ESG News: The Stories You Might Have Missed in July
Sustainability news shows no sign of slowing down as the second half of the year kicks off. Press release trends in July indicate that brands are still leaning into ESG.
Below is a roundup of the ESG news trends we noticed in press releases sent via PR Newswire throughout July – and tips for helping journalists stay on top of these kinds of announcements.
1. Getting Ahead of Regulations
Climate-related financials and initiatives are in the midst of undergoing regulation, and thanks to organizations like the Taskforce on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures and Science Based Target Initiatives, companies can get up to speed on meeting regulatory standards. For example, Yum China released a report this month about its alignment with the TCFD’s four pillars: Governance, Strategy, Risk Management, and Metrics and Targets.
Regulation has yet not been solidified, but preparing for possible rules by aligning with top-tier third-party research organizations helps companies become compliant if a change occurs. Organizations are communicating their plans and commitments to the media and stakeholders.
Here are a few recent examples:
- DuPont Commits to Set Science-Based Targets for GHG Emissions Reduction
- Yum China Releases First TCFD Report, Advancing its Commitment to Climate Action
Read more about how a new SEC rule could result in even more ESG press releases.
2. Continued Collaborations
Sometimes achieving complicated goals requires two or more organizations to come together, and these partnerships can drive great advancements in the world of sustainability. In July, we saw Alaska Airlines, Microsoft and carbon transformation firm Twelve announce a collaboration to develop sustainable aviation fuel that reduces carbon emissions. When companies have a common goal — like reaching net-zero — working together helps them reach their target sooner.
We’re seeing regular ESG press releases announcing who companies are working with and their timelines for success.
Here are a few of the donations and commitments made in July:
- Twelve and Alaska Airlines to Collaborate with Microsoft to Advance Sustainable Aviation Fuel Derived from Recaptured CO2 and Renewable Energy.
- Johnson Matthey and ClimeCo Collaborate to Accelerate the Development of Low Carbon Solutions
3. Going Beyond the Press Release
In addition to regular earnings calls or M&A announcements, some companies are also utilizing webcasts and conference calls to connect with shareholders for communications around their ESG initiatives. This month, Cisco and investment bank Jefferies planned a webcast on “Human Capital Management for the Financial Community.” The event’s main goal is to educate those in management and investor relations positions on driving shareholder value through social means.
Just like announcing earnings or conference calls, companies are highlighting their ESG webcasts via press releases to build awareness for not only their shareholders but journalists as well.
These July press releases invited investors and the media to learn about companies’ implementation of ESG services:
- Dell Technologies to Hold Investor Conference Call July 21 to Discuss Its ESG Strategy.
- Cisco and Jefferies to Host Webcast on Human Capital Management.
The Takeaway
The second half of 2022 began strong for ESG news. Brands are taking the opportunity to discuss major initiatives in areas that are widely talked about in regulatory circles. With data providers, consultants and task forces, companies can stay ahead of what regulators may opt for on climate disclosures. More disclosures typically translate to more press materials, so stay ahead of the curve and set up your newsfeed with PR Newswire for Journalists now.
In addition, collaborations are creating opportunities for companies to showcase their projects, operations and targets for sustainability. Lastly, organizations are leveraging their existing means of communication like webcasts and teleconferences to better connect with their audiences. And similar to other events, they’re sharing the details for these ESG events in press releases. Once your newsfeed is set up, you can narrow the results down to ensure you’re receiving the right kinds of press releases, whether it’s ESG news, joint ventures or partnerships, or conference call announcements.
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As the IR Activations Director at Cision, Justin Ruiss creates and executes Investor Relations and ESG strategies including sales initiatives, marketing communication, knowledge and insights. Justin's background in equity and primary research helps frame his approach to IR.
