Over the last decade, Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”) has been an ever-evolving regulatory topic around the globe. Younger generations joining the workforce have been vocal about the importance of environmental and social responsibility in their place of employment, and as we continue to experience the effects of climate change, businesses have been feeling the pressure to prioritize ESG strategies and initiatives.
Successful ESG programs are vital for addressing common labor and employment legal issues such as employee engagement, mental health, whistleblower complaints, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (“DEI”) efforts to name a few. However, while invaluable, ESG programs do not come without risk, so companies are strongly advised to work with labor and employment counsel to identify existing issues and to audit or develop comprehensive policies to proactively address these issues.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”) also plays a critical role in the push for ESG preparedness. OSHA’s Center for Safety and Health Sustainability (“CSHS”) introduced an OSH-Sustainability initiative to integrate environmental, social, and economic considerations to carve out new opportunities to advance worker safety and health. Under this broad umbrella, companies have been shifting their view towards sustainability as an imperative investment in their business growth strategy.
This program will explore the emerging world of ESG including why it should matter to your organization, how it affects the legal landscape, and how to address risks associated with formulating your own ESG program.
Participants in this webinar will learn about:
- The benefits of implementing ESG initiatives in your workplace
- ESG compliance and reporting requirements for employers
- The OSH-Sustainability Connection model
- Risks associated with ESG
- Tips for boosting your company's ESG strategy
- Tools for creating or auditing your company’s ESG policies
Speakers:
Kara M. Maciel, Chair, Labor and Employment Practice Group
Eric J. Conn, Chair, OSHA Workplace Safety Practice Group
Rachel L. Conn, Chair, California Practice
Kimberly Richardson, Of Counsel
CLE: This program has been approved by SHRM for 1 hour of HR professional development credit. It has also been approved by HRCI for on general HR credit.