Investing Sustainably in the Netherlands in 2025: A guide for international investors

Sustaineble investing is becoming more popular around the world. In 2025, many investors want to put money in companies that are good for the environment and society. If you are an international investor thinking about the Netherlands, it is important to know how sustainable investing works here. This blog explains what is happening and what it means for your portfolio and shares our perspective as a sustainable finance advisor. 

What is sutaineble investing? 

Sustaineble investing means choosing investments that not only give financial profit but also help the world. Many investors use ESG criteria. ESG stands for Environmental, Social and Governance. It checks if companies care about the environment, treat people well and have good management. Companies with high ESG scores are often safer and can give better longterrm profit. Companies with strong ESG practices may benefit from lower risks and potentially better long-term returns, although ESG is not guarantee for profit. 

The Dutch market: Sustainebillity is important 

The Netherlands has a strong financial market. Many Dutch investors care about sustainability. Pension funds and banks often change their investments to include more sustainable companies. They want to earn money, but also help fight climate change and support social projects. 

For example, big dutch pension funds invest in companies that are environmentally friendly. They also avoid companies that do not use ESG rules. This shows that sustainebillity investing is serious in the Netherlands. From my experience, the Dutch market offers a unique combination of regulatory support and investor demand, making it an attractive destination for international investors seeking long-term impact and value. 

Why it matters for international investors 

If you want to invest in the Netherlands, here are some points: 

1. Sustainebillity is normal now: Sustaineble investing is not only for special investors. Many big investors now use ESG funds. This means there are many options for you too. 

1. Financial profit is important too: Sustaineble investments can also give good returs. Many investors choose ESG funds because they can reduce risks and give stable profit. 

1. Look carefully at products: Not all funds that say “sustainable” are the same. Some only avoid bad companies. Others actively invest in positive projects. Check what each fund really does. 
2. Know the rules: The EU has rules about sustainable finance, called “SFDR”. These rules make companies show how they invest in ESG. This helps you avoid funds that are not really sustainable. 

For clients of a sustainable financial advisory firm, understanding these distinctions is critical. It ensures that your investments align with both your financial objectives and ethical standards.

Tips to start investing: 

1. Decide your goal: Do you want good profit, impact or both? 

1. Check funds carefully; See how they include ESG criteria and what results they have. 

1. Understand rules: SFDR helps compare funds in the Netherlands and Europe. 
2. Ask local advice: Advisors can help you find good sustainable options. 

As a sustainable advisor, I guide clients through these choices, helping them find investments that reflect their values while targeting long-term financial growth. 

Conclusion 

Sustaineble investing in the Netherlands is growing fast. Many investors, including big pension funds plan to invest more in ESG funds. For international investors, this is a good chance to invest in companies that make money and help society. By learning about the market and choosing funds carefully, you can make investments that are good for both you and the world. Sustaineble investing is not only ethical, it can also be smart for longterm returns. This combination of insight, careful fund selections and professional guidance allows international investors to navigate the Dutch sustainable investment landscape with confidence. 

Source: 

Folkert. (2025b, december 6). Most Institutional Investors Maintain Positive Outlook for Sustainable Investments - Duurzaam Financieel. Duurzaam Financieel. https://www.duurzaam-beleggen.nl/2025/12/06/most-institutional-investors-maintain-positive-outlook-for-sustainable-investments/