Sing Tao News Corporation (parent company of The Standard) has partnered with Hong Kong Polytechnic University to establish an ESG certification programme.

This programme will evaluate the sustainable practices of companies in the areas of environmental, social, and governance (ESG). A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed to formalise this collaboration.

In addition to the certification scheme, the media group and university will organise various activities, such as seminars and training programmes, to raise awareness about ESG and encourage its adoption across the city.

Read our article, The Significance Of ESG Certification For Business.

The certification programme aims to acknowledge companies that excel in the ESG domain and offer guidance to enhance their sustainable practices, according to Cai Jin, co-CEO of Sing Tao.

Read our article, Top 9 ESG Courses And Certifications For Professionals.

Cai Jin stated that the scheme is being actively developed and may involve businesses from Hong Kong, other cities within the Greater Bay Area, or even global corporations.

As per the MoU, Sing Tao will utilise its media expertise, while PolyU's Center for Economic Sustainability and Entrepreneurial Finance will provide academic support.

The CESEF, established in 2015, has received funding from the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau to provide green finance and ESG guidance to corporations.

The signing of the MoU coincides with Hong Kong's efforts to reinforce its position as a green and sustainable financial hub. In April, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing proposed a three-month consultation paper that recommended mandatory disclosure of climate-related information within ESG reports of all listed issuers.

To view and compare company ESG Ratings and Sustainability Reports across sectors, follow our Company ESG Profiles page.

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Source: The Standard