ISS ESG, the sustainable investment division of proxy advisory firm Institutional Shareholder Services, has launched its inaugural ESG Corporate Rating Survey, which aims to gather feedback on its rating methodology. All interested parties are invited to participate, with the survey open for responses until 20 October. Bonnie Saynay, Global Head of Research at ISS ESG, said: “This inaugural ESG corporate rating survey underscores ISS ESG’s commitment to both transparency and engagement with stakeholders. We believe that this approach enhances the continuing value and relevance of our methodology, processes, and the service we deliver to investor clients, globally.” The survey begins by soliciting feedback on ISS ESG’s global approach and foundation, which draws on international normative frameworks, voluntary disclosure standards, and regulatory regimes. It then seeks input on materiality considerations, use-cases for the ISS ESG Corporate Rating, and the underlying data that comprise the rating. It also delves into specific sectors and topics, inquiring about the relevance of existing and emerging ESG issues, i. Including climate change, freshwater use, biodiversity loss, regenerative agriculture, and the circular economy, among others. The survey also addresses social topics like labour and human rights, customer health and safety, and data protection. The survey concludes by seeking feedback on governance risks and assessments in the ESG Corporate Rating methodology.
