21 Best ESG ETFs to Invest in Today

Are you an investor looking to make a positive difference and earn returns simultaneously? Then ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) ETFs could be your answer. It’s time to invest purposefully and start making an impact beyond profit. These are the best ESG ETFs to invest in today.

Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) are some of the most crucial things that should be considered as an investment strategy for companies and investors. In light of that, when investing in index funds, consider fund investments that meet key ESG factors to diversify your portfolio to meet your investment objectives while also impacting current and future generations.

Investments aren’t just simple buy-and-sell transactions anymore but require the use of your conscience to separate one choice from the next. If you want to invest in Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) correctly, the best investments are sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Green investment groups (counted as ESGs) could also exclude industries like fossil fuel industry investments, which adds to its rating as a sustainable investment. This isn’t about making a quick dollar on buying low and selling high but rather long-term investing for success.

Here’s a detailed guide to the best ESG ETFs to invest in today, and all you could want to know about is why these funds make an excellent investment.

The Best ESG ETFs to Invest in Today

From the United States

1. iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF (ESGU)

The iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA fund was first established for investment in 2016 and brings the investor immediate exposure to the biggest companies in the US stock market right now.

A single investment into the ESG Aware fund guarantees a fast, diverse portfolio that encompasses some of the biggest companies in the United States.

Combined assets are worth more than an estimated $22.3 billion. Its overall holdings are spread out over several industries like healthcare and real estate, but this fund keeps a firm focus on technology.

The Aware fund prefers companies with a high ESG rating, which is exactly what you seek in a green investment fund. Investors are guaranteed investments free of the tobacco and alcohol industry, as well as others like the adult entertainment industry.

As a sustainable investment, the ESG Aware fund also guarantees that your investment is free of any companies with business in deforestation, weapons, or anything potentially harmful to the stock.

The group’s investment in oil, fuel, and gas companies is one drawback that lowers its overall rating. Looking past this, they are one of the most powerful ESG ETF options.

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2. Vanguard ESG US Stock ETF (ESGV)

Vanguard ESG US Stock is a top-rated ESG for sustainable investing that has been around since 2018. Focus is broad, with its portfolio containing more than 1, 500 different companies under the Vanguard (US) umbrella.

It’s one of the largest (by-company) investments on this list. Even if you don’t recognize the Vanguard name, you’ll know most company names that make up the 1,500 list – including familiar ones like Comcast. If you want your investment to be very broad through several industries, Vanguard is always a strong option.

Oil and gas companies are excluded, which increases its rating as an environmentally friendly investment. Traditional sin stocks (like alcohol and tobacco, adult entertainment, and the gambling industry) are all guaranteed to be excluded from the group.

Vanguard provides some of the best ESG funds you can choose from. Their performance has stayed steady since their first launch in 2018.

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3. Xtrackers MSCI USA ESG Leaders Equity ETF (USSG)

The MSCI USA ESG Leaders Equity ETF is new and was only launched in 2019, but it has already managed to bring together a vast selection of assets worth at least $3.9 bn and climbing further up.

Fossil fuel companies are included and reduce the green rating of their overall portfolio. This doesn’t limit its reach, and it’s still a sound sustainable ETF that excludes investment in traditional sin stocks that can bring your portfolio down.

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4. iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF (SUSA)

The iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF was launched in 2005 and is one of the best-performing sustainable ETF choices at the time of writing. It is one of the oldest funds with a sustainable focus, and its assets are estimated to be worth at least $3.8 bn.

While the oldest, it is the smallest umbrella when measured by the number of companies. The Select fund relies on a cluster of 200 companies, with tech and healthcare investment as its primary focus.

Mid-to-large companies are the bulk of its strength as an ESG portfolio. This fund does invest in a few fossil fuel companies, which brings the overall weight of its ESG focus practices brings it down by a bit.

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5. iShares MSCI KLD 400 Social ETF (DSI)

The MSCI KLD 400 Social fund has been in operation since 2006: it’s one of the most popular options right now if you want to invest in a robust yet guaranteed green portfolio that tracks more than 400 companies.

The assets are estimated to be worth at least $3.5 bn through its holdings. It ranks high as an ESG ETF thanks to its exclusion of companies that do not meet its strict ESG criteria.

The KLD 400 also has a higher ranking thanks to its further inclusion of companies in the business of GMOs. It can’t be perfect, though: KLD 400 isn’t completely green and still invests in select fossil fuel and gas companies.

