often higher than those from traditional investments over the long term. Wermuth says this type of investing can also be used as a hedge against inflation, since the long term costs for such innovations as solar panels, for example, are known in advance. Sarah Caygill, member of senior advisory board at Wermuth AM, says impact investing "seems to be the next big theme for family offices globally." Investors are particularly showing an interest post financial crisis, which has left them feeling let down by banks and traditional asset management. One of the sectors that plays a significant part in the space is clean technology. This includes recycling, renewable energy, information technology, green transportation, lighting and various energy efficient appliances.