Module Aim & Introduction
In recent decades, the concept of sustainability has evolved from an abstract ideal to a central element of economic, political and corporate strategies.
Growing environmental awareness, social pressures and regulatory requirements have prompted companies to rethink their business models in terms of sustainability, integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria into their decision-making processes.
ESG regulations – an acronym for Environmental, Social and Governance – represent the set of rules, standards and principles that guide organisations towards responsible management of environmental and social impacts, promoting transparent and ethical governance.
Today, it is a pillar of sustainable transition, as it links environmental legislation to ESG reporting and auditing systems, which are essential tools for ensuring the quality and reliability of information provided to stakeholders.
The aim of the module is to understand how European environmental legislation, together with reporting standards and audit processes , promotes transparency, accountability and competitiveness among businesses.
The European and international regulatory framework, operational tools, standards (CSRD, ESRS, GRI) and ESG auditing practices will be analysed, highlighting their strategic role in strengthening corporate credibility and sustainability.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
- Understand the EU and international environmental regulatory framework.
- Knowledge of the main standards (CSRD, ESG, ISSB, ESRS, GRI).
Skills
- Apply ESG auditing, reporting and principles to business strategies.
- Assess sustainability related risks and opportunities.
Autonomy & Responsibility
- Correctly interpreting double materiality.
- Promote ESG compliance as a lever for continuous improvement.
Glossary of technical terms
- ESG: environmental, social and governance criteria. CSRD: EU Directive 2022/2464 on sustainability reporting. ESRS: European Sustainability Reporting Standards.
- GRI: Global Reporting Initiative, reporting framework.
- ESG audit: independent verification of sustainability data.
- Double Materiality: assesses both the company’s impact on the environment and the environment’s impact on the company.
- Sustainability report: document that integrates economic and non-financial performance.
- EU taxonomy: classification system for sustainable economic activities, introduced to facilitate green investments.
