Exploring Managerial Attitudes to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG): A case study

Abstract

The adoption of the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) means that companies need to significantly expand their ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) reporting. It also dramatically increases the number of companies subject to EU sustainability reporting requirements. This thesis is made in cooperation with a company that is obligated to create and implement an ESG plan for the first time. It is the social dimension of the ESG which is the particular focus of this research. Semi-structured interviews with five managers at the company are used to study managers’ knowledge and attitudes towards ESG in preparation for the ESG plan. The study also examines what and how the company must communicate internally to implement the sustainability measures outlined in the ESG plan. The research finds that there are four main issues that must be considered for a successful implementation of the ESG plan. These issues relate to lack of knowledge among managers, fear of change, homogeneity among the staff and narrow understanding of ESG. They are framed and discussed here in the context of sustainability and management theories. This study provides suggestions for the company to overcome the issues that are raised.