Introduction: What You Choose Not to Invest In Matters
At Epworth, ethical investment begins with a clear moral stance: some industries are incompatible with the Christian values we are called to uphold.
For us—and for the churches and charities we serve—there is no place in our portfolios for companies whose core business undermines human dignity, exploits the vulnerable, or degrades creation.
That’s why we exclude:
- Fossil fuel production
- Tobacco manufacturing
- Armaments, particularly indiscriminate weapons
This blog explains why we draw the line where we do—and how those exclusions reflect our mission of investing with integrity.
Fossil Fuels: Protecting Creation and Climate Justice
“The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.”
— Genesis 2:15
The climate crisis is one of the most urgent moral and spiritual challenges of our time. Fossil fuel combustion is the primary driver of global warming, with disproportionate impacts on the world’s poorest communities.
We exclude companies involved in:
- Thermal coal mining
- Oil and gas production
- Oil sands, fracking, and arctic drilling
Our exclusion is grounded not only in science and risk management, but in Christian theology—specifically, the call to care for creation, pursue justice, and act as stewards, not exploiters.
We also engage with companies and banks on climate financing and transition planning. But for fossil fuel producers themselves, our stance is clear: we do not invest.
Read about our climate engagement with financial institutions here.
Tobacco: A Business Built on Harm
“Love your neighbour as yourself.”
— Mark 12:31
Tobacco is the only legal product that kills half of its regular users when used as intended. The World Health Organisation classifies it as a global health epidemic—and it is disproportionately marketed to the poor, young, and vulnerable.
We exclude all companies involved in:
- Tobacco farming
- Manufacturing of cigarettes, cigars, and other tobacco products
- Distribution or wholesale of tobacco
There is no redemptive path for tobacco production. It is incompatible with the sanctity of life, the protection of health, and the flourishing of communities.
This is a non-negotiable for our clients, and for us.
Weapons: A Call to Peace and Human Dignity
“Blessed are the peacemakers.”
— Matthew 5:9
While defence and national security are complex ethical areas, we take a firm stance against investment in:
- Indiscriminate weapons systems, including nuclear weapons, cluster munitions, and landmines
- Companies deriving significant income from arms manufacture or export
- Businesses with confirmed links to militarised conflict zones and human rights abuses
Our ethical exclusions reflect a bias for peace, a concern for civilians, and a conviction that investment should not fuel global violence.
In cases where dual-use technologies or military contracts form a small part of an otherwise ethical business, we apply strict thresholds and ethical oversight.
Learn more about our conflict and defence policy here.
More Than Avoidance: A Holistic Ethical Strategy
Exclusions are the foundation—not the ceiling—of our approach. In addition to these core sectors, we screen out:
- Adult entertainment
- Gambling
- High-interest lending (e.g. payday loans)
- Companies involved in serious environmental or labour violations
We also proactively support companies that:
- Advance human rights and decent work
- Lead in climate transition
- Uphold transparency and fairness
- Contribute to health, education, and sustainability
Because Christian investing is not just about avoiding harm—it’s about seeking the good.
Conclusion: Clear Boundaries, Clear Values
At Epworth, we draw ethical lines because we believe investment should reflect faith, not compromise it. Our exclusions are not based on fashion or PR—they are grounded in decades of theological reflection, client collaboration, and ethical discernment.
Looking for an investment partner who won’t profit from harm? Let’s talk about building a portfolio aligned with your values.
Explore our ethical investment policy