October 2, 2024 | Pretoria
Fresh Solutions Pretoria
Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)
2 October 2024
09h00 – 13h30 (SAST)
Location to be determined
Fresh Solutions Events are held three times a year at different venues across South Fresh Solutions Events are held three times a year at different venues across South Africa. These are smaller IFPA events, which are limited to 60 people and are free for members. Fresh Solutions offers a chance to gain insights, share knowledge, and expand professional networks. From 09h30 to 13h30, delegates will engage in thought-provoking discussions and presentations that address pertinent challenges and emerging trends within the industry, followed by lunch.
Sponsorships are available for each event. Please contact Jennifer Booth at Marketingsa@freshproduce.com for more information.
We look forward to welcoming you at our next Fresh Solutions event!
What is ESG?
Environmental, Social and Governance or ESG is a set of criteria used by investors, businesses, and stakeholders to evaluate a company's operations and its impact on society and the environment. Each component of ESG represents a different aspect of a company's performance.
Environmental:
This aspect focuses on a company's impact on the environment. It includes factors such as carbon emissions, resource usage, waste management, pollution, and climate change adaptation measures.
Social:
The social component deals with how a company manages its relationships with employees, suppliers, customers, and communities. It encompasses labour practices, employee diversity and inclusion, human rights, product safety, community engagement, and philanthropy.
Governance:
Governance refers to the structures and processes that guide a company's decision-making and how it is managed. It includes issues such as board diversity, executive compensation, shareholder rights, transparency, and anti-corruption policies.
Why is ESG important?
Risk Management:
By considering ESG factors, investors can better assess the long-term risks and opportunities associated with an investment. Companies with strong ESG practices are often better positioned to navigate environmental and social challenges, reducing the risk of financial losses.
Financial Performance:
Research has shown a correlation between strong ESG performance and financial outperformance over the long term. Companies that prioritise sustainability and responsible governance are often more resilient and better equipped to create long-term value for shareholders.
Reputation and Brand Value:
Consumers, employees, and other stakeholders are increasingly demanding that companies operate responsibly and ethically. Positive ESG performance can enhance a company's reputation, attract top talent, and strengthen brand loyalty.
Regulatory Compliance:
As governments around the world enact stricter environmental and social regulations, companies that fail to integrate ESG considerations into their operations may face legal and financial consequences.
Our IFPA members need to know about ESG because it directly impacts their investments, businesses, and communities. By understanding and incorporating ESG principles into their decision-making processes, they can mitigate risks, seize opportunities, and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future. Additionally, being knowledgeable about ESG allows our members to align their values with their investments and support companies that are committed to making a positive impact on society and the environment.