Eco-investing attempts to profit from the transition from carbon-consuming energy systems to those that rely on renewable or carbon-neutral sources of energy. It also includes the investment in companies that provide environmentally friendly products or services. The terms green investing, eco-investing, and socially responsible investing are often used interchangeably. Eco-investing or green investing is a subcategory of socially responsible investing.

There are multiple eco-investing sectors: 1. Eco Living. Companies in this sector provide services and goods related to healthy living. This includes items related to health care, organic farming, and ecologically sound pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. If you have an interest in green farming, this sector might be a great fit. 2. Renewable energy.

This is the best-known category to the average investor and includes companies that produce solar panels, wind turbines, and water-driven turbines. The companies that provide the parts and raw materials to these companies are also considered part of this sector. 3. Energy storage. All that energy from solar panels has to be stored. The fuel cells in hybrid cars and other battery devices for storing energy are part of the energy storing sector. Energy storage is expensive, but technological advances are bringing down the costs. The cost of energy storage prevents many homeowners from utilizing solar or wind energy. 4. Biofuels. Biofuels are produced from waste or other biological materials. Bio-diesel and fuel from corn or algae are a few common examples. These fuels are much easier on the environment and have the potential to be less expensive. 5. Buildings and Efficiency. These companies produce green building materials, such as energy-efficient glass and insulation. Companies that deal with recycling are also included. Many of these companies have been around for a very long time and can be more stable than companies in the other categories.

You can limit yourself to a single sector or invest across the board. There are many companies from which to choose. Focus on understanding one sector before moving on to another. Good opportunities can be found in any sector.

How to Invest Several options exist for the green investor: 1. Individual stocks. You find, research, and invest in individual stocks that fall under the broad category of green investing. Search for the term, “green stocks” to get started. 2. Mutual funds. If you’d rather leave the stock research to a professional, consider purchasing a mutual fund that targets green companies. Mutual funds also provide automatic diversification. Just remember that you can get less diversification than with a more conventional mutual fund. 3. Bonds. Green companies need to borrow money, too. Sometimes, the government also offers bonds that support green initiatives. There are green bond funds, too. Bonds are a good option if you need income from your investments.

Be careful of a few common mistakes when investing in green companies. Many green companies are heavily dependent on government assistance in one form or another. For instance, big tax breaks for consumers that purchase solar panels can make a manufacturer very profitable. When those tax breaks expire, far fewer consumers are willing to purchase solar panels.

Also be aware of companies that heavily market their “green-ness”. At the end of the day, good companies turn a profit. Avoid being swayed only by the great things the company is doing for the environment. A company that goes bankrupt won’t do much to enhance your investment portfolio. Green investing can be a great way to secure your financial future while being gentle on your conscience.

Remember that it’s still important to make smart investing decisions.