Canadians are increasingly interested in responsible investments (RI), according to a survey published Thursday by Montreal-based Desjardins Group.

According to the survey, Canadians became more familiar with, and interested in, RI between 2016 and 2018. The percentage of respondents who said they were interested in RI increased to 72% from 66% over the same two-year period.

When asked if they planned to invest in RI in 2018, 63% of respondents said they would probably, very likely or definitely choose this option.

Other survey highlights:

  • 18% of respondents said they had discussed RIs with their financial advisor (up from 13% in 2016);
  • 24% of respondents said returns on RIs are lower than those on traditional investments — 8% more than in 2016;
  • 16% of respondents said RIs are riskier than traditional investments, a 3% increase; and
  • respondents identified cybersecurity, human rights and protection of nature and forests as their top three social and environmental concerns

The main reasons respondents gave when asked why they would choose responsible investments were: positive impact on society and the planet, attractive return potential and aligning their investments with their lifestyle and beliefs.

In addition, respondents gave attractive return potential, concrete evidence that RIs lead to social or environmental benefits and positive impact on society and the planet as the top three factors that would convince them to choose RIs.

“The survey reveals that we must continue our financial education initiatives in RI, which have been very successful. We’ve partnered with the Responsible Investment Association to provide training to 500 RI advisors, who will then be able to offer our members and clients better decision-making support,” said Guy Cormier, President and CEO of Desjardins Group, in a statement.