IRRCI says a lack of clarity around what constitutes sustainable investments can at least partially explain the discrepancies between the AASHE and SEI findings.

In terms of companies’ environmental investing, a June report from Deloitte says an organization’s understanding of how its stakeholders (including shareholders) perceive and value the organization’s environmental, social and governance issues can lead to financial benefits. A report published the same month by The Conference Board says shareholders are placing more value on corporate sustainability initiatives, and are becoming increasingly interested in linking such performance to executives’ compensation.