Career building is crucial in today’s world. We all thrive for a better lifestyle generally by investing in business or any profession. Speaking of career and profession, have you ever heard about ESG courses? ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. Before we explore various ESG courses, we will understand why it plays a crucial role in today’s growing businesses. Do you think a business could grow if it only works for profit motive? Well! The answer to this is, that it might grow in the short run but cannot flourish in the long run. As, earning profit without promoting environmental health, social values, and governmental policies will not lead to a sustainable growth. For example, XYZ company is a paper manufacturer company that cuts trees to make paper, but if they continue to cut trees for paper production, they will destroy the wildlife and environment, and therefore in the long run they might have to discontinue their business as they will become a threat to the environment. Here, comes the role of ESG courses, these courses are designed to help professionals understand and implement sustainable business practices and principles into corporate and business strategies.
Importance of ESG
ESG meaning should not be confused with any social or charitable work. Let’s delve into the ESG factors in today’s business landscape:
- ESG practices help companies identify and manage risks related to environmental disasters, social controversies, and government failures.
- ESG performance promotes a company’s stock price and overall evaluation and directly impacts a company reputation.
- ESG reporting is becoming mandatory for publicly listed companies.
- ESG promotes sustainable practices leading to resource efficiency, cost savings, and improved operational performance,
- Many companies and regions are implementing ESG related regulations.
The above pointers make it obvious why a company needs professionals with ESG courses and certifications, and it is rightly said that when “why is clear then how is easy”. Further, we will enlighten you with the various ESG certifications that you might find interesting and that will promote your career growth.
ESG Courses and Certifications
In India, there are several ESG courses and certifications that professionals can consider. A few notable ones are mentioned below:
- Certified ESG Professional: Impact Leader – This program is offered by the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) in collaboration with HP India. To apply for this program, visit the IICA Program Page and fill out the online application form. After making the payment of the security deposit, Successful shortlisted applicants will be informed about their enrolment in the course. This six-month course includes eight self-paced learning modules delivered online, along with live interactive master classes conducted by renowned ESG professionals.
- CFA Institute Certification in ESG Investing – Professionals with this certification understand how ESG considerations impact investment outcomes. To enrol, you simply need to complete the online registration process which will allow you access to the online learning and study materials. The certificate equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to incorporate ESG considerations into the investment decision-making process and help you stay relevant in the rapidly evolving investment industry.
- CRISIL Certified ESG Risk Analyst — CRISIL’s ESG certification is an online self-paced course for professionals aiming to make a mark in the ESG space. The registration process is almost like above.
There are also other online certifications such as Riskpro’s Online Certification on ESG compliance and ESG Training conducted by Knowledge Academy and NSE (National ESG Course) bootcamp on ESG are also amongst the best ESG courses and certifications in India.
Advantages of pursuing ESG Courses and Certifications
- ESG professionals are in high demand across various industries. Having an ESG certification can open doors to roles such as ESG analyst, sustainability manager, or CSR Specialist.
- Pursuing ESG education provides an opportunity to work on meaningful projects that benefit society and the planet and adds to sustainable growth of a business.
- Various companies need ESG professionals to attract investors as investors increasingly consider ESG performance when allocating capital.
- Due to various governmental policies companies are required to comply with corporate social responsibility. For such reasons, companies are keen on hiring professionals with ESG certification.
- ESG certification adds on a value to your ongoing professional that helps you attract higher CTC and numerous growth opportunities.
Job profiles for ESG Professionals
It’s worth noting that the demand for ESG professionals has significantly increased, and companies are actively hiring for these roles. Organizations like Vedanta Group, Tata Steel, Welspun, etc are offering high-paying packages to attract top talent in the ESG domain. Various job profiles that are that ESG professionals could look in for are:
ESG Search Analyst – They analyse data companies environmental, social, and governance performance.
ESG Reporting Specialist – These professionals focus on transparent ESG reporting, that has an approx. package of 4 to 5 Lakhs,
ESG Auditors – ESG auditors verify and validate ESG data and disclosures.
ESG Consultants – ESG consultants advise companies on integrating ESG principles into their operations.
Other profiles may include CSR managers, ESG Policy Advocates, ESG Policymaker, ESG Associate, ESG developer etc.
The average ESG package can range between 4LPA to 15 LPA. ESG professionals are in high-demand and offer successful career opportunities. With growing demand in ESG, it is one of the viable career options in today’s professional world!
