Four ways EHS professionals can maximize their impact.
A complex interplay of macroeconomic and geopolitical shifts has recently heightened the debate over the value of environmental, social and governance (ESG). But data affirms that managing ESG risk plays an important role in improving corporate performance, and a part of this has a positive impact on environment, health and safety (EHS) initiatives as well.
Indeed, a 2021 report from Morgan Stanley Capital International, which analyzed the ESG performance of over 6,000 companies, found that those with higher ESG ratings generally had lower environmental risks in some key EHS metrics, including carbon emissions, water usage and waste generation.
Given the direct correlation between ESG and EHS outcomes, safety professionals with a strong understanding of—and engagement with—ESG issues and standards can be more valuable to their organizations. As a result, these EHS professionals are better positioned to drive positive change.
This is easier said than done.
ESG standards and requirements are evolving. As sustainability becomes an increasingly important issue—and the debate over its importance continues to wage—ESG standards must adapt to reflect changing priorities, opportunities and risks.