I would like to start this introduction with a personal note.
My name is Thijs Struijk. I'm the main author of this Handbook. I'm from the Netherlands. I have been working on sustainable development for more than 20 years. I have studied Biology and have a bachelors and a masters degree in Cultural Anthropology.
I wrote both theses supported with years of fieldwork in the sustainable development arena. Learning from and about the Circular Economy was the central theme in my master thesis. I'm no authority of any kind, nor do I claim a single truth. But looking at sustainable development with the eyes of an anthropologist is very enriching. It is my professional aim to consolidate and share the insights I have gathered from 20 years in the field. I'm absolutely open for reflections and debate.
What is ESG transformation?
The first whole chapter discusses a theory for ESG transformation. Which starts with introducing the concept of sustainable development as a movement in a certain direction. I think it is very important that a definition for sustainable development supports business strategy.
I will try to stay away from any form or kind of morality and build the argument on logic. The logic that societies thrive and can continue to develop in an ecologically stable environment. And that economy and business can contribute to the stability of the environment.
In order to do so it is important that companies integrate ESG strategies in the business model. In a way it makes the business strong and sustainable. Our focus is Europe and more specific the European Union. This does not exclude, but rather includes the exchange of materials and energy from outside the EU. It is precisely the mode of exchange that will need to transform. Upstream, on site and downstream.
The role of Anthropology in ESG transformation
Anthropology provides the necessary insights to address the human side of exchange (without judgement). This offers a cultural approach to economy. Materials and energy don't just spontaneously exchange in a certain way. This particular way, and there are many, has evolved upon us, our businesses, our professional behaviors, the connections we make, and the types of exchange we favor.
With Anthropology we can explore the patterns that underlie these ways. By investigation a pattern we can become consciously competent in utilising these patterns for ESG transformation. For example, once aware of a pattern that describes a certain form of hierarchy, it can be used in favor of sustainable development.
The role of data in ESG transformation
Another important aspect to drive ESG transformation is data. From an Anthropological perspective data is an expression of human activity, decisions and behavior. We believe that data tells the stories of the past and the present, but based on these patterns it can also share perspectives on the future.
Data in combination with cultural patterns offers a very strong base for ESG transformation. Sharing the necessary insights about company data, ESG metrics, organisational patterns and business transformation is the aim of this Handbook. With one purpose to transform the modes of exchange of the economy and create this sustainable development movement.
Mission Guide
I want to make clear that this Handbook for ESG Transformation has been written with the purpose to underpin the service provided by Mission Guide. A company I run with my colleagues to offer data guidance to ESG strategy and transformation for European family businesses. We strongly believe that the European economy will work for the people and the land we live on, if CSRD compliance costs are turned into an investment in strong and sustainable European family businesses. In that perspective we see CSRD as a blessing in disguise.
Hope you will enjoy reading.
Feel free to reach out on Linkedin if you have any questions or remarks.
Thijs Struijk
ESG Mission Guide
