Environmental, Social and Governance Foundations

Environmental, Social and Governance Foundations, offered by Sustainability Unlocked, is a comprehensive online certificate programme designed to build foundational knowledge across the main environmental, social, and governance topics shaping the sustainability transition. The programme has a particular relevance to financial services while also providing knowledge applicable across wider business and organisational contexts. It helps learners understand sustainability fundamentals and develop the knowledge needed to contribute to organisational transition and change.

Core Content

The programme covers a broad range of ESG topics through dedicated learning pathways, including climate science, natural capital solutions, the blue economy, sustainable supply chains, and the transition to net zero. Learners explore the environmental, social, and governance factors influencing organisations and financial markets while developing a broader understanding of sustainability challenges, solutions, and organisational responses.

Key Skills

Participants will develop the ability to understand core ESG concepts and assess how sustainability issues affect organisations and financial services. The programme builds knowledge in climate change, net-zero transition, natural capital, sustainable supply chains, blue economy principles, sustainability strategy, ESG integration, and organisational change. It also helps learners identify how they can contribute to sustainability initiatives within their own professional environments.

Target Learners

This programme is designed for professionals working in financial services and other sectors who want to build or strengthen their ESG knowledge. It is suitable for learners at different stages of sustainability expertise, from those developing foundational knowledge to professionals seeking more competent and proficient understanding of specific ESG topics.

Learning Format

Hosted by Sustainability Unlocked, the programme is delivered 100% online and can be started instantly, allowing learners to study at their own pace. It includes 23 learning pathways, approximately 22 learning hours, and 27 CPD credits, with content delivered by 32 expert presenters. The programme is taught in English with English subtitles and provides a shareable certificate upon completion.

Additional Benefits

The programme provides broad exposure to ESG topics rather than focusing on a single sustainability discipline, making it useful for professionals who need to understand how different environmental and business issues connect. Its focus on climate science, natural capital, the blue economy, supply chains, and net-zero transition also provides a practical foundation for professionals seeking to contribute to sustainability strategies and organisational change.

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