Holly Mckay
Holly MackayFounder and CEO

How do I open a sustainable Stocks & Shares ISA in the UK?

19 May 2026

Question by Carmel

I want to take out a small Stocks & Shares ISA that is ESG and has the least charges. Can you guide me, please?


Answered by Boring Money

First, a quick note on sustainable investing

"ESG", "SRI", "ethical", "responsible" — sustainable investing comes with a lot of labels, and they don't all mean the same thing. Before picking a platform, it's worth spending five minutes understanding the differences, so you end up with something that actually matches your values. Our No-Nonsense Guide to Sustainable Investing covers the main approaches clearly.

The cheapest route: DIY with a free platform

If keeping costs as low as possible is your priority, providers like Freetrade or Trading 212 offer free Stocks & Shares ISAs. You'd then choose your own ESG funds or ETFs from their range. This puts more responsibility on you to pick and keep an eye on your investments, but the cost savings can be significant — especially with a smaller pot.

The easier route: a ready-made ESG portfolio

If you'd rather hand the investment decisions to someone else, some providers offer pre-selected ESG portfolios. This is simpler and less time-consuming, though slightly more expensive.

  • JPMorgan Personal Investing offers SRI portfolios at around £10 a year for every £1,000 you invest — reasonable value for a managed option

  • Monzo Investments is a good pick for beginners and smaller portfolios, with three ready-made funds that have an ESG focus

Disclaimer

The platforms and funds mentioned above are examples only and are not a personal recommendation. The right option for you will depend on your individual circumstances, how long you plan to invest, and your attitude to risk.