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26 de November de 2024

ESG|NGO's|Sustainability

ESG: The Role of Sustainability in the Corporate World

With the growing adoption of ESG practices, the corporate world demands professionals prepared to integrate sustainability, inclusion, and governance into business strategies.

 

ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices are becoming increasingly relevant in the Brazilian corporate landscape. Companies across various sectors recognize that aligning their strategies with sustainability pillars is not just an ethical obligation but also a way to ensure competitiveness and attract investors. This market shift requires professionals equipped to tackle challenges and promote innovative solutions that integrate sustainability into business strategies.

Two recent studies highlight this progress. A PwC study in partnership with Ibracon analyzed Ibovespa companies, revealing that 91% of them published non-financial reports in 2023. Additionally, the ESG Panorama Survey by Amcham Brazil and Humanizadas showed that 71% of Brazilian companies adopted ESG practices this year—a 24-percentage-point increase compared to 2022. These numbers underscore the growing engagement with the ESG agenda and the need for skilled professionals to navigate this evolving landscape.

ESG: A Demand of the Present

The transition to a more sustainable market requires not only good intentions but also preparation. Integrating sustainability into business strategies, cited by Amcham Brazil as a key factor for ESG success, is only possible with professionals who deeply understand environmental, social, and governance challenges.

Environmental practices remain a primary concern for companies and institutions, including actions to combat deforestation, preserve biodiversity, use renewable energy, and ensure responsible waste disposal.

In the social sphere, the market demands greater inclusion and diversity efforts. Female representation on Boards of Directors was highlighted by 83% of companies analyzed by PwC. However, only 18% reported Black representation in these spaces, revealing significant room for progress and the importance of professionals committed to promoting equity.

ESG Practices at the Ramacrisna Institute

When it comes to ESG, the range of possibilities is vast. Aware of these demands, the Ramacrisna Institute continually invests in ESG initiatives. For over 65 years, the Institute has implemented ESG-related actions such as transparency, self-sustainability projects, management competency training, solar energy generation through a photovoltaic plant, oil recycling, solar water heating, and environmental education. Below are some key initiatives:

Environmental

  1. Awareness and environmental education: The Institute fosters ongoing environmental education among children, youth, and adults involved in its projects, encouraging them to spread these values.
  2. Oil recycling: All oil used in the Automotive Mechanics School and Fence Factory is sent to a partner company for treatment and processing.
  3. Composting: Organic waste, leaves, and grass clippings have been composted for the past decade. The resulting organic fertilizer is used in gardens.
  4. Solar water heating: Vacuum tubes are used to heat water for kitchen hygiene, food preparation, buffets, and showers.
  5. Energy efficiency: The Institute’s headquarters is powered by a photovoltaic solar plant, a clean and renewable energy source.

Social
All Ramacrisna projects have a social focus. It is estimated that for every R$1 invested, there is a social return of R$5.59.
According to the Institute’s Impact Report, these initiatives align with 10 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrating its systemic approach to sustainable development. The aligned SDGs include:

  • SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
  • SDG 4: Quality Education
  • SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
  • SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
  • SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
  • SDG 5: Gender Equality
  • SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
  • SDG 1: No Poverty
  • SDG 2: Zero Hunger and Sustainable Agriculture
  • SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

Governance
Since 1994, the Ramacrisna Institute has invested in improving its administrative and financial processes. Since 2008, it has partnered with the Dom Cabral Foundation to enhance management strategies, develop systemic governance perspectives, train managers, implement managerial tools, improve internal processes, and strengthen self-sustainability.

Sustainability in the Corporate World: A Competitive Edge

Companies that invest in ESG not only strengthen their image but also boost their competitiveness. According to Sebrae, organizations committed to sustainability are well-regarded by society and the market. For these practices to be effective, leadership and workforce training is essential.

Institutions like the Ramacrisna Institute play a critical role in this regard. In 2023, the Institute’s employees underwent 1,636 hours of training, showcasing its commitment to equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills to implement ESG principles.

 

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