We hear a lot about the environmental and social aspects of ESG, but what about governance? Many companies have already implemented some ESG policies, but there may still be an overwhelming amount of work to be done. Today, host Armand Capisciolto, BDO's National Accounting Standards Partner and leader of accounting advisory services, is joined by current co-host and future host of the Accounting for the Future podcast, Anne-Marie Henson, BDO partner. Together they welcome Pierre Taillefer, BDO Canada's Sustainability Leader. He is responsible both for moving BDO Canada's internal ESG strategy forward as well as leading BDO's sustainability service offerings and has joined the podcast for a discussion about the ESG journey, what companies are already getting right, and how to advance their progress in the ESG journey.
What You'll Hear In This Episode:
[3:06] Defining the governance and reporting element of ESG.
[6:30] Most organizations have already started implementing some ESG policies.
[9:45] A look at the possibility of mandatory sustainability reporting.
[13:00] Integrating ESG factors into operational decisions.
[15:08] Considerations addressing governance and reporting quality data.
[21:32] Advice to boards when implementing ESG policies.
[25:30] Pierre's advice for getting started with ESG engagement.
Mentioned:
Quotes:
"Take away the regulatory requirements, and ESG is reviewing how you operate as an organization and implementing ESG factors to be better off as an entity."
"When we are talking to clients about ESG, the starting point is to talk about what they already do."
"You can't think of these things in isolation. You have to be thinking about sustainability, reporting, and financial reporting as a package."
"Start with small pieces, but have a full picture of where you eventually want to go."
