In recent years, ESG has gained significant footing in business and is becoming crucial to sustainable investment strategies and decision-making in the future.
While the primary focus has been on environmental and governance, the importance of social factors in ESG is growing.
So, let’s delve into the “S” in ESG, why it’s important, and how you can integrate social factors into your investment, operations, and decision-making processes.
In case you need a refresher or are new to ESG, check out our post on ESG: What it is & why it should matter to your business.
What is the S in ESG?
The S in ESG stands for Social and is centred around an organisation’s relationships with people and its policies and actions that impact individuals, groups, and society.
Social factors encompass a broad range of issues, including:
- Human rights,
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion,
- Community engagement,
- Employee welfare,
- Health and safety,
- Geopolitical events,
- Product quality and safety,
- Employee development and training,
- Employee reward and renumeration,
- Privacy and data security,
- Accessibility,
- Supply chain management and transparency.
For example, businesses can commit to diversity, equity, and inclusion by employing equitable and accessible recruitment practices and fostering supportive and safe work environments. And a strong sense of employee purpose actively contributes to increased employee engagement which in turn is good for business.
The business benefits of doing so can be higher employee engagement and satisfaction, reduced employee turnover, diversity in perspectives and ideas, increased innovation, productivity and profits, happier customers, and a positive brand reputation.
What are the business benefits of incorporating social aspects into business strategies?
As ESG continues gaining momentum, it’s important to understand the significance of incorporating social factors into your overall business strategy, investment, and decision-making processes.
- Attract investment and funding: An increasing number of investors and funders seek organisations aligning with their values and demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
- Increased employee engagement: Engaged employees are more likely to stay with their employees, be more present and productive, and have a greater commitment to quality and safety. This can also translate into happier customers and increased profitability.
- Regulatory, contract and reporting requirements: ESG clauses are increasingly being built into regulations, contracts, and mandatory reporting requirements.
- Long-term sustainability: Recognising and addressing the social factors in ESG is essential for businesses to support long-term sustainability and maintain positive stakeholder relationships
“Even in uncertain times, purpose needs to remain at the forefront of sustainability and corporate strategy conversations because investing in social impact is an engine for business growth, operations, and risk management.” – Lolita Castrique-Meier, Director at FSG
- Stakeholder relationships and brand reputation: By incorporating social aspects into ESG strategies, businesses can enhance relationships and their overall reputation with employees, customers, suppliers, stakeholders, and the communities they are active.
- Quality standards and risk mitigation: By encompassing social factors into your business’s day-to-day operations, you establish standards to mitigate operational risks and ensure that your operations do not harm employees, the greater society or exploit vulnerable people and communities.
Positioning your business for long-term success in an evolving business landscape.
As ESG continues to gain traction and shape the future of business and investment, it is crucial to recognise and integrate social factors into your overall strategy.
The “S” in ESG represents various issues that impact individuals, communities, and society.
By committing to diversity, inclusion, employee welfare and development, community engagement, and other social factors, businesses can foster long-term sustainability, attract investment, build strong stakeholder relationships, and enhance their brand reputation.
Remember, by embracing social responsibility and incorporating ESG into your business practices, you are helping to drive positive social impact and positioning your business for long-term success in an evolving business landscape.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in integrating ESG principles and social factors into your financial and investment decisions. Call us on (08) 6318 2777, or email us at secure@ledge.com.au. We will be happy to assist.
Learn more in our ESG series
Understanding the E in ESG: Environmental Considerations for Your Business
How to create a robust ESG strategy
Using ESG in future planning for the Crane Industry
ESG & Increasing Regulator Focus on Greenwashing
