As a climate-conscious consumer, you might already be cutting down on your water use, buying from eco-friendly companies for your everyday needs, and making the switch away from single-use plastic. But have you thought about how your money is impacting the environment when it’s not in use?

Take your retirement account. If you’re lucky enough to have retirement investment options, you most likely consider it a “set it and forget it” kind of decision. But there’s good reason to go back and check exactly what that 401(k) or equivalent is actually invested in, and make sure that money isn’t going to companies that are contributing to environmental harm. In fact, you can make sure the money is actively helping curb climate change.

Reevaluating your account isn’t just good for the environment, either.

Andrew Behar, CEO of the nonprofit watchdog and shareholder advocacy group As You Sow, says his organization’s mission is to help people “invest with intention.” It’s actually in your benefit to use such a strategy, he explains. The energy sector continues to be one of the worst performing sectors over the last decade. Meanwhile, the new presidential administration, with its robust climate change commitments, is expected to positively impact the returns on these kind of investments even further.

Here’s what you need to know in order to turn your retirement plan into a force for environmental good.

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