GreenCo ESG – All rounded ESG Consulting

GreenCo ESG Advisory Limited is a leading ESG consulting firm in Hong Kong, renowned for its expertise in ESG reporting sustainability and climate-related disclosures. In today’s business environment, where Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance is a top priority for investors and regulators alike, GreenCo provides tailored guidance to help Hong Kong public listed companies and private organisations achieve sustainability excellence. This article delves into GreenCo’s comprehensive services and unique competitive advantages — ranging from compliance with the Hong Kong Stock Exchange ESG reporting guidelines to alignment with global frameworks such as GRI and IFRS — while highlighting why robust ESG and climate risk management are crucial for companies operating in Hong Kong.

Whether you are a listed company navigating new climate disclosure requirements or an established organisation looking to enhance your sustainability practices, GreenCo is here to support you, with our seasoned team offering end-to-end ESG consulting solutions tailored to your needs. Explore how GreenCo’s expertise, credentials, and proven track record can empower your business to meet regulatory obligations, manage climate risks, and achieve ESG excellence. Together, we can navigate the complexities of sustainability and enhance your resilience in a competitive landscape.

Why ESG and Climate Risk Management Matter for Hong Kong Companies

In Hong Kong’s fast-paced and competitive business landscape, ESG and climate risk management have evolved from being “nice-to-have” to a strategic and regulatory imperative. The Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) has made ESG disclosures a mandatory requirement for all listed companies, who must now publish an annual ESG report aligned with their financial reporting cycle. This means businesses are expected to transparently disclose a wide range of sustainability metrics — from environmental performance and carbon emissions to labour practices and anti-corruption measures — on an annual basis. In this environment, non-compliance is not an option; stakeholders and regulators alike demand accountability and transparency.

The urgency for robust climate risk management has been further amplified by new regulations. Effective 1 January 2025, HKEX’s ESG Reporting Code will require enhanced climate-related disclosures in ESG reports. These disclosures, aligned with the IFRS S2 Climate-related Disclosures standard, are structured around four key pillars: Governance, Strategy, Risk Management, and Metrics & Targets. In practical terms, Hong Kong-listed companies must demonstrate how their boards oversee climate-related issues, outline strategies to mitigate climate risks, detail processes for identifying and managing these risks, and provide measurable metrics (such as greenhouse gas emissions) alongside clear targets for reducing their climate impact.

Investors and regulatory authorities are closely monitoring these developments. The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (“FSTB”) of the HKSAR Government has published the Roadmap on Sustainability Disclosure towards IFRS aligned disclosures for large publicly accountable entities (“PAE”) by 2028, while the HKEX’s currently effective ESG Code already incorporate critical elements of IFRS S2. This shift reflects a global trend where investors increasingly assess companies based on their ESG performance and climate resilience. For public companies in Hong Kong, strong ESG management can enhance reputation, attract investment, and build stakeholder trust, while weak ESG governance can lead to compliance risks and erode investor confidence.

Beyond meeting regulatory requirements, integrating ESG and climate risk management offers tangible business benefits. Proactively addressing environmental and social risks can result in cost savings — such as through improved energy efficiency — enhanced operational resilience, and better access to sustainable finance. Companies with credible ESG strategies often enjoy higher valuations and find it easier to raise capital, as they align with the criteria of ESG-focused investors and lenders. In essence, ESG consulting in Hong Kong firms like GreenCo not only help businesses comply with HKEX ESG reporting guidelines but also enable them to harness ESG as a driver of long-term value creation.

Comprehensive ESG Consulting and Reporting Services in Hong Kong

GreenCo provides comprehensive ESG consulting services tailored specifically for Hong Kong public companies and private enterprises. As a trusted specialist in ESG reporting consulting, GreenCo guides organisations through every stage of sustainability reporting and strategy development. Our approach ensures that each client’s ESG report is fully compliant with the appropriate framework, no matter it is the HKEX ESG Code or alignment with international standards such as the GRI Standards and IFRS S2. With GreenCo’s rigorous commitment to compliance, clients can rest assured that their ESG disclosures meet both regulatory expectations and industry best practices.

What truly sets GreenCo apart is its holistic suite of ESG consulting services. We go beyond producing reports — we help build the underlying ESG strategy and governance frameworks that give those reports real meaning. Key services include:

• ESG Strategy & Policy Development –

GreenCo assists in crafting ESG policies and integrating sustainability into corporate strategy and daily operations. We assist companies in establishing governance frameworks that embed ESG considerations at every level of decision-making, ensuring alignment with Hong Kong’s corporate governance norms and stakeholder expectations.

• Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality Assessment –

GreenCo identifies the ESG issues most relevant to your business and stakeholders. Through online surveys, face-to-face interviews, and physical workshops, we assist companies in engaging with both internal and external stakeholders to pinpoint the ESG topics that are truly “material” to the organisation. This ensures your ESG report focuses on what matters most — whether it’s carbon emissions, employee welfare, or supply chain management.

• Reporting & Disclosure –

GreenCo offers end-to-end support in preparing ESG / sustainability reports that comply with your selected framework, including the HKEX ESG Code and global reporting frameworks like the GRI Standards. From data collection to report compilation, we assist companies in producing clear and impactful sustainability disclosures.

GreenCo ensures that all required disclosures—environmental KPIs (energy use, waste, water), social KPIs (employment, health & safety, anti-corruption), and governance structures—are thoroughly addressed. Every report is meticulously reviewed against HKEX’s latest guidelines and international best practices to ensure completeness and quality.

• Climate Risk Assessment & IFRS S2 Disclosures –

As experts in climate related disclosures consulting, GreenCo assist companies in the identification and assessment of climate-related risks and opportunities. This includes conducting climate scenario analysis and financial effect analysis to understand how future climate scenarios (such as 2°C vs 4°C warming) could bring risks and opportunities that impact business operations, value chain and financial performance.

With quality working and analysis results, we help companies prepare climate-related disclosure in line with the four pillars of the IFRS S2 standard: governance oversight of climate issues, climate strategies, risk management processes, and measurable metrics and targets, including GHG emissions and carbon reduction targets. With GreenCo’s expertise, companies can stay ahead of the curve and prepare for compliance with HKEX’s New Climate Requirements.

• GHG Emissions Accounting –

A comprehensive GHG profile is crucial for meeting ESG reporting requirements and serves as a foundation for assessing performance and identifying improvement areas. This profile also helps organisations align with international frameworks, such as the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), supporting global carbon neutrality efforts in line with the Paris Agreement.

GreenCo’s team specialises in quantifying carbon footprints by accounting Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 emissions according to the GHG Protocol. By meticulously assessing emissions from direct operations, purchase energy use, and value-chain activities, companies can establish baselines and track their progress over time. We also guide clients in setting science-based targets to demonstrate meaningful climate action to investors and regulators.

• ESG Data Management & Assurance –

To streamline ESG reporting, GreenCo leverages advanced technology solutions, including custom ESG data collection apps and dashboards. These tools enable companies to efficiently gather ESG data across business units and track performance metrics in real time. Additionally, GreenCo can coordinate external assurance services through our partner Certified Public Accountants or internal expertise, verifying ESG data in accordance with standards such as ISAE 3000, adding an extra layer of credibility to your disclosures.

GreenCo acts as a one-stop partner for all ESG needs — from initial gap analysis and strategy formulation to crafting the ESG report and communicating credible results. We ensure that ESG reports are not just compliance exercises but powerful documents that tell your company’s unique sustainability story, resonating with investors, customers, and employees through highlighting your commitments and enhancements.

Commitment to Global Standards: HKEX ESG Code, GRI, IFRS S2, and More

GreenCo’s strength lies in its commitment to compliance with HKEX ESG guidelines and international standards. Navigating the complex landscape of ESG frameworks — HKEX’s ESG requirements, GRI Standards, IFRS S2, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and others — can be challenging. GreenCo’s expertise ensures that your ESG approach hits all the right notes with regulators and global benchmarks.

• HKEX ESG Guide (recently elevated to ESG Code) –

When drafting reports for our clients, GreenCo ensures full compliance with the HKEX ESG Guide / ESG Code, including all mandatory disclosure requirements and KPIs under the “comply or explain” provision. With the new ESG Code taking effect for the financial year starting January 1, 2025, we work closely with clients to incorporate more detailed climate-related disclosures in their annual reports that align with the mandatory New Climate Requirements, while also work with them on enhancing their climate management frameworks. This includes ensuring they have the competency to collect relevant information and have sufficient data to calculate mandatory Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions from 2025 onwards.

• GRI Standards –

GreenCo reckons that the GRI Standards are a globally adopted reporting framework, making them essential for companies seeking to align with international best practices. Over 78% of G250 companies use GRI for their sustainability reporting, reflecting its credibility and relevance.

