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Experts says it's time for retail investors to consider how global warming affects stocks, bonds and other investments alongside more traditional indicators like earnings estimates and growth projections. "It's not only completely possible for investors to include these factors in their decision-making and their portfolios or in their manager selection, but I don't know why you wouldn't given that it helps you identify a better business," said Bruno Bertocci, who leads UBS Global Asset Management's sustainability business strategy. The metrics vary by industry. Some companies disclose climate change as a risk in their annual regulatory filings. Or they report greenhouse gas emissions and efforts to clean up their supply chains. Others may not report the specific risk, but savvy investors can anticipate trends that are likely to hurt or help the broader industry. In short, it's time to pick global warming's winners and losers.



The immediate effect of climate change on some industries is more obvious, thanks to government action.

Take coal companies, for example. On Monday, the Environmental Protection Agency announced new regulations requiring power companies to cut carbon dioxide emissions 30 percent by 2030. Read MoreUS unveils sweeping plan to slash power plant pollution Those and other potential carbon-related regulations on fossil fuel companies could make their operations much more costly as consumers switch to natural gas and other alternatives. Oil companies could ultimately lose much of the resource reserves that have driven their company's high valuations, the so-called "stranded assets" problem. Governments also appear likely to continue subsidies for clean energy companies. That could make wind, solar and other alternative power businesses attractive for long-term investment despite short-term valuation volatility. Tax breaks could also help automakers increase electric vehicle production, for example, or companies switch their trucking fleets to natural gas. "As governments take action to curb greenhouse gas emissions and as consumers give preference to energy-efficient products, investors will see related risks and opportunities in their portfolios," said Meg Voorhes, director of research at the Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment. "Carbon-intensive companies will likely operate at a disadvantage to their less carbon-intensive peers by sector, and companies that offer energy efficiency and other climate solutions will have new business opportunities." Read More Ex Goldman risk chief: Stanford coal cut a 'tipping point'

Companies that help reduce energy consumption also stand to profit—a potential boon for investors. Home builders, for example could gain from new construction standards in heating and lighting. Or technology companies that control energy usage could profit from increasing consumer desire to cut utility costs. Tech firms that make energy-saving batteries or semiconductors could also gain in value. Read MoreGoogle's Nest acquisitionis now final