What is ESG?

ESG stands for three areas that are used to measure responsible business:

— E for Environment – how a company affects nature,

— S for Social – how a company treats people,

— G for Governance – how a company is managed.

Unlike traditional business goals that focus only on money, ESG also looks at how the company impacts the world around it, like working conditions, climate, or equal opportunities. ESG helps to show if a company is working in a fair, open, and sustainable way.

The importance of ESG is growing, especially because of new laws. For example, the European Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) says that companies must share information about their impact on the environment, society, and workers. If they don’t follow the rules, they can face legal problems or lose the trust of the public and investors.

ESG is also important for employees and customers. Many people, especially younger generations, want to work for or buy from companies that share their values. They want to feel safe and respected and be part of a workplace that welcomes everyone.

LGBTQ+ diversity as part of social responsibility

The “social” part of ESG is not only about employees. It also includes people in the supply chain and local communities. It means giving everyone basic human rights – respect, safety, fairness, and the chance to grow.

In this area, diversity and inclusion are key. When a company creates a space where people feel free to be themselves, it brings many benefits:

1. Authenticity improves performance

People who feel safe and accepted at work can focus better, use their full potential, and bring more ideas. They don’t have to hide who they are.

2. Feeling accepted keeps people at work

When employees feel respected, they are more likely to stay. This saves money and keeps important knowledge inside the company.

3. Support builds trust and reputation

Companies that support LGBTQ+ people, for example, during Pride events or with internal programs, earn trust and attract new employees and customers.

How to start with LGBTQ+ inclusion in your company

Creating a truly inclusive workplace is not a one-time project. It takes time. Every company is different. But the first step should always be to understand what is happening now, by listening to the people who are most affected.

Listen to your people

Try an anonymous survey for employees. Ask how they feel at work: Do they feel safe? Do they feel respected? Do they trust the company to deal with problems like discrimination? Can they be themselves?

Make fair and clear rules

A safe place needs clear policies – for example, zero tolerance for discrimination or harassment. It’s also important that people know where to go if they have a problem, and that they will be heard.

Education is the key

Training helps people understand others, break down bias, and learn how to work together better. Workshops and training can make the company culture more kind, respectful, and safe.

You can start training inside your company, but it’s also good to invite outside experts. Pride Business Forum offers workshops on topics like unconscious bias, inclusive language, or the role of allies.

Talk openly and often

Real change happens when the topic becomes part of everyday company life. Your messages don’t have to be perfect, but they should be honest. The more open you are, the more you inspire others – inside the company and outside, with clients and the public.