A Fulcrum Asset Management survey of professional investors shows that 79% believe it is important that they integrate sustainability into their investment process.

The figure is slightly higher for IFAs, at just over 82% and just under at 76% for institutional investors including consultants, pension fund managers and trustees.

Samriddhi Sharma, Responsible Investment Associate at Fulcrum, says that due to an increase in natural disasters and increased regulation most investors should consider embedding ESG risks and opportunities in their overall investment process. She said, “Integrating ESG considerations when it comes to asset allocation signals strong and thoughtful governance. On the other hand, ignoring ESG factors is a risk. Despite recent challenges from energy prices to new government policy, we believe that ESG considerations should and will continue to be at the forefront of investors’ minds.”