The critical role of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) data in driving sustainable growth and operational efficiency within the transport, logistics, and supply chain sectors was the focal point of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport: South Africa’s (CILTSA) ESG Conference. Held on 25 July in Johannesburg, the event centred around the theme “From Data to Decisions: Utilising ESG Data for Smarter Business Strategies.”
Industry leaders and experts convened to share insights and challenges related to ESG data management. The conference highlighted the growing investor demand for ESG information. As Clemence Mcnulty, Africa Climate Change and Sustainability Service leader: EY stated, “This growing demand for ESG information underscores the importance of robust data management for companies in these sectosr. 99% of investors are using ESG disclosures in their investment decisions.”
Despite the increasing importance of ESG data, the industry faces significant hurdles. Inconsistency in data quality, difficulties integrating ESG data with existing systems, and a lack of high-quality data are among the key challenges identified by organisations. To address these challenges, a multi-disciplinary approach is essential. This includes establishing data standards, developing scalable technology platforms, engaging with suppliers on ESG data, and implementing robust governance frameworks.
Several industry leaders shared their experiences and strategies. Transnet, South Africa’s largest rail, port, and pipeline company, outlined its ambitious ESG targets and data-driven approach to achieving them. Mapaseka Lukhele, General Manager, Corporate Sustainability at Transnet, said, “Moving forward, collaboration among all industry stakeholders will be crucial in our collective journey towards NetZero.”
Absa emphasised its commitment to sustainable finance and highlighted the importance of financial inclusion, diversity, and climate action. Bernard Vilakazi, Sector Specialist: Transport & Logistics, Relationship Banking: Absa, outlined the key ESG focus areas of the bank – financial inclusion, diversity and inclusion, and climate. “For us, it is all about the 3Ps – Planet, People and Prosperity,” he emphasised.
Isuzu showcased its vision for a sustainable future, including the introduction of Diesel Dual Fuel and Compressed Natural Gas vehicles. Craig Uren, Senior Vice President: Revenue Generation (SACU markets): Isuzu and Mpho Nkhumeleni, Executive, Commercial Vehicle Sales: Isuzu Motors South Africa, shared Isuzu’s ambitious vision to minimise environmental impacts and secure a prosperous and sustainable society by 2050.
JC Auditors underscored the importance of adopting international standards like GRI (Global Reporting Initiative) and SASB (Sustainability Accounting Standards Board) for enhancing ESG credibility and managing risks. Oliver Naidoo, Managing Director of JC Auditors, highlighted the need for effective governance to prevent incidents like the N3 truck crash, which can have severe impacts on supply chains, emphasising the importance of embracing international standards as a key component of ESG credibility. “ESG is crucial for investors as it measures how companies make money, rather than just how much money they make,” he explained.
“Collaboration with ESG alliance partners is crucial for driving intelligent decision-making,” said CILTSA president Elvin Harris. “By leveraging ESG data, companies can not only meet regulatory requirements, but also gain a competitive advantage and contribute to a more sustainable future.”
The Conference was co-MCed by Shameela Soobramoney, CEO: National Business Initiative, and Liesl de Wet, Head, Accelerated Organisational Sustainability: Unitrans and Chairperson of the Road Freight Association’s Green Transport Working Group.
Session facilitators included Liesl de Wet, Aaron Munetsi – CEO: Airlines Association of Southern Africa and Ndia Magadagela – Founder and CEO: Everlectric.
The Conference was sponsored by Isuzu, Transnet, Absa, Tendai Mhlanga Photography and JC Auditors.
