Course Overview
A practical introduction to ESG
ESG is widely discussed across business, investment and sustainability, but it is often misunderstood or made more complicated than it needs to be.
This course introduces the foundations of ESG, the wider landscape and some of the key concepts needed to think about it more clearly.
In this course, we explore:
- The origin and rise of ESG
- How the ESG framework is used in practice
- How ESG compares with CSR and the SDGs
- Double materiality, ESG ratings and common misunderstandings
- Challenges, criticisms and the future direction of ESG
Course Structure
How the course is structured
The course includes 14 concise video lessons, a downloadable PDF slide deck, additional reading material and a short multiple-choice exam. Estimated learning time is 2–3 hours. A Certificate of Completion is available after successful completion.
Foundations
Understand where ESG came from, why it gained attention and what the framework is designed to do.
Key Concepts
Explore CSR, SDGs, double materiality, ESG ratings and the different ways ESG is understood and applied.
Certificate & Completion
Complete the video lessons and short exam to receive a Certificate of Completion.
Who It Is For
For learners who want a clearer understanding of ESG
This course is designed for people who want a practical foundation in ESG and a clearer way to think about the topic.
- Business leaders and executives looking to understand ESG at a strategic level
- Financial professionals, advisers and analysts navigating ESG in investment and reporting
- Teams working in risk, governance, compliance or sustainability roles
- Students and early-career professionals building ESG knowledge
Access This Course
This course is included in the Sustainable Investment Hub, with annual access to selected courses, guides, webinars and microlearning lessons on responsible investment, ESG and sustainability.
€99/year
Join the HubPractical course. Clear thinking.
A practical introduction to ESG for people who want clarity without unnecessary jargon.
Vincent McCarthy, CFA
Founder, Responsible Investment Institute®