
ESG strategy consulting is a crucial step for businesses looking to drive sustainable growth. Many companies are now prioritizing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in their decision-making processes.
By integrating ESG considerations into their strategies, businesses can reduce their environmental footprint, improve their social impact, and enhance their long-term financial performance. This can lead to increased brand value, improved customer loyalty, and better relationships with investors and stakeholders.
According to a recent survey, 75% of investors consider ESG factors when making investment decisions. This highlights the growing importance of ESG in the business world.
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What We Do
At Georgeson, our ESG consulting services are designed to help you navigate the complex world of Environmental, Social and Governance. We can help you understand your ESG regulatory landscape.
Our team will work with you to set an ESG strategy and implementation plan that integrates into your business objectives and other disclosures while setting measurable goals. This will help you establish a clear direction for your ESG efforts.
We'll also help you establish or improve a plan for reporting based on your company's approach, taking into account investor expectations and reporting obligations. This will ensure you're communicating effectively with your stakeholders.
Our ESG consulting services include mapping disclosures and current practices to the ESG standards and frameworks your investors prefer. This will give you a clear understanding of how you measure up to your peers.
We'll also provide you with clarity on how your investors are prioritizing and acting on ESG-related issues, so you can inform effective engagement. This will help you stay ahead of the curve and make informed decisions.
Here are some key areas where we can help:
- Set an ESG strategy and implementation plan
- Establish or improve a plan for reporting
- Map disclosures and current practices to ESG standards and frameworks
- Gain clarity on investor priorities and actions
- Understand the ESG proposal landscape and respond to proposals
- Make sense of your ratings and resolve issues
- Engage with your board and management on ESG
- Engage with your investors in a meaningful way
By working with us, you'll be able to advance your ESG practice and communicate effectively with your stakeholders.
Services
An ESG strategy consulting firm can provide a range of services to help companies integrate ESG and sustainability factors into their business operations.
ESG consulting firms offer services such as ESG and climate risk assessment and analysis, ESG strategy development and implementation, ESG monitoring and reporting, stakeholder engagement, and ESG ratings and rankings and performance improvement.
One of the key services offered by ESG consulting firms is ESG reporting, which involves preparing and publishing reports that disclose a company's ESG performance and progress.
To develop a comprehensive ESG strategy, a consulting firm may use a variety of tools and techniques, including materiality assessments and stakeholder assessments.
A materiality assessment helps identify the ESG issues that are most relevant to a company's business and stakeholders, while a stakeholder assessment identifies the key stakeholders who have a vested interest in a company's ESG performance.
A consulting firm may also provide support for developing a sustainability governance framework, which outlines a company's approach to managing ESG risks and opportunities.
Here are some of the specific services offered by ESG consulting firms:
- Claims Advisory (de-risking and validating ESG claims)
- CDP Disclosure and Scoring Optimization
- Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)
- Double Materiality Assessment
- Sustainability Advisory
- ESG Brochure
- ESG Impact Assessment
- ESG Policy Development
- ESG Report Writing/Production
- ESG Reporting Plan
- ESG Reporting Workshop
- ESG Strategy Roadmap
- ESG Toolkit
- Impact Storytelling
- Gap Analysis
- Key Message Development
- Materiality Assessment
- Peer Benchmarking
- Rating & Ranking Optimization (EcoVadis, Sustainalytics, etc.)
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Strategic Planning
- Sustainability Governance
- Sustainable Finance
- Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosure (TCFD) Maturity Assessment
- TCFD Reporting
- TCFD Scenario Analysis
- Task Force on Nature-Related Financial Disclosure (TNFD) Analysis and Reporting
A consulting firm may also help develop a balanced scorecard, which provides a framework for measuring and tracking a company's ESG performance.
Additionally, a firm may provide support for responsible product and technology plans, which involve developing products and technologies that are environmentally sustainable and socially responsible.
By working with an ESG strategy consulting firm, companies can gain access to industry-experienced consultants and experts who can help them develop and implement a comprehensive ESG strategy.
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Sustainability and Reporting
Effective ESG reporting is crucial for companies to navigate risks and opportunities associated with their impacts. More than 90 percent of publicly traded companies voluntarily report in adherence to one or more ESG frameworks.
Companies should evaluate the impact that ESG reporting will have on stakeholders and the business, and review the competitive landscape and demands of their investors, customers, and workers to determine the best ESG reporting approach. Advanced ESG reporting software solutions can provide an audit trail while easing data collection and management processes for teams.
ESG consultant support can help companies select the best technology tool for their organization's needs, ensuring a smooth and effective reporting process.
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Sustainability
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword, it's a business imperative. Companies are increasingly exposed to ESG issues, from climate change to social justice, and need to analyze and manage these risks.
Effective ESG reporting and communications are crucial in navigating these risks and opportunities. We design strategies and implement measurement, reporting, disclosure, and stakeholder management for our clients to effectively communicate their ESG narrative and key messaging.
More than 90 percent of publicly traded companies voluntarily report in adherence to one or more ESG frameworks. This shows the importance of ESG reporting in today's business landscape.
Sustainability tax credits are a bottom-line opportunity for companies that implement an ESG program. By taking advantage of existing federal, state, and local green energy tax credits, companies can reduce their tax liability.
A sustainable supply chain is critical for businesses to mitigate climate-related risks and identify business opportunities. Supply chain consultants can implement data collection software, identify supply chain related business opportunities and climate-related risks, and deploy strategy across the supply chain.
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Here are some ways a supply chain consultant can support your company:
- Implement Supply Chain and data collection software, Scope 3 footprint, 3PL
- Identify supply chain related business opportunities and climate-related risks
- Deploy strategy across your supply chain and engage all supply tiers on ESG practices
Advanced ESG reporting software solutions can provide an audit trail and ease the data collection and management processes for teams. An ESG consultant can support your company in selecting the best technology tool for your organization's needs.
Certification Guidance
Obtaining third party verification of your ESG commitment and success can be a game-changer for your company. Some companies choose to obtain third party verification of their ESG commitment and success.
Only one-third of the companies that undertake the B Corporation Certification assessment and verification process achieve certification. It's a rigorous process, but worth it for the credibility it brings.
Getting assistance from a multidisciplinary team of ESG experts can help you achieve your desired certification and maximize your efforts. This team can provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the process.
Internal communications professionals can play a crucial role in building alignment and engagement with your ESG Certification, which can support recruiting and retention efforts.
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Strategy and Implementation
Developing a comprehensive ESG strategy is crucial for businesses to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities. ClimeCo offers a range of services to support this process, including greenhouse gas accounting, target-setting, and climate scenario analysis.
Carbon Asset Development is a key component of ESG strategy, enabling businesses to identify and capitalize on opportunities for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. ClimeCo's experts can help clients develop carbon asset development strategies.
A robust ESG program requires cross-functional collaboration and a clear roadmap. Equipped with a readiness assessment and roadmap, businesses can establish a detailed ESG program with objectives and key results to advance initiatives.
Some of the key services offered by ESG consulting firms include ESG and climate risk assessment and analysis, ESG strategy development and implementation, and ESG monitoring and reporting. These services are essential for businesses to integrate ESG and sustainability factors into their operations.
Here are some specific services that can support ESG strategy implementation:
- Carbon Asset Development
- Climate Advisory
- Climate Risk Scenario Analysis
- Co-pollutant inventories
- Decarbonization Planning
- Design, Build, and Manage GHG Reduction Projects
- Funds Tracking
- GHG Abatement Plan or Strategy
- GHG Accounting
- GHG Footprint (Scope 1, 2, and 3)
A Sustainability Roadmap is a critical tool for businesses to prioritize ESG initiatives and minimize risks. This roadmap includes a list of initiatives that can be completed along a short, medium, and long-term horizon to provide quick wins and strategic investments in improving Environmental, Social, and Governance impacts.
ESG consulting firms also offer services such as ESG reporting, stakeholder engagement, and ESG ratings and rankings. These services help businesses to improve their ESG performance and reputation.
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Choosing a Consultant
Registered public accountants have been held to stringent standards for the last 100 years, and fraud prevention reporting standards for the last 20 years.
To ensure you're hiring a reputable Sustainability and ESG Consultant, look for one who works for a registered public accounting firm.
A firm with ESG certification, such as B Corporation, can also give you peace of mind.
Here are some key questions to ask potential ESG consulting service providers:
- Does the Sustainability and ESG Consultant work for a registered public accounting firm?
- Does the firm have ESG certification such as B Corporation?
- Does the firm utilize a globally-recognized framework for reporting?
- Is the Sustainability and ESG Consultant a subject matter expert with industry experience and/or professional certifications?
What is a consultant?
A consultant is someone who provides expertise and guidance to help businesses solve problems or achieve their goals. They can be hired to provide specific services, such as sustainability and ESG consulting.
A Sustainability and ESG consultant has in-depth knowledge about ESG strategy, program implementation, and reporting. They can share insights on the regulatory landscape, ESG trends, and best practices.
These consultants can help businesses navigate the complex world of ESG frameworks and reporting requirements. They can assess which frameworks and reporting requirements apply to a business and provide guidance on how to implement them.
