When I speak with business leaders about corporate sustainability, the conversations now inevitably turn to the “anti-ESG” movement — a loosely defined collection of beliefs and actions aimed at fighting a perceived shift towards “woke” or progressive ideas in society and business.
ESG Is Under Attack. How Should Your Company Respond?
A framework to help you understand the backlash and stay true to your values.
December 22, 2023, Updated December 22, 2023
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Summary.
The so-called “anti-ESG” movement — a loosely defined collection of beliefs and actions aimed at fighting a perceived shift towards “woke” or progressive ideas in society and business — is top of mind for CEOs and other senior executives. But in order to navigate this terrain, leaders need to better understand exactly how ESG or sustainability are being used as a critique, and whether those doing the critiquing are doing so in good faith. The author has created a 2×2 to help executives identify exactly who they’re dealing with, what argument they’re making, and how to effectively respond.