Advisors Are Growing Business Through SRI: Study

Further, 35% reported increased interest from clients, while 60% stated SRI is an "ongoing topic of discussion."

The online survey, taken from Aug. 20 through Sept. 7 of 2018, was done in conjunction with Calvert Research and Management, a $15.3 billion mutual fund that has large focus on SRI investing.

Others findings include:

• More than half (56%) said that SRI is driving new business to their practices.
• Only 35% classified themselves as "very well-informed" about SRI.
• A majority, 87%, stated "robust research" is needed for ESG analysis, however, 67% said it is difficult for investors to get "measurable quantitative sustainability data" from companies. This complaint also surfaced in another study of institutional investors by RBC.
• A majority, or 93%, of advisors said demonstrating the impact of ESG investing is important to investors.
• Active roles in ESG outcomes also are important, as 82% of advisors stated it's important to engage with company leadership to drive positive outcomes.

"Responsible investing strategies allow advisors to take a more holistic approach to wealth management with their clients," said Anthony Eames, director of responsible investing strategy at Calvert, in a statement. "As responsible investing gains in popularity, there's increased dialogue between advisors and their clients."

— Related on ThinkAdvisor:

• Only 6% of Older Investors Are Familiar with ESG Investing: Survey
• The Dearth of Women on Corporate Boards: A Sector Breakdown