How is the information calculated?

We collect data for fund holdings for metrics such as carbon intensity, environmental fines, investments in tobacco and weapons companies, and waste generated. We then calculate the weighted-average of this data for the fund, using the weights of fund holdings.

Next we compare the weighted-average data to the benchmark and calculate the percent that the fund is better or worse than the benchmark.

We then estimate the amount of wind turbines, cars on the road, full-time employees, or other "real-world" data the fund is equal to, using your hypothetical investment value. For example, if the average cost of a wind turbine is estimated at $350,000 and your hypothetical investment value is $700,000, your investment would be equal to approximately 2 wind turbines.

Using the percent that the fund is better or worse than the benchmark, we then calculate your potential impact. For example, if the fund holds 50% more renewable energy companies than the benchmark and your hypothetical investment value is $700,000, we would estimate your impact at 1 wind turbine built ($700K value / $350K per wind turbine * 50% better impact).

How is the fund scored?

The fund is rated for each SDG based on the holdings in the fund.

We score all fund holdings on each SDG, then calculate the weighted-average score based on the weights of fund holdings.

For example, for SDG 13 (Climate Action), we collect data such as carbon intensity, renewable energy production, alignment with the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5°C, environmental fines, and more data related to Climate Action. In total we collect 2.2M+ data points from 260+ sources. You can see more about our methodology here: how ratings work.

Scores can range from 100 (best) to 0 (worst).

How are the screens calculated?

We track companies that fail ESG screens such as alchohol, fossil fuel, predatory lending, and gambling.

The way that we define a "failed" ESG screen differs by screen. For example, we consider fossil fuel companies to be oil and gas companies, coal companies, and utilities that distribute fossil fuels as part of their core business model.

You can see how we define each screen when you hover over it.

To assess a fund, we count companies held directly as stocks or bonds, and then count companies held through funds. We calculate the number and percentage of companies that fail each ESG screen compared to the total number held.