The ESG and Sustainability Deskbook for Business:
A Guide to Policy, Regulation, and Practice
By Kristyn Noeth
The interest in sustainability and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) from stakeholders across all sectors is growing and will continue to do so as we are in the most pivotal decade for meeting the global goals on climate change and sustainable development. This book is a compendium of the international agreements, regulatory advancements, and current practicum to inform a 360-degree viewpoint of the organizations, frameworks, and stakeholders that shape the evolving landscape.
Written in a straightforward and conversational tone, you’ll embark on a knowledge journey on the progression of ESG and sustainability and how it directly shapes and informs current practice. It provides insights, discussion, and topical briefings as a side-by-side reader to accompany the rise of ESG and sustainability in business and the markets. The flow of information and reader education begins with the origins of sustainability in international treaties and policy. It then moves on to theadvent and differentiation of ESG, sustainability, and social responsibility; provides substantive issue briefings on the key “E,” “S,” and “G” factors. You’ll continue by walking through the global regulatory and standards paradigms; delve into ESG ratings and indices; and examine in-depth analysis of the respective roles of the corporation, the financial and investment sector, the international bodies, the business interest groups, the NGOs and third-party organizations, and the philanthropic community.
You’ll also see that corporations and investors are advancing ESG and sustainability strategies and programs at a record pace. What were once regarded as “nice-to-have” initiatives with voluntary reporting have moved into the regulated sphere with mandatory public disclosures and reporting requirements on greenhouse gas emissions, climate risk and transition planning, biodiversity and nature-related impacts, supply chain transparency, anti-bribery and corruption, human rights, human capital, and board diversity. The ESG and Sustainability Deskbook for Business threads the needle with best practices, case studies, and takeaways to illustrate the applications and to enhance understanding.
“Kristyn Noeth’s The ESG and Sustainability Deskbook for Business deconstructs ESG’s complexities into understandable and actionable guidance. As a comprehensive resource it’s vital for board of directors’ oversight, strategic business leaders implementing sustainability, and students seeking a 360-degree overview to accelerate global impact.”
—Susan Koehler
Founder, Growth4Future
“From comprehensive policies to regulatory structures, sustainability efforts are here to stay and The ESG and Sustainability Deskbook for Business primer on what ESG means, what it does, and why it matters is a must-read for investors, business leaders, academics, and practitioners alike. While details across jurisdictions and international borders may vary and change, especially as it relates to climate risk disclosures, the need for uniform, transparent, and data driven decision-making will not. The requirement to understand how we arrived at this moment in history, and where we go from here is critical, and for that, Kristyn has us covered.”
—Eric Fins, Vice President, Grove Climate Group
Former Deputy Staff Director, U.S. House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis
“With the forensic analysis of a lawyer, Kristyn leaves nothing on the table in her quest to make the world of ESG so much easier to navigate and know. Wherever you’re leading a business, whichever continent, country or virtual space you inhabit — this book can be your ‘go to’ guide. It’s easy to digest, thoughtful in tone … and, unlike power outlets, sockets and chargers, it’s universally relevant and compatible.”
—Olly Purnell
Founder and Managing Partner, Q5 Partners
“Today’s Founders need to be the creative architects of business, designing with intention, purpose and sustainability from the start. Their ability to design fluid and flexible systems for innovation as a daily practice is critical for building forever companies, and this book sets the context and the challenge to do just that."
—Rebekah Jefferis
Founder & Co-CEO, FNDR
“In an era of increased complexity, rapid change, and looming risks, The ESG and Sustainability Deskbook for Business from Kristyn Noeth is a necessary and grounding reading. It gives perspectives on how the sustainability and ESG principles took shape, and provides an exhaustive overview of regulations, principles, and terminology that surround the work of all professionals in the space. At such a critical moment for action, when companies accelerate not just pledges and commitments, but tangible action plans, maintaining a solid foothold in the facts and frameworks that led us here is essential.”
—Anna Andreis
EVP, Sustainability and Social impact, MSL Group
“In a fast-moving ESG landscape touching many areas, Kristyn Noeth’s The ESG and Sustainability Deskbook for Business provides the detailed yet practical guidance many senior executives are in need of as they plan out how best to approach their corporate ESG strategy. While the stakeholders are passionate and varied, and the enacted and proposed laws and regulations are not yet by any means settled, this book is high on facts and insights about the various ESG and sustainability issues businesses must consider as they plan ahead. As a lawyer, I recall the days where “The Bluebook” or “Black’s Law Dictionary” were always within arm’s reach; I envision this book to be a well ear-marked and highlighted reference kept close by for many an ESG professional and their senior executive colleagues looking to understand the myriad of issues associated with ESG and sustainability.”
—Charlie Broll
Chief Legal Officer, Tropicana Brands Group