Environmental, Social & Corporate Governance expertise
At its core, Environmental, Social & Corporate Governance (ESG) is recognising the social, environmental and economic impact of certain practices and working to lessen the impacts wherever possible. It is also about mechanisms to encourage diversity, innovation, meritocracy and long-term planning.
Sustainability has been described as an “emerging megatrend”. Consumers are increasingly aware of the social, environmental and political impact of their purchasing decisions and increasingly it matters whether an organisation had developed, or taken steps to develop, more sustainable practices and products. Investors as well as business partners are screening companies on their environmental impact, their approach to governance and on how they manage their relationship with society including how and with whom they do business. Employees are looking for socially responsible employers, wanting the employer to match their values. The pressure on all industries to consider their social and environmental impacts while achieving their business goals is therefore increasing. As is the recognition by more and more organisations that sustainable development is key to successful, integrated and productive practices.
The regulatory landscape is evolving quickly. The New Zealand Government recently has signalled its intention to make climate-related financial disclosures mandatory for some organisations. Regulation brings liability and reputational risk for organisation and directors but effectively managed it protects business value and can be transformed into a competitive advantage.
Sustainability is important to Stace Hammond too. For us it is about incorporating a number of changes e.g. developing a sustainability policy, moving to a paperless office, opting for video conferences to reduce fuel emissions, adopting a more rigorous recycling program, and increasing diversity in our staff. It is also about advising our clients on the appropriate policies and procedures and ensure they are implemented and meet stakeholders’ expectations.
Our experts can assist your business with sustainability obligations and objectives in the following areas:
- ESG advice & policy development
- Climate change law & regulatory compliance (e.g. mandatory climate-related financial disclosures, Climate Change Response Act, Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment Act and related regulations)
- Energy supply & renewable energy
- Sustainable Finance
- Impact investment
- Corporate Governance
- Employment
- Litigation and Dispute Resolution
- Community engagement