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6. Xtrackers S&P 500 ESG ETF (SNPE)

The Xtrackers S&P500 is one of the best socially responsible ETFs out there: it is recommended often if you are looking for a comprehensive investment umbrella covering several industries.

S&P500 covers 500 successful companies, with a focus on technology and communication investments. Your investment’s almost guaranteed to go to 500 of the largest brand-name companies on the market.

As a clean investment, the S&P 500 portfolio is guaranteed to be free of investment in tobacco and alcohol, weapons, and adult entertainment. Unfortunately, the S&P500 does include investment in a select few fossil fuel companies, bringing the rating down.

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 7. iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (ICLN)

The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF is one of the best ESG ETF funds for sustainable investment groups. First brought to launch in 2008, it focuses on companies in the business of solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources.

All investments are guaranteed to be free from non-compliant ESG factors, such as no nuclear weapons, civilian firearms, or thermal coal mine investments. This is a great option to gain exposure to the environmental angle since the ETF focuses solely on clean energy. It’s considered one of the best ESG funds overall.

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8. Parnassus Core Equity Fund (PRBLX)

The Parnassus Core Equity Fund is sold under the label of a completely fossil-free fund, which keeps its investments ethical and environmentally sound.

Parnassus controls more than $31m in assets through its portfolio. Assets include companies such as Microsoft Corporation and Comcast, amongst hundreds of other reliable options. Diversity is one of the best attributes of Parnassus.

The group focuses on technology, communication, and IT but also branches into other things (like healthcare and real estate investments). If you need a strong and responsible fund to invest in, Parnassus stands tall above its competitors.

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9. Shelton Alpha Green Fund (NEXTX)

The Shelton Alpha Green Fund was introduced as an environmentally-friendly fund in 2013. It’s one of the best ETFs with ESG for a completely guaranteed green investment portfolio – that’s what they do best.

Approximately $340m in assets make up the Shelton Alpha. Each participant is chosen by the Alpha Green Fund Managers and screened against their criteria for what makes a green investment. Their unique approach makes them a perfect ESG investment: they invest only in green companies.

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10. Pax Ellevate Global Women’s Leadership Fund

The Pax Ellevate Global Women’s Leadership Fund is worth more than $822.7 billion in collective investments. More than 400 companies make up this great ETF that focuses specifically on companies promoting gender equality in the workplace.

Companies are all owned, run, and managed by influential female leadership figures. Gender diversity also counts as a form of corporate responsibility: it does not just apply to a simple carbon footprint for a company.

It’s an empowering thought, and it works for high returns. International, well-known companies like Estee Lauder comprise part of the 400 companies within this choice ETF.

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11. SPDR S&P500 FOSSIL FUEL FREE ETF

The S&P500 Fossil Fuel Free ETF is almost like regular investment in the S&P 500 but minus its involvement in the companies that invest in oil, gas, and fossil fuels.

Approximately ten fewer companies appear on this listing than the regular S&P 500. Investing in fossil fuels is to be avoided for some investors; if that’s you, here’s your next potential investment option.

There are still 490 companies that make this a great ETF to chase. Sustainability is the keyword for this ETF. It’s worth approximately $1 billion in assets and has been operating with great returns since 2015.

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12. Boston Trust Walden Balanced Fund

The Boston Trust Walden Balanced Fund is one of the largest portfolios for a diverse, sustainable investment. The bulk of the fund consists of a governmental portfolio of fixed income, which is part of its strength.

Assets are worth more than $190 million: it doesn’t take much explanation to show why this could be an excellent choice. The most common stocks that do not meet ESG principles are avoided. While not mentioned often, this is one of the funds to watch for big returns shortly. Previous returns point to its potential strengths.

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13. 1919 Socially Responsible Balanced Fund (SSIAX)

The 1919 Socially Responsible Balanced Fund opened for investment in 1992 and remains strong as an environmentally friendly and sustainable investment fund. What’s notable about this index fund is that it’s one of the top ESG ETF recommendations by Forbes.com. When Forbes says it’s something to watch, you can usually take their word for it!

The 1919 Fund focuses on businesses with a low carbon footprint and ones that make a sustainable difference – and can prove it. If you are looking for a great sustainable ESG ETF that comes recommended, the 1919 Fund might be it. Common sin stocks (alcohol, tobacco, adult entertainment) are avoided, though the portfolio does contain a minor investment in fossil fuel companies.

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14. Invesco MSCI Sustainable Future ETF (ERTH)

The Invesco MSCI Sustainable Future ETF was first founded in 2006, and its portfolio is based on the Global Environment Select Index. This matters when it comes to ESG ETFs.

