How to Communicate Your ESG-Strategy

Having an ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) framework is now a core strategic priority for businesses. Customers, suppliers, investors and industry regulators are increasingly favouring companies with strong ESG credentials, with a particular focus on environmental sustainability. Guidance and regulations, including corporate sustainability reporting and net zero targets continue to be developed in the UK and internationally to drive action and accountability.

Transparency and communication is critical for companies who wish to clearly convey their environmental impact and corporate social responsibility goals to stakeholders. Key areas to address when communicating your policies include:

1. Authenticity

To avoid greenwashing by making unsubstantiated or misleading claims, you should align your sustainability strategies with recognised ESG frameworks and standards. Set measurable goals and implement regular progress reporting on issues including carbon reduction, resource efficiency, and renewable energy adoption to genuinely convey your environmental efforts.

2. Be visible

Share examples to ensure your ESG efforts are recognised. Marketing, PR, and digital storytelling help to shape public perception. Use case studies, press releases, reports, social media, videos, podcasts and public commitments to help tell your story. Several vertical sector award schemes, like the European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards, include an environmental or ESG related category.  Emphasise the role of innovation, impact and transparency and include key data when sharing your successes.

3. Make your ESG proposition central to your corporate purpose

Make sure you have a clearly defined ESG proposition, values, goals and objectives. Ensure you have a specific team, leaders and champions within the company who are driving your ESG-policy forward. Communicate this company-wide, so everyone shares the vision and plays their part in making action points happen. Set SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-based) targets and ongoing reporting and monitoring controls.

4. Demonstrate the business case

Solutions that protect the environment makes good business practice, with sustainability and profitability going hand-in-hand. Businesses that prioritise environmental sustainability within their ESG strategies often see better long-term financial performance, driving profitability through cost savings, innovation, and improved reputation. Companies that effectively communicate their environmental efforts can gain a competitive edge in their industry.

Strong ESG-practices, communicated effectively, can also help companies attract and retain talent. Today’s workforce, especially younger generations, are drawn to companies with meaningful ESG commitments, particularly in sustainability.

5. Don’t stand still

Work in close partnership with suppliers, customers, and industry colleagues to shape environmental best practice. Continue to research and develop ways for eco-friendly innovation and share your progress.

Caring about the future of our world communicates a positive message about your brand. If you would like support sharing your ESG strategy, please get in touch.