ESG Essentials: Sustainable Business Strategies for a Changing World

HKU ESG MOOC Course syllabus

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1. ESG: Origins, Standards and Frameworks

ESG standards and frameworks differ significantly across regions and industries. This module introduces the complex landscape of ESG by looking at its origin and evolution, as well as the major standards and frameworks being adopted globally. We will also examine how such standards and frameworks are measuring and promoting positive corporate social performances to inform investment and consumer choices. Major topics to be covered include ESG's Origins and Evolution, Major ESG Issues, Global and Regional Standards and Frameworks, Green Finance, ESG Investing, and ESG Reporting.

2. Environmental Factors and Resource Management

Climate change is one major drive for corporations to consider and adopt ESG strategies. This module will help learners understand why climate change and carbon emissions matter to certain corporations and identify the main operations that are creating the largest positive and negative impact. Major topics to be covered include Climate Change, Carbon Emissions, Environmental Management Systems: Energy, Water, Emission, Waste, Biodiversity, etc., Natural Capital and Resource Management, Net-Zero Business Model, Science-Based Target, Environmental Risk Management and Mitigation, Environmental Law and Compliance, and Circular Economy.

3. SustainableFinance

Sustainable finance refers to the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into financial decision-making processes. It involves the allocation of financial resources towards investments that not only generate financial returns but also have positive impacts on society and the environment. This module on sustainable finance will cover topics such as ESG analysis, impact investing, green bonds, sustainable banking, and the role of financial institutions in promoting sustainability. Students will gain an understanding of the principles, practices, and tools needed to effectively navigate and contribute to the growing field of sustainable finance.

4. Social Factors: Risks and Opportunities

The "Social" element of ESG refers to the impact that a company's operations have on its employees, customers, suppliers, and the broader community. This includes factors such as labor standards, human rights, health and safety, diversity and inclusion, and community relations. Socially responsible business practices involve considering these factors alongside financial performance when making decisions. In this module, students will learn about the various aspects of social responsibility and how it can be integrated into business practices. They will also explore the role of investors and other stakeholders in promoting social responsibility and holding companies accountable for their actions. Major topics to be covered include Employment, Labour Rights, Modern Slavery, Indigenous Rights and Local Communities, Diversity, Inclusion and Equal Opportunity, Shareholder Social Commitment, Private - Social Collaboration, and Community Engagement.

5. Building Trust: Governance and Accountability in the Era ofSustainability

The "Governance" element of ESG refers to the way in which a company is managed and controlled. Good governance is critical for a company to build and maintain trust with its core stakeholders. It includes factors such as board composition, executive compensation, shareholder rights, audit and risk management, and transparency. Good governance practices are essential to ensuring that companies act in the best interests of their stakeholders, including shareholders, employees, and customers. In this module, students will learn about the various aspects of corporate governance and how it can be evaluated and improved. They will also explore the role of investors and other stakeholders in promoting good governance and holding companies accountable for their actions. Major topics to be covered include Corporate Governance, Board Structure and Composition, Board Diversity and Inclusion, Legal Duties of Directors and the Organization, Risk Management Framework, ESG Materiality Assessment, and Business Intelligence.

6. Making Positive Changes through ESG Leadership

ESG is the most in-demand job category worldwide and it is crucial that business leaders are fully equipped with the knowledge, skills and competencies to make informed decisions for their organisations. In this final module, learners will reflect on their own experiences and develop personal and organisational strategies to create positive changes. The module will bring together insights and experiences from academia as well as business leaders to present learners with practical knowledge and skills for ESG leadership. With the combination of lectures, interviews and exclusive case studies, learners will be able to map their ESG goals according to their geographic location, business model and industry type, and develop personal and organisational strategies towards sustainability.