The history of Socially Responsible Investment (SRI) dates to the 18th century, when religious groups such as the Quakers and Methodists avoided investments in industries like tobacco, alcohol, and gambling. In the 1960s, the movement gained momentum as people increasingly sought to align their investments with civil rights and environmental concerns.
The history of SRI further evolved during the 1980s, with global campaigns against apartheid in South Africa prompting investors to divest from companies operating there. By the late 20th century, SRI expanded to include corporate governance, environmental sustainability, and ethical business practices.
Today, the history of Socially Responsible Investment continues to shape modern investing. SRI now encompasses a wide range of strategies, including impact investing and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria, empowering investors to drive both financial returns and positive societal change.