ESG - A New Paradigm for Business

The term sustainability is overused but at its core it is simply about recognising that we cannot have a thriving economy without a healthy planet and a more equitable society. In the context of COVID-19, the climate crisis and rising social inequality and populism, businesses are increasingly under pressure – from finance providers, governments and consumers - to show that they are playing their part in shaping a more sustainable future.

The pressures on business from finance providers is attributable to the increasing recognition that sustainability related risks and opportunities, which span Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) issues, are financially material and can significantly influence profitability and long-term value. As a result, investors, banks and insurance providers are now evaluating companies through an ESG lens. They want to know that the companies they are investing in, lending to, or insuring, are managing ESG well. It is therefore essential that businesses understand the ESG issues that are relevant to them and can demonstrate clear strategies and policies to manage the risks and take advantage of the opportunities. Added to this there is a surge of new EU regulation around companies’ disclosure and reporting on ESG, intensifying the focus on the topic.

The bottom line is that being able to demonstrate robust ESG credentials is becoming a must-have for business. Having a clear sustainability or ESG strategy in place is mission critical for your organisation and its growth. This is about your stakeholders, your people and the future success of your business.

Programme outcomes:

On completion of this seminar, participants will be able to navigate the jargon and emerge with a firm understanding of ESG and how it relates to their business. They will learn how better management of ESG issues can create business benefits, from improved risk management, to enhanced reputation, increased profitability, and better access to capital. A high-level overview of recent regulatory obligations will help participants understand what is required and what optional or nice-to have. And participants will be given an overview on how to develop their own sustainability/ESG strategy with real case studies and practical advice.