What makes this great is that it focuses on sustainability throughout the entire bulk of its portfolio. At least 80% of its wealth is well-diversified in alternative energy companies, sustainable buildings, and other environmentally-friendly industries.

Why should you consider this option for your ESG ETF investment? Invesco is a leader in the sustainable energy field. Tesla, Central Japan Railway Company, and SolarEdge Technologies are just three of the reasons why this is a good choice.

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15. Invesco Solar ETF (TAN)

The Invesco Solar ETF is a comprehensive and sustainable fund option that might not be as large as its counterparts but is much more specific in its focus – and still holds just as much investment power.

No forms of sin stocks are seen here: deforestation, the weapons industry, adult entertainment, tobacco, weapons, and other potentially risky stocks are better left to other investors – and here, completely clean.

Solar energy is sustainable but also popular and profitable. Companies that provide solar energy are making a multimillion-dollar turnover, and these companies side with Invesco. It’s why this fund is worth your time. First Solar, Daqo New Energy Corp ADR, and Enphase Energy are just three companies that comprise the Invesco Solar portfolio.

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16. Invesco MSCI Green Building ETF

The Invesco MSCI Green Building ETF is another option for investors chasing absolute sustainability in their business decisions. Unlike other Invesco options, this fund is built around a core of sustainable, green building companies.

The Green Building ETF comprises successful companies in construction, material, and related industries. All the companies in this fund bring the world closer to sustainable buildings – and a better environment.

With no oil or gas investments, the Invesco MSCI Green Building ETF is ideal for investors who want to build a smarter, cleaner portfolio that will work for them.

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17. Global X CleanTech ETF

GlobalX CleanTech is an international fund with a focus on technology and healthcare throughout its entire portfolio. While it’s a newer addition to the fund list and was only started in the latter part of this decade, CleanTechETF is fast rising as one of the most popular options for maximum returns amongst the environmentally conscious.

Not only does CleanTech omit most forms of sin stocks from its investment portfolio, but its main focus is technology – and how it can be made better and more sustainable.

All companies on the GlobalX CleanTech roster have a low carbon footprint and implement environmentally friendly business models. That keeps CleanTech up top as a potential ETF, and it’s going up in terms of what it can do for you.

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Outside the United States

18. iShares ESG Aware MSCI EAFE ETF (ESGD)

The iShares ESG Aware MSCI EAFE fund invests its portfolio throughout three main international territories: the United Kingdom, Japan, and France. It excludes the traditional forms of sin stocks, like alcohol and tobacco, gambling, or the adult entertainment industry.

A crucial element that sets this apart is the inclusion of fossil fuel reserves from giant BP. Fossil fuel and gas investments are, unfortunately, part of this portfolio – and it brings their overall green rating down

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19. Vanguard ESG International Stock ETF (VSGX)

Vanguard ESG International Stock is one of the best ETFs on the stock market but also one of the largest overall. Vanguard ESG ETFs are made up of more than 5,000 different individual companies.

Territories are spread throughout the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Japan. Vanguard has a widespread focus but angles its approach to technology, communication, and commerce toward emerging markets. Some of the largest tech companies, including Alibaba and Tencent, can be found here.

It’s an excellent ESG option due to what it excludes from the portfolio. A completely green approach to its investment portfolio makes Vanguard a high-rated ESG ETF, especially for tech.

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20. iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF (DMXF)

The iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EAFE ETF (MFXF) is one of this list’s newest ESG ETF options: it first launched in 2020. While it might be newer, it’s already climbing the ranks as a popular ESG ETF investment. More than $250 million in assets make up this ETF option. Investments are spread over three main territories: the United Kingdom, France, and Japan.

It’s particularly notable for its high environmental ranking. It gets this thanks to cutting out all forms of fossil fuel, coal, and gas investment from its portfolio. Investment is guaranteed to be completely green.

Other forms of traditional “sin stocks” are guaranteed to be absent from investment here. This includes the tobacco and alcohol industries, adult and club entertainment, and any investment in weapons.

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21. IQ Candriam ESG International Equity ETF (IQSI)

The IQ Candriam ESG International Equity ETF was first launched for public investment in 2019. Candriam wields most of its power in the United Kingdom, France, and Japan – although some of its investments branch out into further international branches.

Candriam contains a total of 674 international holdings at the time of writing. Fossil fuel and coal investments are not excluded for Candriam, which can be a potential drawback for a clean investment.

