Environmental exploitation

Recessions usually spell bad news for the environment. Promises of investment in clean energy and sustainable technology wither away as mediocre returns drive investors to count the cost of easing their conscience. But today's burgeoning green sector means things look different this time around. Richard Jory reports

Unlike previous recessions in the modern era, when all commitments to environmental protection were shelved, this time around there remains a thriving green sector in which to invest. And while it is relatively small compared to the industries with which it competes, the sector is now firmly established and boasts large companies and allocations from pension funds.

Green industry could even be said to have more robust funding thanany other business, with the possible exceptions of banking and