In recent years, ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) has stood out as a crucial factor in the creation of value, both for consumers and investors. 

A recent study conducted by EY revealed that ESG affects 99% of investment decisions in Brazil. 

In a scenario where ESG dimensions have become more than a need in the global corporate world, committees play a leadership role in determining the strategic decisions of businesses. 

As the ESG movement continues to gain momentum around the world, we must be aware of the trends and observations that will deserve our attention in the coming years: 

1. Use of cloud technology for procurement 

The use of cloud technology (cloud computing) to manage procurement processes has proven to be an effective strategy. 

It promotes transparent business relationships, improves regulatory compliance and decreases energy consumption, by eliminating the need for costly IT infrastructures. 

The transition to the cloud is aligned with sustainability principles, making it a smart choice for those businesses committed to ESG. 

In addition to the already mentioned benefits, the use of cloud technology offers also significant benefits in terms of agility and efficiency. 

By moving to the cloud, businesses can scale resources in a quick and flexible way, thus adapting to fluctuations in procurement demand. 

This results in more agile and effective processes, allowing organizations to react more efficiently to changes in the market and customer needs. 

2. Ongoing assessment of ESG risks

The global scenario is plenty of uncertainties, from inflation and cost of living to political instability and climate changes. 

ESG committees play a key role also in a constant monitoring of the impact of company’s operations on environmental, social and governance issues. 

This involves collecting data and analyzing key performance indicators (KPIs) related to issues such as carbon emission decrease, workplace diversity and inclusion, and corporate governance practices. 

ESG impact monitoring allows each company to evaluate its progress towards sustainable goals and to identify areas that must be improved. 

All of such factors can affect business and investments significantly. Therefore, a continuous evaluation of risks associated with these elements is vital. 

ESG committees must be prepared to deal with turbulence and develop risk mitigation strategies. 

3. Employee well-being and organizational culture

The importance of employee well-being has gained prominence in recent years. 

Addressing communication issues, listening to employees’ needs and promoting their physical and mental health, along with social well-being, are measures that can strengthen workforce cohesion. 

Businesses that prioritize employee well-being often experience greater team satisfaction and increased productivity. 

Focusing on employee well-being not only strengthens team cohesion, but also contributes to the development of a positive organizational culture. 

Businesses that care about the well-being of their employees usually promote values such as empathy, respect, inclusion and mutual support. 

The result is a healthier work environment, where employees feel valued and encouraged to contribute with their ideas and efforts, in a constructive way. 

4. Sustainable supply chain management

Supply chain resilience is critical to business success, particularly in a world where risks are multifaceted. 

ESG committees must focus their efforts on risk reduction, review of integrative policies and higher diversification in the supplier base. 

Sustainability must be integrated into the process, making the supply chain more resilient and committed. 

Another fundamental aspect of supply chain management related to ESG committees is traceability and transparency. 

To ensure compliance with ESG principles, businesses must be able to track the origin of their products and raw materials, as well as the working conditions and environmental practices of their suppliers. 

The deployment of transparent tracking and reporting systems helps to identify and mitigate risks associated with those suppliers who do not follow ethical and sustainable standards. 

5. Sharing of ESG principles with the corporate market

The sharing of new corporate rules, on a yearly basis, about governance, compliance, environment and society is becoming a legal requirement, due to growing market demand. 

Businesses that adopt comprehensive approaches to sustainability, and establish effective communication with global financial markets, are even better positioned to attract ESG-conscious investors and achieve long term sustainable performance. 

The effective sharing of ESG information not only attracts ESG-conscious investors, but can also open doors for access to sustainable capital. 

Many funds and institutional investors are incorporating ESG criteria in their investment decisions and allocating capital to businesses that show a solid commitment to such principles. 

Therefore, businesses that excel in the sharing of ESG can access more favorable financing and reduced capital costs. 

In short, ESG is a trend that is here to stay and keeps on shaping the world of investments and business. 

As we approach 2024, those businesses that will adapt and respond to these trends will be in a stronger position to thrive, in an increasingly ESG-driven investment scenario. 

See you next time!😉