For example, Trillion Trees, a united force of BirdLife International, Wildlife Conservation Society and WWF, helped restore a degraded forest in Kaptagat, Kenya and is restoring a key wildlife corridor in Laos. 

Nature-based solutions

Travers advocates that instead of simply taking individual actions like going vegan or driving an electric vehicle, investing in and donating to nature-based climate solutions is the most effective and efficient way of making a difference.

She says: “Nature-based solutions are critical because they are the most sustainable solutions, and benefit both people and nature simultaneously.

"Protecting standing tropical forests is one of the most cost-effective means of combating climate change, and it safeguards species and people at the same time."

However, climate solutions are not possible without the work of and collaboration with Indigenous people and local communities on the ground in key ecosystems across the globe, Travers adds.

These groups hold intimate knowledge of their environments, and are critical to achieving long-lasting conservation goals.

This is a message that would-be sustainable fund management groups need to hear – and to include important stakeholders such as these in their efforts to provide a 'green' fund for investors.

Securing long-term funding is crucial for sustaining conservation efforts.

In a recent survey distributed to Rainforest Trust partners conducting critical on-the-ground conservation work globally, the majority of respondents said they depended on funding from international foundations (81 per cent) and NGOs (74 per cent).

This indicated the necessity for sustained financial support and long-term funding solutions for successful conservation.

Caring for the environment is part of stewarding resources responsibly for the purposes of protecting humankind and the planet.

Finance can be used in a positive way by supporting climate action charities like those selected by the Global Returns Project.

No one has all the answers, but in many differing ways, whether through investing for impact or advising on philanthropic donations, UK financial services companies can help Britons protect our planet by investing in a healthier future.

Anita Boniface is a freelance financial journalist