Keys to Corporate Sustainability: Reflections from an ESG Session

In the current context, companies face the challenge of balancing their economic objectives with environmental and social responsibility. Recently, Saltor Talent had the privilege of participating in the organization and moderation of a session at the EADA Business School, dedicated to discussing best practices and strategies in the field of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance). We could count with the presence of different expert professionals representing different sectors of activity (mass consumption/beverages, pharma and traveltech).

The aim of this short article is to share some key reflections and messages that emerged throughout the discussion.

Business Impact: Measurement and Transformation

Every business activity has an impact, whether positive or negative. The key is to recognize this reality and commit to measuring that impact. Measurement is the first step in managing and eventually transforming negative effects into positive ones. Tools and methodologies such as sustainability reporting and environmental audits are critical for this purpose. By quantifying the impact, companies can identify critical areas for improvement and develop specific strategies to address these challenges.

Life Cycle Assessment: Identifying Impacts

A great starting point for any company that wants to improve its sustainability is to conduct a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), this approach allows organizations to assess the environmental impact of their products and processes from start to finish. LCA helps identify where the greatest impacts occur across the value chain, whether in raw material extraction, manufacturing, transportation, or product use and disposal. With this information, companies can focus their efforts on critical areas, implementing improvements that significantly reduce their environmental footprint.

Systemic Vision: Integration and Collaboration

Sustainability cannot be achieved in isolation. Companies need to take a systemic view, recognizing their role within a broader ecosystem. This involves understanding how a company’s operations affect and are affected by other actors in the value chain, including suppliers, customers, and local communities. Collaborating with these stakeholders is essential to promote sustainable practices throughout the chain. Integrating sustainability policies and practices at every stage of the business ensures that all participants are aligned towards a common sustainability goal.

Management Commitment & Team Building

Progress on ESG requires a strong commitment from senior management. Without the support and involvement of business leaders, any sustainability effort is doomed to failure. It is critical that management not only supports ESG initiatives, but also actively participates in their implementation. In addition, building internal teams is crucial. Employees must be trained and aligned with the company’s sustainability goals. Training and awareness-raising programs help create an organizational culture where sustainability becomes a shared priority.

Action and Communication: A Transparency-Based Approach

One of the most powerful messages of the session was the importance of acting before communicating. Companies should focus first on implementing sustainable changes and improvements. Only then, and once tangible results have been achieved, should they communicate these advances. Transparency and authenticity are essential in this process. Communicating without acting can damage the credibility and reputation of the company. Authentic and verifiable success stories, based on concrete actions, strengthen stakeholder trust and engagement.

In conclusion the transition to sustainable business practices is a complex challenge, but full of opportunities, and one of the keys to the survival of many companies looking to the future. 

At present, and undoubtedly for the immediate future, the ability to incorporate sustainability into the strategic agendas of each department has ceased to be an option and has become a managerial obligation. 

Only with genuine commitment and shared effort between citizens, consumers, employees, managers, entrepreneurs and politicians, will we be able to create a truly sustainable and equitable future for all.

Álvaro Cárcel, Partner.