Stage 5: Share your progress

Where do you start collecting data to understand ESG performance? You might be surprised at how much you already have! Most ESG data comes from things like utility bills (electricity, gas, water), other supplier invoices and receipts (waste collection, flights, fuel) and HR records (salaries, demographics, training).

To track your sustainability efforts, focus on those areas you’ve identified as a priority. Identify what data you already have, and what other metrics you’d like to track. Start with a simple spreadsheet to document your data, sources and calculations. Then you can upgrade to the right software for your needs.

A carbon footprint is an indicator of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions caused by your business, either directly, for example by burning fuel, or indirectly, for example by using electricity. Small businesses are increasingly being asked for theirs by large organisational customers and financial institutions.

Reporting frameworks can seem like burdensome admin, but they can help give you direction and they provide a common language and guidance for collecting and presenting the information your stakeholders are asking you for anyway.

The various reporting frameworks, initiatives and even certifications can feel a bit like alphabet soup! GRI, SDG, IFRS, ASRS, CSRD! But don’t worry, you don’t need to know what they all mean. You just need to identify which one your stakeholders want to see. Learn more in the diagram below.

See the Continue Learning page for more information on these reporting frameworks.

It’s not just about collecting data; use it to reflect as well. Are you moving towards your goals? What’s working? What needs a tweak? Schedule a regular check-in, (for example quarterly or twice a year), to review progress, learn from results, and adjust as needed.

Many small businesses hesitate to talk about their sustainability efforts, but you don’t have to be perfect or produce a big glossy report!

A simple web page works well for a small business, supported by communications via blog post, newsletter and social media. You can also post your achievements on platforms like Sumday Profiles and Sustainability Tracker which display brands’ sustainability initiatives and credentials.

It’s best to be open and authentic about your challenges as well as your progress. Focus on being specific, clear and honest with any claims and backing them up with evidence (like data and examples) to show that you’re not greenwashing.

Consider working toward a third-party certification, rating or ecolabel. These help define what good looks like and shows that your business meets recognised standards. It builds trust with your customers, partners and investors and helps them feel confident in your claims.