How CPAs can lead ESG initiatives
Canada’s net-zero emissions target, the establishment of an International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), recent social change movements, and the economic and social impacts of COVID-19 have increased the spotlight on ESG issues. Incorporating sustainable business practices and accounting for ESG factors has become an important focus area for organizations.
ESG opportunities for CPAs
Stakeholders want greater transparency on how organizations are managing their ESG risks and opportunities and integrating them into their business strategy. By virtue of their role as strategic advisors and stewards of value and data, CPAs are uniquely positioned to help companies navigate the complexity of these issues and build resilience. CPAs are well-equipped to connect the strategic and financial pieces when it comes to quantifying and disclosing ESG risks and opportunities. Roles will range from business planning, governance, reporting and assurance, to risk assessment and analysis.
Help create more sustainable enterprises
ESG factors play a key role in an organization’s ability to create short and long-term value for all stakeholders. Viewing your organization through an ESG lens can help identify the sustainability risks and opportunities that are material to your organization and help assess their impact on long-term business performance and value creation.
Move beyond your traditional role
Step beyond a traditional accounting role and into a position as a value-added leader, decision maker, and key influencer on ESG matters.
How?
Step 1:
Build your ESG IQ with our free foundational publications:
- State of Play: Study of social disclosures by Canadian public companies
- Getting to net zero: Role of CPAs in leading the change
- Implementing the Sustainable Development Goals for SMEs: Guideline and case study
- A4S essential guide to incentivizing action along the value chain
- The rise of the social pillar: An introduction to the 'S' in ESG
- Canada’s transition to net zero: Accelerating collaboration to meet 2050
- A4S essential guide to valuations and climate change
- GHG emissions management: Linking to strategy, risk and performance
- Integrating ESGs to create long-term value: Guideline and case study
- A4S essential guide to engaging the board and executive management
Step 2:
Access our large catalogue of sustainability-focused resources to further enhance your knowledge, including free publications and webinars on sustainability reporting, assurance, and governance.
Step 3:
Continue your journey with these professional development opportunities: