A recent survey on UK business by Better Society has revealed that nearly two-thirds (59 per cent) believe there is no need to compromise profitability, or would do so if need be, to meet higher ESG standards.

The research, carried out by Better Society, Opinium and Citigate Dewe Rogerson challenges the view that ESG is somehow damaging to business, and indeed the response is not only broadly positive within the business community, but also indicates that ESG commitment is seen as important for the long-term profitability of operations by half of those with a view (35 per cent of the total universe).

This relatively high level of ‘not knowns’ indicates a lack of communication that appears to be a major issue, with UK companies remarkably reticent when it comes to highlighting their efforts with regards to ESG. The majority of employees (53 per cent) say their companies do not publicise their ESG activities at all, and of those that do (only 21 per cent) the most popular platform is internal communications. Other methods include the annual company report (17 per cent); press releases (11 per cent); sponsorship (10 per cent); and advertising (9 per cent).

On a social note, only 9 per cent of employees are aware of any collaboration with an external partner such as a charity or community group in any meaningful way.

Interestingly, 27 per cent of respondents say they have no idea whether their company is planning to improve its approach to ESG issues.

Despite this communication gap, awareness of ESG issues is growing, with around two in five (38 per cent) of UK workers believing their company’s consideration of ESG issues has risen over the last five years, with only 2 per cent believe these concerns have reduced.

The research surveyed a panel of respondents comprising owners, chief executives and directors as well as other staff based on online interviews with 500 UK adults from 12 January to 27 April 2017. 57 per cent of respondents were in senior managerial positions or above.

Full report available here.

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