ESG Implementation Guide: Why It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint
In recent years, supply chain demands have evolved, and investors are increasingly seeking partners who are not only profitable but also committed to driving broader positive impact. This shift aligns with the growing introduction of legislation compelling businesses to act - for example, NHS suppliers are now required to achieve Net Zero by 2030.
For both growing and established businesses, the pressure is mounting. And while many recognise the need for action, knowing where to begin can be a challenge in itself. This is where ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) offers a solution: a step-by-step strategy that considers unique business priorities and delivers long-term impact.
ESG is all about understanding your current position as a business and identifying opportunities for improvement, across a range of environmental, social and governance categories. Overall, it aims to provide a roadmap to help you proactively implement measures into your organisational strategy to achieve long-term sustainability.
There’s no denying that ESG has been a topic of controversy, with critics arguing it’s overly complex and difficult to implement. However, every organisation faces unique priorities, and the key to a successful ESG strategy lies in taking the time to make small, consistent improvements that build towards lasting impact.
Implementing long-lasting change takes time and isn’t going to happen overnight. In fact, it can take a few years to embed ESG into a company’s culture and operations, with there often being continuous improvements to make. However, that being said, it’s not about perfection either; it’s better to start small and build this up overtime, than not get started at all.
If you’re feeling unsure on how to get started, Susanna Jackson (MISEP CEnv), Sustainability Manager & Lead Consultant at Beyondly, has provided some top tips to help your business take the first step towards developing an impactful ESG strategy:
1. Keep it simple! Don’t try to do everything all at once - focus initially on the areas most material to your business, important to your stakeholders, and within your control.
2. Get inspired! Talk to your colleagues, suppliers and customers to gain inspiration on what they’re already doing or would like to see.
3. Implement quick wins, then focus on the long term! There will be lots of actions that can be implemented quickly to set a foundation - start there and work upwards.
4. Collaborate! ESG doesn’t need to be a solo mission; in fact, it requires company wide input. Get a team of passionate individuals in your organisation together from a range of departments, to push forward your actions and engage the wider team in the ESG strategy.
Beyondly are here to support you on your journey, with ESG consultants available to help you achieve long-term sustainability and meaningful impact. Our comprehensive service will determine the areas most material to your business and supply chain, identify gaps and opportunities, and provide you with a short-, medium- and long-term plan to help you maintain progress and ensure your ESG journey has clear direction. Beyondly can then work closely with your business throughout implementation.
For more information on how we can help, you can read more about our complete ESG consultancy service here.
