In the landscape of modern business, the acronym "ESG" has become increasingly prominent. But what exactly does it entail, and why should companies prioritize it? As Tom Andresen Gosselin, the ESG Practice Director at Schellman, elucidates, there are five pivotal benefits to embracing ESG principles.
5 Reasons to Invest in ESG
1. You'll Enhance Your Brand and Reputation.
In a competitive market, brand reputation can make or break a company. Addressing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues not only demonstrates a commitment to ethical practices but also aligns with consumer expectations so it's no wonder that many companies are already integrating ESG into their strategies to some extent.
2. You'll Attract Capital.
The financial realm is increasingly favoring investments that prioritize ESG criteria—approximately one-third of global assets under management are now guided by ESG principles, with this figure projected to rise significantly in the coming years.
For companies seeking capital or looking to attract investors, embracing ESG is no longer optional—it's essential.
3. You'll Position Yourself to Navigate the Evolving Regulatory Landscape.
As the regulatory environment continues to evolve rapidly, there's a growing emphasis on climate change and broader ESG concerns—recent developments include California's expansive climate data law and the EU's sustainability reporting framework.
Staying ahead of regulatory requirements not only ensures compliance but also fosters long-term resilience and adaptability.
4. You'll Attract Top Talent.
In today's competitive job market, attracting and retaining talent is paramount. In this, ESG and diversity and inclusion initiatives are increasingly important factors, so by prioritizing ESG, you can distinguish your organization as an employer of choice while also fostering a diverse, engaged workforce.
5. You'll Drive Organizational Efficiency.
Contrary to popular belief, ESG initiatives can directly contribute to better financial performance, as initiatives such as greenhouse gas emissions reporting can create cost savings and operational efficiencies.
By integrating ESG into your operations, you can streamline operations while mitigating risks associated with corporate scandals and regulatory non-compliance.
Get Started with ESG
All in all, the case for embracing ESG is compelling and multi-faceted. Beyond mere ethical considerations, ESG offers tangible benefits ranging from improved brand reputation to enhanced financial performance. As businesses navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world, prioritizing ESG is not just a moral imperative—it's a strategic imperative for long-term success.
But embracing ESG isn't just about doing what's right—it's about unlocking the full potential of your organization in a rapidly changing world.
About Schellman
Schellman is a leading provider of attestation and compliance services. We are the only company in the world that is a CPA firm, a globally licensed PCI Qualified Security Assessor, an ISO Certification Body, HITRUST CSF Assessor, a FedRAMP 3PAO, and most recently, an APEC Accountability Agent. Renowned for expertise tempered by practical experience, Schellman's professionals provide superior client service balanced by steadfast independence. Our approach builds successful, long-term relationships and allows our clients to achieve multiple compliance objectives through a single third-party assessor.