Frequently Asked Questions

Learn the basics of ESG-related terms and definitions

Q: What is ESG and why is it important for companies to focus on ESG issues?

A: ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. It refers to the non-financial factors that can affect a company's performance and long-term sustainability. ESG issues can include climate change, human rights, diversity and inclusion, executive compensation, and corporate governance, among others. It's important for companies to focus on ESG issues because they can have a significant impact on a company's reputation, financial performance, and ability to attract and retain talent. By addressing ESG issues, companies can enhance their long-term value and build a more resilient and sustainable business.

Q: How can my company develop and implement an effective ESG strategy ?

A: Developing and implementing an effective ESG strategy requires a systematic and comprehensive approach. It should involve identifying the most material ESG risks and opportunities for the company, setting clear goals and targets, engaging with stakeholders, and integrating ESG considerations into decision-making processes. An effective ESG strategy should also be aligned with the company's overall business strategy and be supported by strong leadership and governance.

Q: What ESG frameworks and reporting standards should my company use ?

A: There are several ESG frameworks and reporting standards available, including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), among others. The choice of framework and reporting standard will depend on the company's specific needs, industry, and stakeholder expectations. It's important to choose a framework and standard that is credible, relevant, and provides clear guidance on how to report and measure ESG performance.

Q: What are the key ESG risks and opportunities associated with my company or industry?

A: The key ESG risks and opportunities will vary depending on the company or industry. It's important to conduct a thorough ESG risk assessment to identify the most material ESG issues and determine the potential impact on the company's performance and reputation. Some common ESG risks and opportunities include climate change, natural resource depletion, human rights violations, supply chain disruptions, and changes in consumer behaviour, among others.

Q: How can my company measure the impact of our ESG programs?

A: Measuring the impact of ESG programs requires setting clear goals and targets, selecting appropriate metrics and indicators, and establishing a robust monitoring and reporting system. The choice of metrics and indicators will depend on the company's specific ESG goals and priorities. It's important to ensure that the metrics and indicators are aligned with the company's overall business strategy and that they provide meaningful and actionable insights.

Q: How can ESG factors be integrated into our investment decision-making process?

A: ESG factors can be integrated into the investment decision-making process by considering the materiality and relevance of ESG issues, using ESG analysis and data to inform investment decisions, and engaging with companies on ESG issues. This can include conducting ESG due diligence, analysing ESG risks and opportunities, and using ESG ratings and research to evaluate companies' ESG performance.

Q: What are the best practices for engaging with stakeholders on ESG issues ?

A: The best practices for engaging with stakeholders on ESG issues include identifying the most relevant stakeholders, establishing clear communication channels, setting clear goals and objectives for engagement, and incorporating stakeholder feedback into decision-making processes. It's important to listen to stakeholder perspectives and concerns, be transparent about the company's ESG performance and challenges, and establish a collaborative and constructive dialogue with stakeholders.

Q: How can my company improve our ESG performance and manage ESG risks more effectively ?

A: To improve ESG performance and manage ESG risks more effectively, companies should consider the following steps:

• Conduct a materiality assessment to identify the ESG issues that are most important to the business and its stakeholders.

• Set clear ESG goals and targets that align with the company's overall strategy.

• Develop and implement ESG policies and procedures that address the identified material issues.

• Regularly monitor and measure ESG performance, and report progress to stakeholders.

• Engage with internal and external stakeholders on ESG issues to understand their perspectives and concerns.

• Continuously review and update the company's ESG strategy and programs to ensure they remain effective and relevant.

Q: How can my company stay up to date on the latest ESG developments and best practices ?

A: To stay up to date on the latest ESG developments and best practices, companies should consider the following steps:

• Regularly monitor and review ESG-related news and publications from reputable sources.

• Engage with industry associations and networks to stay informed on emerging trends and best practices.

• Attend relevant conferences and events to learn from experts and peers in the field.

• Work with ESG consultants and advisors who can provide specialised knowledge and expertise.

• Participate in ESG benchmarking and rating programs to better understand the company's performance relative to peers and identify areas for improvement.

Q: What is ESG consulting?

A: ESG consulting is the process of helping companies integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into their operations and decision-making processes. ESG consulting firms like ours work with companies to develop sustainable strategies, report on their ESG performance, and manage risks associated with ESG issues.

Q: Why is ESG important for companies?

A: ESG is important for companies because it can help mitigate risks, improve reputation and relationship with stakeholders, and create opportunities for growth and innovation. Additionally, investors and other stakeholders are increasingly looking for companies to demonstrate commitment to ESG, making it a key factor in long-term success.

Q: How do you help companies integrate ESG?

A: We help companies integrate ESG by working with them to develop sustainable strategies, report on their ESG performance, and manage risks associated with ESG issues. We use data-driven and internationally recognized approaches to ensure that the solutions we provide are effective and recognized by investors and other stakeholders. Additionally, we prioritize stakeholder engagement, working closely with our clients to understand the perspectives of their stakeholders and incorporate them into their ESG strategies.

Q: What are some of the services you offer?

A: Our services include ESG strategy development, sustainability reporting, and risk management. We can also help with sustainability communications, stakeholder engagement, and ESG performance assessments.

Q: How do you ensure the solutions you provide are effective and recognized by investors?

A: We use data-driven and internationally recognized approaches such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) to ensure that the solutions we provide are effective and recognized by investors and other stakeholders.

Q: How do you prioritize stakeholder engagement?

A: We prioritize stakeholder engagement by working closely with our clients to understand the perspectives of their stakeholders and incorporate them into their ESG strategies. This includes conducting stakeholder engagement activities such as surveys, focus groups, and interviews to understand their concerns, expectations and preferences.

At SustainExis, we understand that navigating the world of ESG can be challenging, but we're here to help. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping companies of all sizes integrate ESG principles into their operations and decision-making processes.

Whether you're looking to develop a sustainable strategy, report on your ESG performance or manage risks associated with ESG issues, we can help.

Get in touch and start your ESG journey with us !