Global LafargeHolcim Awards jury under way

Environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations are increasingly important decision-making criteria for organisations to measure their activities and report progress.  When an organisation chooses a strong ESG profile, it demonstrates strong commitment, both to codes of practice and corporate values, and to current and potential investors and lenders. It is a mark of distinction among competition, and supports an organisation’s attractiveness to employees and customers, presenting a key financial incentive. Whereas, a lower ESG profile or performance will increasingly suggest apathy towards the interests of wider society – whether intentional or not.  Accountability is a powerful element in purchasing decisions, particularly in complicated and lengthy supply chains. Consumers want to know the background of service providers. Both employees and customers expect companies to stand for something with a positive social impact. For example, more than six in ten younger consumers closely consider a company’s ethical values and authenticity before buying their products.

Raleigh, N.C., has become a pioneer of true sustainability. The city implemented a three-pronged strategy the focuses on: Environmental Stewardship, Social Equity and Economic Strength.  So the city is not just installing plug-in stations for hybrid and electric vehicles and reducing greenhouse gases, it’s making buildings more efficient, reclaiming and recycling materials and resources, creating green jobs and improving infrastructure, transportation, storm water management and parks and recreation. In fact, Raleigh was named the #2 Fasted-Growing Clean (Green) Economy Job Growth among 100 Largest Metros by The Brookings Institution.  It’s a three-level plan that’s made Raleigh the first LED City on the planet and given us a chance at a higher quality of life. And meeting planners can also benefit from these practices by their events and attendees utilizing these green infrastructures and features around Raleigh.