The most traditional forms of “sin stocks” are excluded from Candriam: the tobacco and alcohol industries, adult and nightclub entertainment, and any potential investment in the defunding of weapons.

As a hugely comprehensive international index, Candriam pulls a lot of weight. The success of its more than 600 individual companies can’t be wrong.

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Summary of the Best ESG Exchange Traded Funds

ETF Name	Ticker	Expense Ratio	ESG Rating	AUM (in millions)
iShares ESG MSCI USA ETF	ESGU	0.15%	AAA	$13,104
Xtrackers MSCI USA ESG Leaders Equity ETF	USSG	0.10%	AA	$7,231
iShares ESG MSCI EAFE ETF	ESGD	0.20%	A	$3,490
iShares ESG MSCI EM ETF	ESGE	0.25%	BBB	$2,139
SPDR S&P 500 ESG ETF	EFIV	0.10%	AA	$1,632

Understanding ESG Investing

The popularity of ESG investing is growing as investors are looking to link their investment decisions with the values they hold. This strategy considers environmental, social, and governance components to guarantee sustainability and success for participating companies.

Because of this outlook on investments, many people have chosen ESG funds invest, which consider these key principles when allocating capital resources. To be familiarized with how ESG funds work, one must comprehend their core concepts, like sustainable or socially responsible investing.

As a result enabling themselves the opportunity to meet their financial goals while also making a positive climate change move globally, potentially creating profitable returns simultaneously. Responsible investors can achieve great results through inclusionary decision-making involving ESG aspects by being aware of pertinent elements such as government regulations.

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Environmental

Fund managers use ESG investing to leverage natural resources to conserve and protect the environment to combat climate change – including reducing carbon emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, protecting lands, and optimizing waste management.

By allocating capital to firms that excel on these key material issues essential for their industry sectors through an integrated approach, such funds become a popular option amongst responsible investors looking for returns and making a difference. ESG portfolios give them this chance while offering sound prospects of success too.

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Social

ESG investing can create a positive impact by building good relationships with stakeholders, such as employees, suppliers, and customers. The integration approach for social performance allows investors to invest in companies making progress on relevant ESG topics relevant to their sectors.

Passive ESG funds become attractive investments due to this targeted strategy, which aligns the investor’s values while supporting businesses committed to implementing ethical and socially responsible practices.

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Governance

In ESG investing, governance is a fundamental element, and it can potentially help enhance leadership benchmarks, shareholder rights, or risk control.

With the focus on related aspects like the transparency of information, equitable business practices in terms of diverse hiring, and proportionate remuneration among workforce tiers, investors are encouraged to consider this important factor while creating investment portfolios that carefully take into account risks and returns associated with ESG issues alongside other key matters.

Responsible investors should prioritize companies with excellent corporate governance and oversight track record as part of their asset management approach. Not only will such selections lead them towards more significant economic gains, but they also push for ethical compliance amongst businesses through increased corporate governance, including accountability and disclosure standards.

Doing so facilitates long-term sustainability benefits stemming from well-managed corporate cultures that benefit all stakeholders regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, or any external influence.

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Risks and Challenges of ESG Investing

Investing through ESG strategies can be advantageous, but a few ESG risks should not be overlooked. One of the key issues to consider is greenwashing, when companies exaggerate or make false claims about their environmental practices to attract investments from unaware investors and ultimately misuse these funds for other purposes.

Another drawback may involve a lack of customized options within this type of investing, which could limit choices based on individual values. As it gains more traction among people across different industries, we expect it to gain more traction. Many institutional investors rely heavily on ESG scores to base their investments, which may be incredibly misleading.

Customization opportunities will become available shortly, enabling clients to find matching investments reflecting all their desired principles while making a real impact on society’s welfare. ESG investments continue to get misrepresented with impact investing as they are slightly different approaches.

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Evaluating ESG ETFs

Investors looking to get involved with ESG investing should evaluate various factors before committing, such as the size of the fund’s expense ratio, its Refinitiv Lipper ranking, and Morningstar rating, as well as annual fees. ETFs are an excellent way for investors to keep track of their investments while adhering to their values. This will lead them closer to achieving an enjoyable investment experience.

Studying these components in detail when considering ESG investment products or ETFs allows individuals to successfully make decisions that agree with risk tolerance levels and goals, all while keeping those core beliefs intact.

How do you invest in ETFs?

Anyone can trade ETFs with primary education in trading platforms, funds, and how they work. Brokerage platforms or trading apps can put you in touch with the international fund marketplace, where it’s easy to trade with a simple click.

