Zombie Myths of ESG
From TikTok videos on ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) investment to perspectives on emerging legislation, there's a lot of bad information out there about ESG.
But a few common myths keep popping up, so it might be helpful to arm you with useful information.
Myth #1: Businesses must report on a wide variety of topics, even if they're irrelevant to their business.
Truth: Guidelines suggest various topics and measures to address the most common ESG risks, but your leadership team determines which items are most relevant to your business.
Myth #2: Only publicly traded companies need an ESG report.
Truth: Even privately held companies face scrutiny from procurement officers, communities, employees and customers. Understanding the needs and preferences of each stakeholder group is a competitive opportunity waiting to be harnessed.
Myth #3: ESG standards are political stances hidden as business activities.
Truth: ESG standards are designed by leaders within an industry to identify key risks such as employee needs, risks to the value chain, regulatory alignment, infrastructure/ community needs, and customer expectations. Political contributions are the only recommended political disclosure (but again, are optional, not required.)
ESG can be an incredible way to assess risks, create cross-functional collaboration and innovate products and services that call your teams to a greater purpose.
If you ever need help cutting through the noise and understanding how this work can be used in your business, I am always –
Here for you,
Dora