This article does a good job of simplifying a few of the key components of the E (environmental), the S (social) and the G (governance) in an ESG program. It also offers a checklist for developing an ESG strategy.
If you are a SME, our STRONG recommendation is to take it slow and NOT to start with it. We recommend you….
- Start with becoming environmentally certified sustainable. This is the ‘E’ in ESG. This is what consumers are demanding and it typically provides you the greatest ROI. If you pick the right program, it also provides the foundation for everything else you may choose to do later; allowing you to do it easier and less expensively.
- Then, catch your breath and get that sustainability program working to your satisfaction, generating the benefits to your company that others are enjoying.
- Next step is to pursue carbon neutrality certification. This is an easy step after your sustainability certification. In our case, we do both (the Edenark Group ISO 14001 provides you the sustainability certification and the Edenark Group ISO 14065 / 14001 provides you the carbon neutrality certification). This typically generates the second highest ROI, driven by market demand.
- Then catch your breath again and ensure that both programs are accomplishing your goals.
- Next step is to turn to ESG, which is far easier with a foundation of sustainability and carbon neutrality certification. We help you develop this program and the Edenark Group “A Better World Starts With Me” can be a foundational piece to this.
- Catch your breath again.
- Finally, focus on Net Zero certification. It is last as it requires information from entities outside your organization. It is a step up from your carbon neutrality certification and again, we help you get there and provide your Net Zero certification.
Point is, start with what will have the biggest impact and work at a pace that fits your organization. It is not hard or painful if you have the proper help and don’t try to do too much, too fast.