Narrative

Trillium states that it is passionate about advocacy for ESG issues.  The Trillium website reports many of its results both through tables and charts and through narratives.  For examples of the narratives, browse through the webpage https://www.trilliuminvest.com.  Some of the information is most easily discovered by using the search icon coupled with keywords such as climate advocacy.

One example given in their material is the work with Chipotle, which seemed to be lagging behind its peers in addressing climate change.  Trillium joined with other investors in unsuccessful conversations with the company in 2019.  It finally filed a shareholder proposal with Chipotle, which led to more meaningful dialogue.  Chipotle agreed, among other things, to set emissions reduction targets and adopt new initiatives for its agricultural suppliers and supply chain.  Therefore, Trillium was able to withdraw its proposal in 2020.

Another example is the complex issue of plastic packaging along the chain from production to use to disposal.  Many companies are involved, pointing fingers at one another.  Trillium has pushed many companies, from packaging producer Sonoco, to users such as Target, Starbucks, and numerous others, and finally to Waste Management, Inc.  The problem is far from solved, and Trillium plans to continue engaging more companies in the future.

The 2025 Q2 report describes Trillium's efforts to get Bank of America and Verizon to publish information on their lobbying efforts to block or delay regulations that are designed to avert the climate crisis.  Also, Alphabet (GOOG) announced in 2021 that it would achieve net zero emissions of greenhouse gases by 2050, but in 2023 its emissions became notably worse because of expansion of work with artificial intelligence (AI).  In 2024 Trillium filed a shareholder proposal asking for greater transparency on this issue.

Funds Offered

Trillium offers seven funds with ESG in their name.  While not fully fossil-free, Trillium says, "We look to invest in companies with a business model designed to succeed in a low-carbon economy. At the same time, we avoid investing in companies with the greatest transition risks, namely fossil fuel companies without a transition plan we find credible."

Trillium also serves as day-to-day manager of funds owned by other firms, such as Green Century and John Hancock, and would also be happy to manage your money.

Fees and Hassles

An IRA can be set up so that withdrawals can be requested by phone.  However, the usual requirement of a Medallion signature guarantee, on paper, applies to any charitable donation.  In addition, for every one-time-only withdrawal there is a $25 fee.  However, if the owner sets up a systematic withdrawal plan, periodically giving money to some charity (or other recipient), there is no fee.

For owners of Institutional Class shares (balance more than $100,000), there are no fees to purchase or redeem shares.