100 best in Europe shine as only half of European workers report ESG progress

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Fortune or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: A survey reveals that only 51% of European workers believe their companies’ decisions benefit society, and just 44% see their firms making environmentally beneficial decisions
• This comes as companies prepare for the EU’s 2025 Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive, which mandates sustainability disclosures

🔭 The context: While Europe faces slow progress on ESG, companies on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For in Europe list demonstrate how strong leadership and employee engagement drive success in ESG initiatives
• These companies excel in tying executive compensation to ESG performance and encouraging employee participation in community impact efforts

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Engaging employees in sustainability and ensuring leadership accountability can accelerate ESG progress, helping Europe meet critical environmental and societal goals

⏭️ What's next: European companies must improve transparency and align business decisions with ESG goals to meet upcoming reporting requirements and foster employee trust

💬 One quote: "Trust allows employees to share their ideas and notify leaders when the company isn’t living up to its values," said Tony Bond, Chief Impact Officer at Great Place to Work

📈 One stat: Only 51% of employees believe their organization’s decisions benefit society

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