Why accounting firms are the secret key to ESG success and how they can lead the way

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the term ESG? Wind turbines, recycling, corporate accountability? Perhaps something like that, but probably not accounting firms! However as the world embraces sustainable practices, ESG reporting is becoming essential - even for SMEs.

So while accounting firms may not have been the first thing that sprung to mind, they are uniquely positioned to grab hold of the steering wheel and take the lead in delivering ESG advisory services. Our new whitepaper shows how firms can successfully deliver ESG advisory, create new revenue streams, and help clients share their impact story while meeting growing demands for transparency and ethical business practices.

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Why ESG Matters for Clients and Firms

Today, many clients face pressure from stakeholders and regulatory bodies to adopt ESG practices. Accounting firms can play a critical role by offering services that guide clients through compliance, risk management, and ESG strategy development. This includes everything from carbon accounting and stakeholder engagement to ESG performance benchmarking.

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Top ESG Advisory Opportunities

The whitepaper identifies seven key ESG opportunities for accountants to explore:

• Discovery Audits - Assess current ESG practices and identify areas for improvement.
• Strategy and Goal Setting - Help clients define clear, actionable ESG objectives.
• KPI Setting and Benchmarking - Track ESG metrics to measure progress.
• Data Collection and Reporting - Guide clients in gathering ESG data and creating impactful reports.
• Stakeholder and Supply Chain Engagement - Advice on sustainable supplier practices and transparency.
• Climate Services and Carbon Accounting - Assist clients in understanding and managing their carbon footprint.
• Impact Storytelling - Turn ESG data into powerful narratives to share with investors and customers.
• Getting Started with ESG Advisory
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Tools like Spotlight Sustain make it easier for firms to provide ESG reporting at scale. With customisable templates, KPI tracking, and a wide array of reporting options, accountants can offer a seamless, data-driven advisory experience that helps clients align with ESG best practices.

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The Way Forward

Embracing ESG isn’t just about keeping up with trends—it’s about future-proofing client businesses and contributing to a sustainable business ecosystem. The time is ripe for accounting firms to leverage ESG as a powerful advisory service that sets them apart in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Read the full whitepaper for an in-depth guide to ESG advisory services and tools for scaling your impact.

We currently offer 50% off Spotlight Sustain for the first 12 months. Interested? Sign up today: https://www.spotlightsustain.com/

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