Speak Out! Sustainability and ESG in Business Meetings

▪︎ Talk About Green Goals with Confidence

More companies are discussing sustainability and ESG in meetings, presentations, and reports. These topics are no longer just for environmental teams. Everyone in business should be ready to join conversations about eco strategy, social impact, and responsible growth.

Here is a vocabulary guide to help you speak clearly and professionally in these meetings.

▪︎ Sustainability

What it means: Meeting present needs without damaging the ability of future generations to meet theirs

Key vocabulary:
• sustainable — something that can last or continue without harm
• long term impact — the effect something has over time
• green initiatives — projects or actions that support the environment
• reduce waste — cut down on unnecessary use of materials

Workplace example:
Our company supports sustainability by reducing plastic use in packaging and switching to energy saving equipment.

Useful phrase:
We are investing in sustainable practices to lower our long term impact on the planet.

▪︎ ESG (Environmental Social Governance)

What it means: A business framework that focuses on environmental care, social responsibility, and ethical leadership

Key vocabulary:
• ESG strategy — a company plan to meet environmental and social goals
• carbon footprint — the amount of greenhouse gases caused by a person or group
• compliance — following rules or laws
• accountability — taking responsibility for actions and results

Workplace example:
Our clients now request regular ESG updates as part of their supplier review process.

Useful phrase:
Our ESG strategy focuses on reducing emissions, improving employee wellbeing, and ensuring transparency.

▪︎ Eco Workplace Buzzwords

What it means: Common green expressions used in meetings and business discussions

Key vocabulary:
• circular economy — a system where materials are reused or recycled instead of thrown away
• net zero — when a company removes as much carbon as it produces
• greenwashing — when a company pretends to be eco friendly but is not
• low impact — something that causes minimal harm to the environment

Workplace example:
We want to avoid greenwashing and take real steps toward building a low impact supply chain.

Useful phrase:
The goal is to move toward a circular economy where waste becomes a resource.

▪︎ Discussion Skills for ESG Topics

What it means: How to speak professionally and clearly about green goals and values

Key vocabulary:
• align with — match or support a goal or value
• implement — put a plan or idea into action
• measurable — something that can be tracked or counted
• stakeholder — anyone affected by a company’s actions

Workplace example:
Our team needs to align our operations with the company’s sustainability targets for the next quarter.

Useful phrase:
We need measurable results that show how our ESG efforts are making a difference.

▪︎ Final Thoughts

Talking about sustainability and ESG is now part of everyday business. These are not just trends. They are part of how companies grow, build trust, and show leadership. By learning the right vocabulary and phrases, you will sound more confident and professional in meetings and written communication.

Be ready to join the conversation with real vocabulary for a greener future.