ESGmark® Certification

+ What is ESG?

ESG stands for Environmental, Social and Governance. Through these three lenses, we can evaluate how organisations are seeking to make a difference – from tackling the climate crisis to promoting a fair society for all. ESG is becoming more and more ingrained in common consciousness. Consumers are increasingly demanding that the organisations they support and associate themselves with are actively striving to protect the planet and support a fairer society for all. Regulatory requirements for ESG reporting continue to grow globally.

+ What does ESG mean for sustainable business growth?

ESG is a framework that drives sustainable business growth by embedding responsible practices into every aspect of an organisation. It encourages businesses to reduce their carbon footprint, support the planet, and operate with social responsibility and strong corporate governance. By integrating ESG principles, companies can gain a competitive advantage with consumers and investors, enhance long-term resilience and align with CSR and UN SDG goals. Ultimately, ESG helps businesses achieve growth that’s both profitable and sustainable, balancing financial performance with positive environmental impact, social equity, and ethical leadership.

+ What is ESG certification?

ESG certification is a formal recognition that an organisation operates with responsible business practices. Becoming certified in ESG is evidence that a company has gone through a due diligence process and meets defined standards, demonstrating accountability in areas such as carbon reduction, social responsibility, and ethical governance.

+ What are the benefits of ESG certification?

Achieving ESG certification helps organisations build trust with stakeholders, enhance their sustainability credentials, and align with CSR principles and UN SDG goals. It showcases a genuine commitment to tackling climate change and other environmental challenges while creating a supportive company culture and ethical supply chain, upholding human rights, and ensuring corporate accountability. Achieving ESG certification strengthens brand reputation, supports long-term business resilience, and positions the organisation as a responsible leader in its industry.

+ What is the mission statement of ESGmark®?

Inform, educate and empower organisations to act, help them navigate their ESG journey, and promote their ESG credentials to the growing population of environmentally and socially-conscious consumers.

+ What is ESGmark® Certification?

ESGmark® Certification is a symbol of trust and distinction. It is awarded to organisations who act positively with regard to the planet, to their stakeholders and society. It is a visible way for an organisation to proudly demonstrate its ESG credentials to the world.

+ Who is ESGmark® Certification for?

We encourage any type of organisation to apply for ESGmark® Certification. Small to large businesses, private companies, public companies, charities, recreational organisations, local councils, schools, universities…the list is endless.

+ How does ESGmark® Certification work?

Our process is straightforward, rigorous, and collaborative. We evaluate organisations against important Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, based on completion of our application form. The application process includes a call with our team so that you can meet us, and we can learn more about your organisation, request supporting evidence, and identify where we can help and support you. Organisations that meet our required standard are awarded with the ESGmark® Certification and offered membership into our community. We also provide a bespoke report which covers each of the areas of your application, along with recommendations and action points. Please click here to start your application.

+ How is ESGmark® different from other sustainability certifications?

ESGmark® provides a straightforward, rigorous, and cost-efficient ESG certification route, accessible to organisations of all sizes, including SMEs. ESGmark® Certification is more cost-efficient than other programmes (e.g. B Corp), with a greater focus on personalised, hands-on, and ongoing support throughout each organisation’s ESG journey. It also offers a more holistic and integrated approach than some other programmes (e.g. Planet Mark), covering environmental, social, and governance pillars while providing solutions to measure, analyse, and reduce carbon emissions on the path to Net Zero through our carbon measurement service. ESGmark® also supports businesses with networking, promotion, and strategic introductions, helping drive both responsible business growth and sustainability impact, while aligning with CSR and UN SDG goals. Distinct from other certification programmes, ESGmark® combines practical support, affordability, and a personalised approach in one comprehensive programme.

+ What happens if my organisation does not meet the requirements to be awarded the ESGmark®?

You will receive helpful feedback on the areas that will need to be improved before your organisation is eligible to be awarded the ESGmark® Certification. You are free to re-apply when you are ready. Certain organisations may be eligible for our Provisional Membership programme and benefit from tailored support prior to re-application.

+ How much does ESGmark® membership cost?

ESGmark® operates a fair pricing policy. We have no application fees, and the subscription fee for ESGmark® Certification is dependent on the turnover of your organisation. Please click here for details

+ Who is ESGmark®?

ESGmark® was founded by two long-standing colleagues, working together in the investment industry in London, UK. They noticed that ESG-focused investing is growing as a hugely important theme, with investors increasingly demanding that the companies they invest in meet their own Environmental, Social and Governance criteria. The founders realised that organisations of all sizes want to play a role in addressing the climate crisis and securing a fairer society for all. Thus, ESGmark® was created to help organisations and consumers deliver positive change. Learn more about us here.

+ What is the ESGmark® community?

The ESGmark® community is for people and organisations who care about the planet and society. Being a member brings numerous benefits, click here for further information.