The concept of "impact beyond profit" is becoming increasingly important, redesigning the purpose and strategy of companies and their contribution to society and the environment, due to the growing demands of consumers, collaborators and investors for a socially responsible and sustainable action
Currently, many companies have focused on purposes that go beyond financial return, but also in environmental sustainability initiatives and projects, social responsibility programs and actions aimed at the well-being of the communities located around the corporations
According to a study released in April 2024, carried out by Amcham Brazil, "ESG Panorama 2024" – who heard 687 Brazilian executives and business leaders – there was a 24% increase in the adoption curve of ESG practices (environmental governance, social and corporate, in relation to the same survey, in 2023
According to the research, regarding knowledge and experience in the ESG agenda, there was a significant increase of 13 percentage points compared to 2023, com 75% dos respondentes reportando ter experiência e/ou conhecimento razoável sobre o tema. The increase indicates a greater understanding of ESG practices by Brazilian companies
When asked why organizations are adopting the ESG agenda, 78% of respondents stated that they seek a more positive impact on environmental and social issues. Regarding the benefits of adopting the ESG agenda, 50% said to strengthen the local community. Furthermore, the social pillar is the priority for 72% of respondents, followed by governance (68%) and environmental (66%). Another point is that more than half seek to train employees (65%), develop diverse and inclusive culture (61%), in addition to generating jobs and income in the local economy (54%)
As awareness of social and environmental issues grows, companies face pressures to disclose transparency in their activities and impacts, that can be measured, evaluated and displayed through specialized companies and consultancies
Adopting socially responsible practices
According to Andrea Moreira, CEO of Yabá, ESG consulting that creates and develops solutions for companies with a focus on positive impact on society, companies should not only seek to generate profit, but also create shared value, drive sustainable growth and generate a positive social impact. What it means to adopt responsible business practices and invest in initiatives that address social and environmental challenges in a meaningful way
"Today, there is a strong trend of collaboration, in which companies join with non-governmental organizations and also with the government itself to expand and promote social impact. For that, it is necessary to engage with key stakeholders, that encompasses not only clients and investors, but also local communities and NGOs. Open and collaborative dialogue with these groups is essential to promote positive changes and, by adopting strategies to engage and collaborate with stakeholders, we strengthen relationships, promoting transparency and driving positive socio-environmental impact, affirms Andrea. The specialist also adds that today, social responsibility is no longer an option, but rather an essential part of identity and business strategy
The actions taken by corporations can be done through Support for Funds, movement aimed at helping companies allocate resources to the Child and Adolescent Fund and the Elderly Fund, in addition to Incentive Laws, as a tax incentive, in which companies donate part of the tax value to social projects that aim to encourage social development and culture or also through Sports Incentive, in which companies allocate part of the Income Tax for the implementation of sports and parasports projects throughout the national territory
Another method for companies to adopt social practices, besides those mentioned above, it is through the relationship and engagement with the communities located around the companies. "In this case, companies can engage in projects that bring benefits to the locality and for this it is necessary to consider human factors at each stage of the process: from planning to implementation it is essential to understand and meet the needs of the communities involved, respecting cultures, traditions and aspirations of each one, explain Andrea
In summary, the companies that embrace such changes are shaping a more sustainable future and also ensuring their long-term relevance, recognizing that success is directly linked to the well-being of communities and society. "I believe we can make a difference by creating a future where economic growth is truly sustainable and inclusive for all", Andrea finishes