As a first warning, avoid jargon and read at least one introduction to financial terms. Never “invest” by mashing buttons, but instead, use common sense and reason to make your trading decisions. Your brokerage platform or trading app might charge minimal added fees.

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Incorporating ESG ETFs into Your Portfolio

When thinking of adding ESG ETFs to your portfolio, it’s important to weigh up investment objectives, personal risk tolerance, and any current investments.

Doing this will help you make informed decisions in line with what matters most while supporting companies that practice environmental social and governance (ESG) values.

Consulting a financial advisor is wise if unsure where/how best to introduce ESG funds into your selection. They can advise on the specific options available based on individual requirements.

Plenty of robo-advisors specialize in ESG investments, such as Betterment, Ellevest, and Wealthfront, who provide socially responsible portfolios or access points for investing according to considerations regarding sustainable investing principles.

Why are ESG-focused investments good?

Corporate responsibility matters, and investment in stocks that avoid ESG practices can mean your portfolio is exposed to unnecessary risk, and overall, most ESG funds actually outperform their counterparts.

An investment in sustainable funds is an investment in the future. Exchange fund investments are also considered instant access to a whole portfolio. You aren’t placing all your eggs in a single basket; you’re spreading out your amount of baskets – and that’s why investment in ETFs is profitable. If you have ever wanted to turn your money into more, this could be the perfect opportunity.

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Factors to Considering When Investing in ETF Funds

ETFs are not complicated, but a handful of terms can be unfamiliar to investors who have just walked into the room. Assets under management, expense ratios, and the overall performance of the companies under your potential investors are all factors you should consider before you click. Here are some of the most important terms you might see when investing in ESG companies and ETFs.

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Assets Under Management

Assets under management is an industry term that describes the companies’ total investment and net asset value under the group umbrella. The higher the number, the more the companies are worth as a unit – and the more successful the investment might be in the future.

Expense Ratio

The expense ratio is what it will cost the investor to own their part of the fund. While small at first, the expense ratio is charged as a percentile of your total investment – and it can add up over time, so keep an eye on it. Overall, expense ratios with ETFs are far less than mutual funds. If you notice an ETF that charges a similar rate to mutual funds, it’s best to avoid it.

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Bid-Ask Spread

Spread is one of the most important stock market terms you should know. The bid-ask spread is the difference between the exact selling price and a stock’s exact buying price when the sale is made. Thanks to real-time sales at fractions of a second, there can be a difference between what you pay and what you are quoted.

Differences are small but can and will add up. With smaller purchases, the bid-ask spread can be larger. New traders can misunderstand the bid-ask difference at first. Don’t let this cost you!

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Risk

Risk should always be thought of as an investor or entrepreneur. While taking risks is okay and investing involves risk, jumping straight into a volcano with closed eyes is not okay. Always think before you finalize a trade.

Investment in a socially and environmentally responsible fund automatically lessens your risk as an investor. From a company’s carbon footprint to its involvement in corporate scandals, this can drag funds and their worth to the ground. An ESG ETF can guarantee that this doesn’t happen.

Benefits of ETFs

ETFs are far more popular than investing in individual stocks or shares. The stock market can generate significant returns but can be extremely risky and speculative due to market volatility.

Fund investment is the answer since most ETFs’ holdings are spread across hundreds of companies at a very low cost. These are some of the most important reasons why exchange-traded funds make for a solid, recommended investment:

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Easier to Trade

Exchange-traded funds are easier to trade than mutual funds or individual shares. While investment in shares can increase your operating costs in individual transaction fees, a simple ETF buy-and-sell transaction will buy the investor more (but cost much less). You can reach your first fund investment in minutes with the right brokerage platform.

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Cheaper To Sell

The stock market is a minefield of potential hidden costs: transaction and brokerage fees are not cheap. ETF trading still happens on the traditional stock market but with few of the traditional costs associated with selling off your stock when you’re done.

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Added Tax Benefits

Corporate responsibility is an important aspect of tax transparency of the business. Added tax benefits can be granted to investors with a diversified, green portfolio to count on – and less tax gets paid on investments and funds with a high ESG rating. Comparatively, investments in sin stocks are taxed at higher rates.

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Transparency

Corporate responsibility also stretches to full accountability to (and for!) the company’s board. Companies under a fund with a high ESG rating will automatically have a higher transparency level. Regarding important things like tax records and sales, expect many ESG funds-rated companies to be an open book.

FAQs

Related Resources

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• How to Implement an ESG Integration Framework
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• Reasons to Start Social Impact Investing