Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) is a recognised global standard for assessing how responsibly and sustainably an organisation operates. It’s a way for investors, regulators, employees, and customers to understand a company’s impact on the environment, its treatment of people, and the transparency of its decision-making.
At The GreenPlan, we have developed a practical ESG framework designed specifically for Irish businesses. Our approach aligns with international ESG principles but focuses on measurable, achievable actions that deliver results in the real world.
What is ESG in Simple Words?
In simple terms, ESG looks at:
- Environmental – how your business affects the planet.
- Social – how your business treats people.
- Governance – how your business is run.
It’s more than pledging to be “green” or “ethical.” ESG uses measurable criteria and reporting standards so stakeholders can see proof of a company’s performance.
For example, reducing carbon emissions, paying fair wages, having a diverse board, and disclosing risks are all ESG considerations. The GreenPlan ESG Framework helps businesses in Ireland measure and improve in each of these areas.
What Do the ESG Terms Mean?
1. Environmental
This focuses on a company’s impact on the natural world. Examples include:
- Cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
- Using renewable energy.
- Reducing waste and switching to sustainable packaging.
- Protecting biodiversity and natural resources.
In Ireland, this could mean transitioning delivery fleets to electric vehicles, sourcing materials locally, or switching to low-energy lighting systems. The GreenPlan supports companies in setting clear environmental goals and tracking progress with Actual Actions.
2. Social
This examines how an organisation manages relationships with employees, suppliers, customers, and communities. Key areas include:
- Diversity, equality, and inclusion.
- Fair pay and safe working conditions.
- Protecting customer data.
- Supporting community projects.
For example, an Irish food producer might implement fair trade sourcing policies while offering staff mental health support, both core to The GreenPlan framework’s Social pillar.
3. Governance
Governance covers leadership, transparency, and accountability, such as:
- Board diversity and independence.
- Linking executive pay to ESG performance.
- Clear shareholder rights.
- Anti-bribery and ethical business practices.
Our framework ensures governance isn’t just a checklist, it’s embedded in decision-making and company culture.
What Are the 4 Pillars of ESG?
Traditionally, ESG is defined by three pillars, but some approaches extend it to four by separating Corporate Responsibility from Governance. In that model, the pillars are:
- Environmental – climate action, resource use, pollution control.
- Social – human rights, community impact, diversity.
- Governance – corporate ethics, transparency, compliance.
- Corporate Responsibility / Sustainability – a long-term commitment to ethical, sustainable business, often linked to UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The GreenPlan incorporates all four into its ESG framework, ensuring a complete, measurable approach.
Why is ESG Controversial?
Although ESG has many benefits, it’s sometimes criticised because:
- Greenwashing – Companies may overstate sustainability efforts to appear compliant.
- Lack of Standardisation – ESG scores can vary due to different measurement methods.
- Political Pushback – In some markets, ESG investing is viewed as political rather than practical.
In Ireland, ESG is widely seen as positive, but transparency is key. That’s why The GreenPlan framework is built on verifiable reporting and independent certification to avoid reputational risks.
What Are the Top 3 ESG Issues?
Across industries, the most common ESG challenges are:
- Climate Change and Carbon Emissions – Meeting Ireland’s climate targets requires measurable reductions.
- Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion – Ensuring fair opportunities across the workforce and supply chains.
- Transparency and Accountability – Providing credible, consistent ESG reporting.
The GreenPlan addresses each by setting clear metrics and helping businesses embed them into everyday operations.
Why ESG Matters for Irish Businesses
Adopting ESG through The GreenPlan framework can:
- Improve access to funding – Investors increasingly favour ESG-compliant companies.
- Strengthen customer loyalty – Consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products and services.
- Attract and retain talent – Employees prefer organisations with strong values.
- Reduce operational risks – By ensuring compliance with EU rules such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR).
How to Get Started with ESG Using The GreenPlan
- Assess your current position – Identify environmental, social, and governance gaps.
- Set achievable, measurable goals – for example, cutting energy use by 15% in two years.
- Follow a recognised framework – The GreenPlan aligns with GRI, SASB, and TCFD standards.
- Engage stakeholders – Employees, customers, and suppliers should be part of the journey.
- Track and report progress – Regular, transparent updates build trust.
The GreenPlan – ESG Made Practical
At The GreenPlan, we believe ESG should be more than a compliance exercise. Our framework turns sustainability principles into a clear, step-by-step plan for Irish businesses. By combining global ESG standards with local expertise, we help organisations of all sizes make measurable improvements, gain investor confidence, and create a positive impact.
Whether you’re an SME looking to start your first sustainability report or a larger organisation aiming for CSRD compliance, The GreenPlan gives you the tools, training, and certification to succeed.
Final Word
ESG is not just about meeting regulations, it’s about building a resilient business that benefits society and the planet. With The GreenPlan ESG framework, Irish companies can take meaningful action, prove their commitment, and thrive in a sustainable economy.