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Some benefits of hiring a Sustainability and ESG consultant include knowledge of ESG materiality issues across various industries and access to technology solutions to streamline the ESG reporting process. They can also help businesses make sense of the many ESG frameworks and develop a strategy that aligns business goals with ESG initiatives.
A key benefit of hiring a consultant is that they can provide access to technology solutions to reduce the error-prone and time-consuming manual data entry process for ESG reporting. This can save businesses time and resources.
Here are some key services that a Sustainability and ESG consultant can provide:
- Knowledge of ESG materiality issues across a diverse set of industries
- Assess which ESG frameworks and reporting requirements apply to your business
- Application of financial reporting principals and controls to non-financial data
- Access to technology solutions to reduce the error-prone and time-consuming manual data entry process for ESG reporting
Flexible Arrangements
When hiring a consultant, it's essential to consider the flexibility of the arrangement. A Fractional Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) can be a great option for companies that need strategic guidance and leadership alignment without the commitment of a full-time employee.
With a Fractional CSO, you can expect to work with experienced professionals who have built and deployed ESG strategies and execution roadmaps to improve ESG. They bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, making them a valuable asset to your organization.
One of the benefits of hiring a Fractional CSO is that you can design a sustainability engagement tailored to your company's needs. This flexibility is particularly useful for companies that require deep expertise and immediate response to tackle a pressing sustainability project.
A Fractional CSO can act as a dedicated resource for your organization, providing strategic guidance, leading organizational change, and addressing data systems design & optimization. They can help you scale fast without the commitment of bringing on a full-time employee.
Here are some reasons why companies choose to hire a Fractional CSO over an in-house CSO:
- To maximize experience
- To ramp up quickly
- For a temporary situation
- Because they require deep expertise and immediate response to tackle a pressing sustainability project
How to Choose a Consultant
Choosing a consultant can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to sustainability and ESG consulting. To ensure you make the right choice, consider the consulting firm's proficiency, experience, and performance track record. This will give you a sense of their ability to deliver results.
Look for a firm that has a strong methodology and approach, as well as the capacity to provide ongoing support and monitoring. This will help you understand how they will work with your organization and ensure your ESG program is successful.
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One critical factor to consider is cultural compatibility. Since ESG consulting firms work closely with clients, it's essential to choose a firm that aligns with your organizational values and culture.
Here are some key questions to ask potential ESG consulting service providers:
• Does the Sustainability and ESG Consultant work for a registered public accounting firm?
• Does the firm have ESG certification such as B Corporation?
• Does the firm utilize a globally-recognized framework such as the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), the Task Force for Climate-Related Financial Disclosure (TCFD), the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) or others for reporting?
• Is the Sustainability and ESG Consultant a subject matter expert with industry experience and/or professional certifications such as the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board FSA?
• Does the Sustainability and ESG Consultant utilize technology tools to support their services?
• Does the Sustainability and ESG Consultant have a published services approach to share with you?
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Contact Our Experts
If you're looking for a consultant to help with your ESG strategy, it's essential to find experts who have the right experience and credentials.
Armanino, for example, has a team of ESG assurance subject matter experts who have been recognized for their work, including winning the United Nations Global Climate Action Award.
When selecting a consultant, consider their background and expertise. Georgeson, for instance, has a global team of ESG experts with diverse backgrounds, including proxy advisor, legal, investor stewardship, equity analyst, ESG analyst, and corporate secretary experience.
You can also look for consultants who have worked with major companies and sustainability consulting firms, such as former CSOs and Sustainability Directors. These individuals bring strategic vision, solution best practices, and deep industry knowledge to the table.
If you're looking for specific expertise in areas like carbon footprinting, DEI, waste management, or materials, consider consulting with a sustainability subject-matter expert. These individuals have deep expertise gained from industry, NGOs, government, or academia.
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Some consultants, like Armanino, are also certified B Corporations, which means they're committed to using their business as a force for good. They can help you develop an impactful ESG program and provide ESG compliance services to support business growth.
Here are some options to consider:
By considering these factors and options, you can find the right consultant to help you achieve your ESG goals.
Our Approach
We approach sustainability consulting differently than many firms. Our clients often recognize that their ESG performance and data management has become a roadblock for in-house resources.
We help them turn ESG into a core component of company growth by leveraging our consulting resources. Our team identifies supply chain related business opportunities and climate-related risks.
We can implement Supply Chain and data collection software, Scope 3 footprint, and 3PL solutions to support our clients' ESG goals. We also engage all supply tiers on ESG practices through a deployed strategy across the supply chain.
