Social and environmental performance of companies will become a major aspect of investors' decision-making within three years, according to the results of a survey of almost 400 fund managers and analysts.

The survey found that 52% of managers and 47% of analysts believe social and environmental criteria will become a significant consideration before buying a company. The survey was conducted by CSR Europe, the non-profit organisation, consultancy firm Deloitte and Touche and Euronext.