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ESG is the most important theme of the decade. Companies must perform well in all areas of ESG; being a laggard in any one of the 12 pillars outlined in GlobalData’s ESG framework will hurt their brand reputation and, ultimately, profits. It is easy to find examples of lacklustre governance in construction but much harder to find exemplary case studies. Companies that perform poorly in environmental and social issues are likely do so due to poor governance. Early engagement with all stakeholders, including suppliers, subcontractors, and local communities, is key to helping construction companies excel at ESG. Companies that understand and engage with ESG initiatives now and demonstrate their ability and willingness at the tender stage will win more contracts and turn more profits.

However, not all companies are equal when it comes to their capabilities and investments in the key themes that matter most to their industry. Understanding how companies are positioned and ranked in the most important themes can be a key leading indicator of their future earnings potential and relative competitive position.

According to GlobalData’s thematic research report, , leading adopters include: Siemens, Skanska, , POSCO, and .

Insights from top ranked companies

Siemens

Siemens has committed to reducing absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 50% by 2030 and absolute scope 3 GHG emissions 15% by 2030 from a 2019 base year. The scope 1 and 2 targets are consistent with reductions required to keep warming to 1.5°C. Siemens supports the UN initiative Global LGBTI Standards of Conduct for Business. In March 2020, the company formed a worldwide aid fund to help relieve and combat Covid-19, donating €15.2m to date.

Skanska

Skanska employs and contracts over 70 individuals solely to provide environmental support to business operations and projects. It was among the first contractors in the UK to achieve ISO14001 certification, the international standard that specifies requirements for an effective environmental management system. The company uses Skanska Color Palette to guide its green activities. The tool describes how operations range from legal compliance to near-zero environmental impact. Skanska’s UK subsidiary was one of four pioneering companies on the construction sector’s first industry-wide flexible working pilot. Initial results from the Timewise Construction Pioneers Programme pilot found that employees’ well-being improves, with no detrimental impacts on budget or deadline.

To further understand the key themes and technologies disrupting the construction industry, access GlobalData’s latest thematic research report on .