Introduction to ESG

Introduction to ESG course outline

Participants in the Introduction to ESG micro-credential course will acquire practical knowledge and skills that are highly relevant and applicable to real-world scenarios in various industries. The course is designed to provide actionable insights essential for businesses seeking to integrate ESG practices.

This flexible course contains six online modules and is designed to fit seamlessly into your busy schedule. Each module has 3 topics. Each topic takes approximately 20mins. There is also additional reference materials should you be looking for a more immersive experience.

Module 1: ESG & Sustainable Business Importance

• Explore the origins and evolution of ESG, providing historical context for understanding sustainability and ESG practices.
• Understand the motivations behind sustainable business models and their value for long-term success and positive societal impact.
• Identify key drivers fuelling ESG demand to respond proactively to market trends and stakeholder expectations, becoming leaders in sustainability.

Module 2: Understanding ESG & Business Impacts

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of environmental aspects of ESG and their business impacts, promoting eco-friendly practices.
• Explore social dimensions of ESG and their ramifications on businesses, fostering inclusivity and positive community engagement.
• Grasp governance aspects of ESG and their influence on business operations, upholding ethical standards and transparency.

Module 3: Introduction to Natural Capital & Carbon

• Understand the significance of natural capital and its impact on businesses, influencing resource availability and sustainability practices.
• Explore the importance of biodiversity for businesses in maintaining ecosystem balance and responsible sourcing.
• Comprehend the role of carbon in businesses, including environmental improvement through carbon offset projects and sustainable practices.

Module 4: Introduction to ESG Frameworks

• Differentiate between ESG reporting frameworks and standards, ensuring compliance and effective communication of ESG efforts.
• Learn how to choose the right ESG framework for accurate and comprehensive reporting.
• Comprehend the difference between genuine sustainability efforts and greenwashing, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and investors.

Module 5: Introduction to Emissions Reporting & Supply Chain

• Understand different emission scopes, assess greenhouse gas emissions, and set reduction targets.
• Learn about emissions reporting to enhance transparency and meet regulatory requirements.
• Understand Greenhouse Gas Accounting Principles for standardized and credible accounting practices.

Module 6: Introduction to Pathway to Net Zero

• Develop a clear understanding of "Net Zero" and its importance in promoting business sustainability and combating climate change.
• Explore the benefits of adopting Net Zero practices for the environment, society, and reputation, enhancing businesses' competitive edge.
• Grasp actionable steps to transition towards carbon neutrality, fostering a sustainable future and unlocking a distinct competitive advantage.

You will have access for one year from the date of registration. This allows you to work through the six modules at your own pace.

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You will receive expert instruction from industry professionals with a proven track record of success.

The ESG microcredential course, Introduction to ESG, is instructed by Natalie Hick and Michelle Peden. Both Natalie and Michelle are industry professionals who have achieved great success in the ESG field. Natalie is the founder of Natural Capital Co. Pty Ltd., a specialized ESG consultancy company that offers services throughout Australia. Michelle serves as the Chief Operations and Sustainability Officer of the company. 

Natalie and Michelle met while attending the Executive Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at Bond University. Since then, Natural Capital Co has evolved to become a prominent player in the ESG consultancy space.

As experts in the field, Natalie and Michelle are well-equipped to deliver comprehensive and practical insights into the world of ESG. Their firsthand experience in working with a broad range of businesses to implement sustainable practices and navigate ESG frameworks ensures that participants will receive instruction from professionals who have direct, real-world knowledge of the subject matter.

With their combined expertise and passion for ESG and sustainability, Natalie and Michelle will guide participants through the course modules, providing valuable industry perspectives and best practices. Participants can expect to learn from their experiences and gain a deep understanding of the impacts and implications of ESG on businesses and society.

Having industry professionals like Natalie and Michelle as course instructors enhances the quality and relevance of the course material, ensuring that participants receive expert instruction that can be directly applied to their careers and businesses.

Hear from Natalie and Michelle

Completing the Introduction to ESG microcredential course can offer several beneficial outcomes for individual participants, including:

1. Enhanced Knowledge and Expertise: The course imparts knowledge of ESG principles and frameworks, making individuals valuable assets to employers.
2. Enhance Your Employability: ESG is a rapidly growing field, and companies across industries are increasingly looking for professionals with ESG expertise. 
3. Future-Proofing Skills: ESG knowledge prepares individuals for evolving industry demands as sustainability gains importance.
4. Contribution to a Sustainable Future: Understanding ESG's impacts allows individuals to drive positive change within their organisations and advocate for responsible practices in their industries.
5. Networking Opportunities: Participants will receive early-bird invitations to ESG networking events at Bond University.
6. Personal Growth and Fulfilment: Learning about ESG and its importance in addressing environmental and social issues can be personally fulfilling. 
7. Recognition and Credibility: Bond University is a reputable institution, and the formally recognised microcredential adds credibility to the individual's profile by demonstrating their commitment to continuous learning.
8. Access to Specialised Knowledge: The course offers specialised knowledge on topics such as natural capital, emissions reporting, and Net Zero pathways. This practical knowledge can be directly applied to individual roles or businesses seeking to integrate ESG practices.

Overall, the Introduction to ESG microcredential course can be a transformative learning experience for individuals, empowering them with the knowledge, skills, and perspective needed to thrive in the sustainability-focused business landscape and make a meaningful difference in their careers and beyond.

The learnings gained from completing the Introduction to ESG microcredential can empower your business to effectively implement ESG principles, driving positive environmental, social, and governance outcomes within your organisation:

1. Improved Business Results: Understanding and implementing ESG principles can positively impact your business performance. Companies with strong ESG propositions tend to outperform conventional operations, leading to improved financial results, increased competitiveness, and enhanced brand reputation.
2. Positive Impact on Business: ESG practices bring benefits such as reducing operational risks, enhancing employee satisfaction, and attracting socially conscious customers and investors.
3. Foundational Understanding: The course provides a comprehensive introduction to ESG principles, frameworks, and their relevance to businesses, serving as a starting point for integrating ESG practices.
4. Identifying Business Impacts: Learn about various ESG impacts on businesses, enabling identification of areas for ESG integration and development of strategies to address them. Understanding these impacts will enable you to identify areas within your business that can benefit from ESG integration and develop strategies to address them.
5. ESG Reporting Frameworks: Explore different ESG reporting frameworks to effectively measure, track, and communicate sustainability efforts to stakeholders.
6. Natural Capital and Carbon: Understand natural capital and its relation to biodiversity and carbon projects, assessing and improving environmental impact.
7. Pathway to Net Zero: Explore the concept of achieving Net Zero to reduce carbon footprint and create a roadmap for carbon neutrality.
8. Governance and Fiduciary Responsibilities: Comply with ethical and responsible practices, aligning business goals with sustainable outcomes.
9. Avoiding Greenwashing: Differentiate genuine ESG reporting from greenwashing, ensuring transparent communication of sustainability initiatives. This knowledge will help you ensure that your business communicates its sustainability initiatives transparently and authentically.
10. Integration into Business Strategy: Effectively integrate ESG considerations into business strategy, setting sustainability goals and aligning efforts with overall objectives.

By completing the Introduction to ESG microcredential, you will be equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to make informed decisions and drive positive change within your organisation. It provides a stepping stone for taking practical steps towards sustainability and making a meaningful impact on the environment, society, and your business's long-term success.