In recent years, many South African companies have begun to integrate Environmental Sustainability & Governance (ESG) and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into their business strategies and supply chain processes.

This is to ensure that their operations are sustainable and have a positive impact on people and the planet.

The mid-market entities are in the perfect position to operate sustainably and make a positive contribution towards the ESG agenda as they can manage their impact upon it.

 

The mid-market entities are in the perfect position to operate sustainably and make a positive contribution towards the ESG agenda as they can manage their impact upon it. Yugen Pillay, Head of ESG and Business Consulting

 

This is underpinned by their resilience and confident outlook for a prosperous business and investment performance in the long term. According to the IBR data survey data, 40% of mid-market businesses have developed working plans for key areas such as supply chain, employees, environment, and community, while 32% have developed an ESG or sustainability strategy.

However, there is still scope for mid-market businesses to integrate ESG and SDGs in areas such as:

  • Investing in renewable energy and implementing energy-efficient practices to reduce their carbon footprint.
  • Developing sustainable products and services that align with the SDGs.
  • Implementing sustainable procurement practices and working with suppliers to improve their environmental and social performance.
  • Communicating transparently about their ESG performance and progress towards the SDGs.
  • Engaging with stakeholders and communities to understand and address their concerns and expectations.
  • Incorporating sustainability into their risk management and reporting processes.
  • Investing in training and awareness within their entities
  • Implementing suitable frameworks for reporting
  • Implementing the UN’s SDG standards to ensure intent to action

 

 

SNG Grant Thornton ESG team has the expertise in providing ESG Advisory services to assist businesses to comply with the SDG impact standards.

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) | SNG Grant Thornton

 

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