that does not reduce the rights and opportunities of future generations.  It requires a very long term view.  On the other hand, financial analysts take a very short-term view.  If a company is not doing well in the short term, the stock can be sold.

Nevertheless, to promote sustainable business practices, a growing number of investors seek to accomplish two goals with their investments: (1) earn a reasonable return for the assumed risk and (2) protect or do least harm to the earth’s natural systems including air, water, forests, and agricultural land.  These investors seek to support businesses that are serious in their pursuit of environmental sustainability.

SII promotes the practice of sustainable investing among investment professionals, institutional investors, and individual investors.  This practice should reward companies and public agencies that are taking significant steps to adopt more sustainable practices.  Companies that adopt sustainable practices, as well as investors, will benefit financially.