Walking on ESG Eggshells: Focus on 'Safe' Social Issues and Their Economic Value
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Consumer Attitudes About Sustainability

Walking on ESG Eggshells: Focus on 'Safe' Social Issues and Their Economic Value

13 November 2023 / Article

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Corporate action on social issues has contributed to the recent emergence of a backlash against environmental, social & governance programs. Whether and how to respond to social issues presents a difficult challenge for companies, especially in a highly divided and politicized atmosphere. Companies need to prepare for the inevitable negative reaction from those who disagree and the disappointment of those who wish the company had done more.

  • Part 1: Communicate Sustainability in Near-Term Goals, Economic Gains, and Simple Words
  • Part 2: Walking on ESG Eggshells: Focus on 'Safe' Social Issues and Their Economic Value

Corporate action on social issues has contributed to the recent emergence of a backlash against environmental, social & governance programs. Whether and how to respond to social issues presents a difficult challenge for companies, especially in a highly divided and politicized atmosphere. Companies need to prepare for the inevitable negative reaction from those who disagree and the disappointment of those who wish the company had done more.

  • Part 1: Communicate Sustainability in Near-Term Goals, Economic Gains, and Simple Words
  • Part 2: Walking on ESG Eggshells: Focus on 'Safe' Social Issues and Their Economic Value

Author

Denise Dahlhoff, PhD

Denise Dahlhoff, PhD Denise Dahlhoff, PhD

Director, Marketing & Communications Research
The Conference Board

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