What is an ESG Report?
An ESG report is a simple way to show how your business is doing when it comes to Environmental, Social, and Governance matters.
While the focus on Environmental matters relatively well understood, the Social and Governance aspects are just as important.
Social covers things like staff wellbeing, training, equality, and how you support your community. It shows you care about the people who work for you and those around you — and that you’re building a positive culture that people want to be part of.
Governance looks at how your business is led. That includes decision-making, accountability, ethics, data protection, and risk management. It’s about being transparent and responsible — having systems in place that keep things fair, safe, and future-proof.
Together, these areas tell a powerful story about your business values. A good ESG report helps you stay on track, build trust, and stand out when bidding for work or attracting investment.
Why do you need an ESG Report?
Most businesses aren’t required to publish an ESG report, but doing so can bring real value and help you stand out in the supply chain. Here are just some of the benefits:
✅ Show the good you’re already doing - Celebrate the things you are already doing in supporting your staff, reducing waste, acting ethically. An ESG report brings all of that together in one place, so you can share it with pride.
✅ Improve from the inside out - The reporting process highlights areas for improvement and helps you make better decisions, boost efficiency, and create a stronger business.
✅ Win more work in the supply chain - Clients and contractors increasingly expect their suppliers to show ESG credentials. A clear, honest report can give you the edge when bidding for contracts.
✅ Build trust with staff and stakeholders - An ESG report shows that you care about more than profit. It helps your team, clients, and partners see that you’re committed to doing the right thing.
✅ Prepare for the future - As ESG becomes more important across all industries, having a clear strategy now puts you ahead. It shows leadership, builds resilience, and keeps you competitive.
How can ApplaudBC help?
At Applaud BC, we can support you through the process of writing your ESG report. Our usual process is:
1. Understand your business
We start by getting to know your values, goals, and how you operate. This helps shape a report that reflects who you are.
2. Gather the right information
We collect data and examples from across your business — from energy use and waste, to staff wellbeing, training, policies, and leadership practices.
3. Identify what matters most
Not everything will be relevant. We help you focus on the areas that are most important to your business, your people, and your clients.
4. Review what’s already in place
Chances are, you’re already doing lots of great things. We capture that, and spot any gaps or opportunities to improve.
5. Write the report
We pull everything together in a clear, friendly format — no jargon, no waffle. Just a useful report that reflects your strengths and sets out next steps.
6. Share it with pride
You can use your ESG report to engage staff, show clients what you stand for, and demonstrate leadership in your sector.
Need help getting it right?