Our approach includes:
- Implementing Supply Chain and data collection software
- Deploying strategy across the supply chain
- Engaging all supply tiers on ESG practices
- Identifying supply chain related business opportunities and climate-related risks
Sustainable Supply Chain Advisors
Our Sustainable Supply Chain Advisors help clients navigate the complexities of sustainable supply chain management. They can implement Supply Chain and data collection software, Scope 3 footprint, and 3PL solutions to streamline operations.
These experts will identify supply chain related business opportunities and climate-related risks, enabling clients to make informed decisions. This involves analyzing the entire supply chain, from production to delivery.
Our advisors can deploy strategy across your supply chain and engage all supply tiers on ESG practices, ensuring a cohesive approach to sustainability. This includes educating suppliers on best practices and monitoring their progress.
Here are some key areas our Sustainable Supply Chain Advisors can help with:
- Implementing Supply Chain and data collection software
- Identifying supply chain related business opportunities and climate-related risks
- Deploying strategy across your supply chain and engaging all supply tiers on ESG practices
Good Lab Advantage
At Good Lab, we're dedicated to helping companies uncover and manage sustainability risk. Our team of experts leverages our end-to-end sustainability software to work faster and more efficiently.
We believe that every company has the potential to drive greater impact without wasting resources. By leveraging software along with industry playbook best-practices, our consultants empower your company to align with your core sustainability strategy and operations.
Our approach is unique compared to other consulting firms. Unlike them, we don't just rely on individual expertise, but also on our cutting-edge software that streamlines the sustainability management process.
Here are some key benefits of our approach:
- Unprecedented access to former sustainability professionals at leading companies
- End-to-end sustainability software for faster and more efficient work
- Alignment with industry playbook best-practices for core sustainability strategy and operations
By partnering with us, you can expect a comprehensive solution that addresses your sustainability needs. From Environmental, Social, and Governance program launch to metrics collection and infrastructure optimization, we've got you covered.
We Approach Differently
Our clients recognize that their ESG performance and data management has become a roadblock for in-house resources, so they engage us to help.
We've seen firsthand how ESG can be a major obstacle for companies, taking up too much time and resources, leaving them unable to focus on growth.
Our consulting resources help turn ESG into a core component of company growth, which is exactly what our clients need to achieve their goals.
We know that every company is unique, but our approach remains the same: we help our clients overcome ESG challenges and unlock new opportunities for growth.
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Our Team and Capabilities
Our team of ESG experts brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. We have a global team of experts with diverse backgrounds, including proxy advisor, legal, investor stewardship, equity analyst, ESG analyst, and corporate secretary experience.
Our team includes a US Service Line Director - Advisory, a LatAm Head of ESG Strategic Advisory, and a Technical Director, Climate Change and Net Zero Strategy – Asia Pacific, among others. Each member of our team has a specific skillset in ESG and sustainability sub-domains.
We have a Technical Director, ESG Strategic Advisory – Asia Pacific, and a Managing Consultant, ESG Strategic Advisory – Asia Pacific, who lead projects with a focus on carbon footprinting, DEI, waste management, and materials. Our team is led by a US Service Line Director - Advisory and a LatAm Head of ESG Strategic Advisory.
We have a range of sustainability subject-matter experts who bring specific skillsets in ESG and sustainability sub-domains. They have deep expertise gained from industry, NGO, government, and academia.
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Our team includes a EU Regional Service Line Director - ESG Advisory, a Technical Director, Climate Change and Net Zero Strategy – Asia Pacific, and a Technical Director, ESG Strategic Advisory – Asia Pacific. We also have a Managing Consultant, ESG Strategic Advisory – Asia Pacific.
Here are some of the specific services we offer:
- Claims Advisory (de-risking and validating ESG claims)
- CDP Disclosure and Scoring Optimization
- Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)
- Double Materiality Assessment
- Sustainability Advisory
- ESG Brochure
- ESG Impact Assessment
- ESG Policy Development
- ESG Report Writing/Production
- ESG Reporting Plan
- ESG Reporting Workshop
- ESG Strategy Roadmap
- ESG Toolkit
- Impact Storytelling
- Gap Analysis
- Key Message Development
- Materiality Assessment
- Peer Benchmarking
- Rating & Ranking Optimization (EcoVadis, Sustainalytics, etc.)
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Strategic Planning
- Sustainability Governance
- Sustainable Finance
- Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosure (TCFD) Maturity Assessment
- TCFD Reporting
- TCFD Scenario Analysis
- Task Force on Nature-Related Financial Disclosure (TNFD) Analysis and Reporting
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