ESG at zeb
As a credible partner for change, we need to play
an active role in the sustainable transformation.
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Sustainability as the
only way forward
At zeb, we use all our expertise and experience to ensure that financial services providers can fulfill their key role in the sustainable transformation of the economy and society to the best of their ability. After all, we see ourselves as partners for change – also when it comes to sustainability. We are aware that we can only give credible advice if we ourselves play an active role in the sustainable transformation.
This understanding guides our actions
Both in the smaller and the larger context, we are improving our sustainability – within our company as much as in client business. The path is not easy for any of us. Precisely for that reason, we want to make our individual contribution with every step we take. This is the only way we all can secure the future of our environment, society and economy together.
„As a partner to financial services providers, we are an active driver of the European green transformation, which means that we can move a powerful lever.“
Ulrich Hoyer, zeb Partner and member of the ESG Steering Board
FAQ
What is sustainability?
“Sustainability is the concept of a lasting forward-looking development of all economic, ecological and social aspects of human existence. These three pillars of sustainability are interdependent and require a balanced coordination.” (Translation of the sustainability definition by the Study Commission of the German Bundestag “Schutz des Menschen und der Umwelt” (Protection of Humanity and Environment), 1998)
This definition is based on the principle of intergenerational equity as formulated by the Brundtland Commission: “Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” (Brundtland Commission, 1987)
It is therefore about securing a future worth living and the well-being of multiple generations. ESG makes this process measurable and transparent, which helps companies and banks in their decision-making.
What is ESG?
The abbreviation ESG stands for Environmental, Social and Governance, which are the three key sustainability dimensions that companies focus on. They encompass environmental and climate protection, social responsibility, ethical corporate governance and compliance.
ESG serves as a framework for companies to align their activities and strategies in such a way that they are not only economically successful, but also sustainable in terms of environmental protection, social justice and good corporate governance. By aligning themselves in this way, companies can improve their sustainability performance as well as strengthen stakeholder trust, mitigate financial risks and have a positive impact on society and the environment in the long term.
ESG is also highly relevant for both customers and potential investors, as companies with a focus on ESG are considered to be more future-proof and less prone to risk.
ESG criteria for companies at a glance
ESG makes sustainable development measurable and helps companies and banks take decisions in the areas of environment, social affairs and corporate governance. These criteria can be used to evaluate the sustainability efforts of companies. Examples of such ESG criteria are:
Environmental | Social | Governance |
| Reduction of CO2 emissions | Good working conditions and fair pay | Transparent corporate governance |
| Sustainable resource management (water, energy) | Health protection and high safety standards for employees | Ethics and compliance programs |
| Waste and recycling management | Diversity and equal opportunities | Board and management structures |
| Environmental protection measures and policies | Respect for human rights | Compliance with tax regulations |
| Sustainable supply chains | Compliance with freedom of assembly and trade-union freedom | Concrete measures to prevent corruption, bribery and fraud |
| Use of renewable energies (solar, wind energy) | Social engagement | Clearly defined remuneration guidelines |
| Facility management | Further education for employees | Risk and reputation management |
What is an ESG rating or ESG score?
An ESG rating or ESG score is an assessment that measures the sustainability practices of companies, governments or funds based on ESG criteria. ESG assessments are a combination of risk analysis and performance measurement, the results of which are often presented in the form of ESG ratings, rankings or indexes with sector-specific weightings.
The review and evaluation of ESG criteria is carried out by specialized research and rating agencies. These agencies develop complex indicator systems to calculate reliable ESG scores from a wide range of data. This allows for a systematic comparison of the sustainability performance of different companies.
ESG ratings or ESG scores are primarily aimed at investors, who use the key figures to make sustainable investment decisions in order to improve their portfolios’ long-term performance. However, customers, suppliers and employees are also increasingly interested in companies acting in an ESG-compliant manner and communicating their sustainability efforts transparently.
