There has long been a false idea that you can either make money or make the world a better place. That’s simply untrue. Plenty of investments bring personal benefits to you as well as social and moral benefits to the world. If you have a little extra cash, and you’re looking to invest, here are a few ideas for investments that save the world as well as your wallet.

Green Energy

Environmentally friendly investments are more than virtue signaling; they’re also financially smart. Whether you’re looking at solar investment New Jersey or geothermal investments in Iceland, there are countless green industries booming, and they are likely to continue to boom in the future. Forward-thinking companies, countries, and individual investors all agree; green investments are smart investments. 

Innovation

This is an age of innovation, in technology, in industry, and in investments. Countless start-ups aren’t just good opportunities for you, they’re good for society and for the planet. Instead of investing in yet another money-making scheme, look for a start-up taking carbon out of the air and turning it into concrete, or a company that’s bringing better internet to rural areas, or any other of the countless ways that a little money can go a long way towards making the world a better place. 

Invest in Equality

Not all investments are money; sometimes investments are in people rather than businesses or companies. If you’re an entrepreneur looking for new employees, remember that hiring practices go beyond resumes and interviews. Look outside your usual hiring pool for a more diverse group of employees and enjoy the many benefits that come with having a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Charity

Charity is a tried-and-true investment for people who just want to make the world a better place. Give wisely by looking into a charity’s background and practices before you make a donation. Give generously and make sure that you keep track of those gifts, as they are often tax-deductible come tax season. Give often and you may find yourself getting more involved in a cause that you believe in passionately. 

Money makes money, but not all money makes the world a better place. You can do both at the same time, and there are lots of reasons to do exactly that. All the money in the world doesn’t mean much if the world isn’t a very nice place to live. The good news is that money can be a tool for good, if only you’re willing to use it that way.