| dc.description.abstract | This master's thesis aims to shed light on the main complexities and barriers corporate groups
are confronted with when consolidating Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)
information, including how these complexities can be constructively addressed. Using an indepth
case study of an internationally leading seafood company with extensive experience in
reporting on ESG, we identify complexities on various levels of the corporate hierarchy and
apply a grounded theory approach to develop a comprehensive model of the challenges of ESG
consolidation in large and diverse corporate groups.
We propose a linear, step-by-step model for consolidation of ESG information. Initially, the
process begins with materiality analysis to identify relevant data to collect, factoring in external
pressures, internal priorities, and stakeholder communication to ensure adaptability and
sensible prioritization. The materiality analysis sets the criteria for data collection, which is
primarily challenged by its manual and time-consuming nature, along with variations in data
output from diverse business unit operations. We found that automating the process and
defining clear roles enhances efficiency in data collection. Following data collection, the
subsequent phase involves data sharing, characterized by comprehensive sharing of data and
unrevised scorecards. Standardization of parameters in reporting and regular in-person
meetings play a crucial role in this phase to manage data efficiently and guarantee the visibility
of all initiatives. Finally, in summarization of ESG data, our findings emphasize the criticality
of openly using diverse communication channels. Open communication is essential for
addressing delays and incorrect data for the continual improvement of the processes involved.
The emergent model presented aims to enhance insight into the critical steps of consolidating
ESG information by explaining key relationships in this process. This is done with the intent
of providing a richer perspective than what already exists in today’s literature and serve
practical utility for organizational application through increased understanding. | en_US |
