Chicago-based Envestnet Asset Management is to launch a new platform next month that will offer mutual funds and exchange traded funds comprising companies that are socially conscious and have strong environmental records. Stocks of companies that manufacture weapons, produce alcohol, generate nuclear power or produce adult entertainment or tobacco products will be excluded from the platform. Among the managers that plan to participate are Calvert Group, Neuberger Berman and Domini Social Investments. Bill Crager, president of Envestnet, predicted that the platform will bring in at least $1 billion in assets in 2008. "There is a real momentum toward thinking more consciously toward the world we live in," he said. "I don't think this is going to happen and go away." The demand for socially conscious investment opportunities was reflected in a survey from Allianz Global Investors Distributors of New York which revealed that 73 per cent of investors viewed environmental-technology companies favourably, and 50 per cent planned to make green investments this year. The survey reflected the views of 1,003 investors. Envestnet has $50 billion in assets under management.