In the media's perspective, what makes a good ESG story?

What makes an excellent ESG report?

On October 20th, the "Zero Carbon Future ESG Innovation Practice Awards" ceremony was held at the Future Assets Building in Pudong, Shanghai.

During the awards ceremony, Ms. Laura, the host of the ESG channel at Wall Street News, pointed out that the most impactful ESG practices must be rooted in a company's core business and supported by credible data.

She gave an example of a chemical company that recycles plastic bottles for reuse. The company uses its own technology to chemically transform PET bottles into foam material PU, which is used in construction materials and furniture interiors. This demonstrates a high level of integration between ESG and core business, rather than being a mere PR gimmick.

Another example is Tencent's "Elephant Canteen" project. Tencent uses big data technology to intelligently monitor elephant activities, analyze their feeding patterns, and set up food stations in key areas to guide elephants to eat in a more sustainable manner and reduce damage to farmland. This showcases Tencent's expertise as an internet company. Lenovo also contributes to the protection of the Yangtze River dolphins by providing storage systems and AI recognition technology, supporting the conservation efforts. They have implemented ESG in a way that supports their business development.

In contrast, ESG practices that rely solely on animal imagery for surface-level publicity often struggle to convince the media and the public. Ms. Laura suggests that companies should provide sufficient quantitative data support, rather than relying solely on emotional language. Data can enhance the authenticity and persuasiveness of ESG reporting.

In terms of social responsibility, she hopes to see more in-depth projects that go beyond superficial donations. Donation activities should also consider providing genuine assistance to the beneficiaries. For example, donating books should also focus on cultivating children's reading interests and providing mentorship and follow-up support, rather than simply delivering books.

Regarding corporate governance, existing cases often emphasize gender diversity data. She expects companies to explore new governance thinking, such as giving employees greater autonomy in their work. She cited her own experience at Wall Street News, where employees have significant autonomy in information gathering and editing. This reflects the synergy between governance innovation and individual freedom and creativity.

Lastly, she used the Japanese art of Kintsugi, which repairs broken pottery with gold, as a metaphor, urging companies to make good use of existing resources and achieve the sustainable development goals of ESG. This Eastern wisdom provides aesthetic inspiration for sustainable development. She welcomes companies to strengthen communication with the media and promote more positive ESG reporting to provide positive energy to society.