What is ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance)?
Tegan Oliver 
Date published: Jun 02, 23
In recent years, the overall impact a business has on its industry and the environment has been closely monitored following increasing concerns surrounding climate change and the social impact of large corporations.
As a result, the concept of measuring an organisations environmental impact, social practices and governance structure (ESG) has not only been recognised but actively encouraged by organisations worldwide. In this blog we will delve into the world of ESG, exploring its key components and the importance of ESG reporting.
What does ESG mean?
ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. Let's break down each element:
- Environmental: The environmental part of ESG looks at the impact a company has on the environment. This includes assessing its resource usage, carbon emissions, waste management, pollution prevention, and efforts towards adopting sustainable practices. Measuring the environmental impact offers great insight for investors and shareholders surrounding the organisation's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
- Social: The social aspect of ESG dives into an organisation's relationship and communications with employees, customers and suppliers. It encompasses various factors such as labour practices, employee welfare, diversity and inclusion, human rights, product safety, customer satisfaction, and community engagement. Evaluating a company's social practices provides insights into its commitment to social responsibility and ethical conduct.
- Governance: Governance refers to a company's internal structure, policies, and practices. It reviews the transparency, risk management, and ethical behaviour of directors and key stakeholders within the organisation. Strong governance practices ensure accountability, integrity, and responsible decision-making within an organisation.
What is ESG reporting for businesses?
ESG reports provide a comprehensive assessment of a company's ESG performance and serve as a means of transparency for stakeholders, including investors, regulators, and the general public. These reports present data, metrics, and narratives that highlight the company's ESG initiatives, progress, and future goals.
ESG reporting involves the systematic collection and disclosure of ESG-related information. Companies voluntarily choose to prepare and publish ESG reports, although some regulators are starting to mandate ESG disclosures. ESG reports are typically created based on globally recognized frameworks such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).
The importance of ESG reporting:
ESG reporting offers several benefits to companies and stakeholders:
- Enhanced transparency: ESG reporting provides a clear understanding of all aspects surrounding environmental, social and governance practices. This encourages accountability within the business and allows stakeholders to make informed decisions.
- Risk management: carrying out an ESG assessment helps identify potential risks and opportunities that may impact a company's performance. By addressing these risks proactively, companies can improve resilience and safeguard their reputation.
- Competitive advantage: Companies that prioritise ESG and effectively communicate their efforts through reporting can differentiate themselves in the market. Many investors now consider ESG performance when making investment decisions, making it crucial for companies to showcase their commitment to sustainability and responsible practices.
- Stakeholder engagement: ESG reporting facilitates dialogue and engagement with stakeholders, including investors, employees, customers, and communities. It helps build trust and strengthens relationships by demonstrating a company's commitment to social and environmental concerns.
How can your business improve its ESG reporting?
ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) has emerged as a critical framework for evaluating a company's sustainability and ethical practices. By considering environmental impact, social practices, and governance structure, ESG enables investors and stakeholders to make informed decisions that align with their values and goals. ESG reporting plays a vital role in enhancing transparency, managing risks, gaining a competitive advantage, and engaging stakeholders.
Choosing the right ESG framework for your business
Read more about the most popular ESG frameworks that could improve your reporting and business performance.