E, S & G - AND WHAT'S BEHIND THEM

The world is in crisis mode. The pandemic was followed by the Russian invasion of Ukraine with all its global consequences for people and the economy - and the pandemic is far from over. What is often forgotten is what can be seen as a global crisis before and after: the climate crisis. According to unanimous expert opinion, massive upheavals and adjustments to completely new framework conditions are to be expected, on a scale that many people may still be suppressing. The construction and real estate industry, which according to Eurostat is responsible for up to 40 percent of global CO2 emissions, is the focus of attention. Sustainable measures are required and the defining issue of the future, which should actually be one of the present, is ESG. 

Three letters for a new world
The abbreviation ESG symbolises an orientation towards the dimensions environment, social and responsible corporate governance. The "E" for environment stands for environmental pollution or hazards, greenhouse gas emissions or energy efficiency issues, for example. It is about the interaction between business and nature. Companies are able to have both a positive and a negative impact on climate, resources, water and biodiversity through their products, services and value chains. The most essential criteria are the efficient and responsible use of limited resources, sustainable energy management, the disposal of raw materials and wastewater, and overall the reduction of the ecological footprint. Social ("S") includes aspects such as occupational safety and employee protection, diversity or social commitment. The added value that the company brings to society is taken into account. This includes ethical aspects such as respect for human rights and human dignity or the social impact of products and services on society. Finally, governance ("G") is understood as sustainable corporate management that promotes internal management and control processes and values in order to prevent risks. Working conditions, anti-corruption measures, tax honesty or the fight against anti-competitive practices are considered as partly overlapping criteria with the S for Social.