Experts Highlight The Importance Of Social Aspects In ESG

Photo: Special

JAKARTA - In the 7th Global Conference: ESG Management & Sustainability, organized by the Center for Environmental and Social Governance Studies (CESGS) Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), the urgency of managing social aspects in the company's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy is one of the main highlights.

The event underlined that ESG is not only about the environment, but also about how companies can create inclusive and sustainable social impacts.

"Social aspects in ESG are not only about corporate social responsibility through community development programs, but also about how to create shared value that benefits all stakeholders," said Member of the National Management Board The Institute of Certified Sustainability Practicers (ICSP) Stella Septania to reporters, Friday, August 9.

As chairman in a panel discussion session entitled Managing Social Issues in Corporation, Stella emphasized the importance of human touch in the company's ESG strategy.

Stella added that aspects of humanity and culture must be the main consideration when the company develops their ESG strategies and initiatives.

Several important points raised in discussions include social justice, diversity and inclusiveness, as well as community involvement in making company decisions.

Emphasis on communication and local cultural understanding is the key in managing the social aspects in Indonesia that are so diverse and complex.

Stella also emphasizes that by managing social aspects well, the company not only gets a better reputation, but also creates a conducive operational condition through obtaining social license to operate.

The event, which was held at the ASEEC Tower Airlangga University, Surabaya, on August 6-8, 2024, involved experts from various backgrounds, ranging from academics to business practitioners from various countries, including Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, and India.

This conference is a clear proof of the increasing awareness of the importance of ESG in Indonesia and the Asian Region. This attention further encourages companies to make ESG an integral part of their business strategy, and contribute to sustainable development.