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Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG)

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) are a set of principles that assist a firm in becoming sustainable and socially responsible.

 

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What is ESG?

ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. It is a term used to refer to the three central factors in measuring the sustainability and societal impact of an investment in a company or business. It reports on a range of areas from environmental impact, employment practices, and accounting practices. ESG has become an increasingly important consideration for investors looking to align their investments with their values.

  • Environmental focuses on how companies address environmental issues, such as carbon emissions, energy efficiency and waste management.
  • Social examines how businesses manage relationships with employees, suppliers, customers and the communities they serve.
  • Governance evaluates corporate leadership, internal controls, transparency and ethical practices.

Embracing ESG principles goes beyond meeting compliance requirements, it’s about building a business that thrives in a changing world while making a positive impact.

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How can ESG help Accountants?

Adopting an ESG framework provides numerous benefits for accountancy businesses, their clients and stakeholders.

A strong ESG strategy positions businesses as leaders in innovation and responsibility, appealing to modern markets while driving long-term resilience.

 

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Attracting and retaining clients

ESG has become an important consideration for many companies and organisations. Offering expertise in this area can be a competitive advantage.

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Growing revenue streams

The demand for ESG services is increasing as more companies and organisations recognise the importance of integrating sustainability into their operations and reporting.

 

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Enhancing firm reputation

Being seen as a leader in ESG can enhance your reputation and brand among clients, peers, and the wider community. This can lead to increased visibility and growth opportunities.

 

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Steamline processes

Integrating ESG into the running of your practice can help with operational efficiency. Initiatives such as energy efficiency and waste reduction can save costs.

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Regulatory requirements

Governments and industry bodies are introducing ESG-related regulations to drive responsible business practices and improve transparency in reporting.

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Futureproofing

ESG practices prepare businesses to navigate future challenges and evolving regulatory landscapes. A strong ESG commitment also appeals to top talent seeking purposeful careers.

ESG Products

NEW

Sustainability Assurance Manual (International)

Our Manual Package provides programmes, documents, and guidance for assurance engagements under ISSA 5000 and IESSA (including International Independence Standards).

 

 

Coming Soon

Sustainability Assurance Manual (EU/ROI)

Our Sustainability Assurance Manual provides you with all the programmes, documents and guidance needed to undertake a sustainability assurance engagement

 

Coming Soon

Sustainability Assurance Manual (UK)

Our Sustainability Assurance Manual provides you with all the programmes, documents and guidance needed to undertake a sustainability assurance engagement

 

Training

Getting Started with ESG

In this one-hour webinar, you will gain an introductory understanding of ESG from an accounting and tax perspective in the UK.

 

 

Training

Sustainability Reporting - An Update

Gain a better understand the implications of recent changes in ESG legislation and practices from an accounting and assurance perspective in the UK.

 

 

Training

ESG - An Introduction to Tax Issues

An overview of the main UK tax legislation and reporting requirements from an Environmental, Social and Governance perspective.

 

 

Training

Masterclass - The E (Environment) in ESG

Join our Mercia Masterclass on the ‘E’ in ESG. Gain insights on regulations, reporting standards, IFRS, FRS102, and key ESG accounting case studies.

 

 

Training

Masterclass - The S (Social) in ESG

Join our Mercia Masterclass on the ‘S’ in ESG. Explore key social factors, including wellbeing, culture, supply chains, social reporting, CICs, and BCorp certification, and their links to environmental impact.

 

 

Training

Masterclass - The G (Goverance) in ESG

Join our Mercia Masterclass on the ‘G’ in ESG. Learn how to integrate ESG into governance, support boards in understanding key issues, and develop accountability within organisations.

 

 

Training

Masterclass - Fireside Chat on ESG

Join our Mercia Masterclass Fireside Chat on ESG. Explore why ESG matters for all businesses, not just multinationals, and gain practical insights and solutions in this rapidly evolving area.

 

Training

Bespoke ESG Training

JOur team of ESG experts can tailor a session to meet your firms requirements, our in-house training can be booked as a one-off course or a structured programme of courses to fit your needs.

 

 

Our ESG Experts

Ross Haydock
Technical Consultant
Ross is one of Mercia's technical consultants, he performs file reviews and has contributed extensively towards the creation of sustainability manuals and methodologies. He has over 20 years of experience in auditing and a passion for sustainability assurance, holding a Fundamentals of Sustainability Accounting (SASB Level II) qualification. Follow Ross on LinkedIn for the latest updates and insights into the dynamic world of ESG.
Ross Haydock
Jo Gregory
A&A and Compliance Senior Manager
Jo Gregory
Gemma Archer
A&A and Compliance Senior Manager
Gemma Archer
Melinda Maupeu
Technical Consultant
Melinda Maupeu

 

Related ESG Articles

 

Governance

FRC recommendations for the sustainability assurance market

FRC has recently conducted an in-depth market study on sustainability reporting and assurance, this article reviews the key findings

 

 

 

Governance

Signed, Sealed, Delivered - ISSA 5000 Receives Certification

Understand how IAASB approval of ISSA 5000 impacts global practitioners who will provide assurance services in this growing market.

 

 

 

Governance

FRC publishes findings on the UK sustainability assurance market

The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has recently published initial feedback on its market study into assurance of sustainability reporting to give insight on this market in the UK.

Governance

The introduction of ISSA 5000

The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) announced the approval of International Standard on Sustainability Assurance 5000 (ISSA 5000) on 20 September.

Governance

Effect of EU sustainability rules on UK companies - be prepared

Work on new sustainability legislation and potential reporting requirements for the UK can now begin, following the appointment of Sustainability Technical Advisory committee Chair.

Our Approach to ESG

At Mercia, ESG is embedded in everything we do. Our commitment to sustainability, social equity and ethical governance drives our decision-making and reflects our values as an organisation.

Explore how Mercia & Wilmington Plc's approach to ESG is making a difference and helping to build a better tomorrow.