In recent years, ESG - Environmental, Social, and Governance has become a central topic for modern businesses. This concept covers three key areas that companies must take into account to achieve long-term sustainable growth.
From 2025, new ESG reporting requirements will come into effect. Initially, they will apply to large companies, but over time they will also impact medium-sized and smaller businesses across the entire supply chain. ESG is becoming a new business standard, and companies need to be ready. This shift is driving demand for professionals who can design and implement ESG strategies effectively. At Cpl, we connect businesses with talent who bring ESG principles to life in daily practice.
The Three Pillars of ESG:
Environmental: Environmental responsibility, reducing carbon footprint, use of renewable resources.
Social: Ensuring equality and diversity, fair working conditions, positive relations with employees and communities.
Governance: Transparency, ethical management, and responsible decision-making.
ESG Reporting and Business Obligations
The first ESG reporting obligations take effect in 2025. These will apply to public-interest companies with more than 500 employees, who will be required to disclose ESG data for the year 2024.
In 2026, the obligation will extend to companies that meet at least two of the following three criteria:
More than 250 employees
Annual turnover exceeding CZK 1 billion
Balance sheet assets exceeding CZK 500 million
However, the European Commission has proposed an “omnibus” revision to the CSRD directive that could raise these thresholds - for example, increasing the employee limit to 1,000 and raising the turnover and asset limits. The goal is to reduce the administrative burden on smaller and mid-sized companies. This proposal is currently in the legislative process and has not yet been approved.
Regardless of the final regulatory form, large companies will begin requiring ESG data from their suppliers, which will impact the broader business environment, including smaller and medium-sized companies throughout the supply chain.
How ESG Contributes to Long-Term Business Success
Implementing ESG principles brings a range of advantages that are essential for competitiveness and long-term sustainability:
Building Trust and Reputation: Transparent ESG practices strengthen trust among customers, investors, and employees.
Access to Financing and Investment: Companies actively adopting ESG policies are more likely to secure funding and attract investors.
Fostering Innovation and Competitiveness: A focus on sustainability and ethical principles drives innovation and enhances competitiveness.
Improving Work Environments: ESG practices contribute to better working conditions and higher employee motivation.
Attracting and Retaining Talent: Talented individuals seek out companies that reflect their values, offer fair conditions, and promote a healthy workplace culture. ESG plays a key role in this. When people feel their work has broader impact, they’re more motivated and loyal.
Long-Term Resilience: Markets are evolving rapidly - from technological shifts to climate challenges. Companies that embed ESG in their daily operations are more agile, better equipped to manage risks, and prepared to face future market challenges.
The Rise of New ESG-Focused Roles
As the focus on ESG grows, new specialist roles are emerging - essential for embedding these principles into day-to-day operations. However, the labour market still faces a shortage of qualified ESG professionals, including managers and analysts, who are critical to achieving sustainable business success and ensuring compliance with new regulations.
At Cpl, we have a dedicated team of consultants specialising in ESG talent acquisition. We support companies aiming to become responsible leaders in environmental, social, and governance practices. Our goal is to connect organisations with skilled professionals who can drive and manage ESG strategies - helping them achieve long-term business goals.
Roles We Can Help You Hire
ESG Manager / ESG Specialist
Sustainability Manager
ESG Strategy Consultant
Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Consultant
Governance Risk and Compliance (GRC) Officer
ESG Data Analyst
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager
HR Specialist for ESG and Diversity
Looking for an ESG Expert?
Whether you're just starting your ESG journey or looking to strengthen your team, we’ll connect you with the right professionals to help move your business forward. Get in touch with us today!