As a long-time member of the GRI Community, GreenCo employs GRI Certified Sustainability Professional to ensure a thorough understanding of the standards and compliance in report preparation. Our extensive experience with listed companies enables us to create reports that simultaneously meet stock exchange requirements and GRI standards. This integrated approach eliminates the need for multiple documents, centralising sustainability reporting into a single annual submission.

By leveraging GRI Standards, we help clients produce reports that comply with local HKEX guidelines while appealing to global investors through transparent and comparable disclosures.

• IFRS S2 –

GreenCo is fully aware of the newly published IFRS S2 standards, which enhance climate-related disclosure requirements by necessitating more detailed quantitative information. This includes insights into how future climate scenarios may impact companies, as well as financial information affected by climate risks and opportunities. These enhanced requirements raise the bar for global disclosures, with many jurisdictions, including the Hong Kong and Singapore stock exchanges, integrating IFRS S2 into their regulations.

Equipped with a multidisciplinary team of experts, GreenCo is well-positioned to assist you in navigating these complex requirements. Our consultants not only specialise in environmental science but also bring financial expertise and accounting backgrounds, ensuring that companies can confidently disclose their reports in accordance with IFRS S2 standards — an essential requirement in many regions.

Having successfully guided companies in preparing disclosures aligned with TCFD — on which IFRS S2 is largely based — GreenCo offers comprehensive support. We assist in building robust climate management frameworks, starting from refining governance structures to identifying, assessing, and prioritising climate risks. Our services extend to developing transition plans, conducting climate scenario analyses for assessing resilience, and performing financial impact analyses to understand both current and anticipated effects.

Moreover, we help companies develop comprehensive metrics, including Scope 3 emissions accounting, ensuring that your disclosures are backed by strong evidence and thorough analysis.

• Other International Standards –

In addition to GRI and IFRS S2, GreenCo is well-versed in various international frameworks, including SASB (Sustainability Accounting Standards Board) for industry-specific metrics, the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for aligning corporate actions with global sustainability initiatives, and UNPRI reporting requirements for funds, as well as other European directives.

Our strength lies not in geographical boundaries but in our familiarity and ability to interpret these international standards and help companies prepare disclosures that meet the appropriate requirements efficiently and effectively. This extensive knowledge allows us to tailor ESG advice to fit the client’s specific context. Whether you aim to demonstrate alignment with the SDGs or comply with European ESG regulations, GreenCo can seamlessly integrate these elements into your reporting. Our team’s familiarity with multiple standards ensures that your company’s ESG reports and climate disclosures will withstand scrutiny from diverse stakeholders.

By leveraging its multi-framework expertise, GreenCo creates cohesive ESG / sustainability reports that are locally compliant and globally credible, enhancing your company’s standing with regulators, investors, and sustainability rating agencies.

GreenCo’s Outstanding Team and Proven Track Record in ESG Advisory

A consultancy is only as strong as its people, and GreenCo takes pride in its exceptional team, which boasts solid credentials in ESG and climate risk advisory. Since its establishment in 2016, GreenCo has built one of the top multidisciplinary teams in Hong Kong’s sustainability consulting sector. Our professionals hold advanced degrees and industry certifications span advanced academia, finance, environmental science, ensuring clients receive informed and practical advice. Notable credentials include PhD degree, CFA, CPA, GRI Certified Sustainability Professionals, EFFAS Certified ESG Analyst, Certificate in ESG Investing of CFA Institute, Practitioner Member of the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (IEMA), membership in the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP), and master’s degrees in environmental science. This breadth of expertise means GreenCo can address ESG issues from a wide range of angle – whether it’s quantifying climate impacts, evaluating ESG governance structures, or translating financial impacts of ESG risks.

Just as importantly, GreenCo has fostered a culture of quality and professionalism, gaining ISO 9001 certification in ESG Reporting, Sustainability and Climate Disclosure, and GHG Accounting Advisory Services. This accreditation reflects our commitment to rigorous quality management processes, providing clients with consistent, high-standard service. Every project undergoes thorough quality checks, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and continuous improvement. Our team actively participates in sustainability networks like the GRI Community and the Business Environment Council, demonstrating our passion to advancing ESG best practices.

Our top-tier talent and process excellence have resulted in a strong track record, with ESG consulting projects accomplished for over 70 listed companies across Hong Kong, mainland China, Singapore, and Korea, covering all industries under the Hang Seng Industry Classification System. This includes working with businesses in sectors such as finance, technology, manufacturing, utilities, consumer goods, and more. This broad experience enables us to quickly understand sector-specific ESG challenges, from supply chain labour standards in apparel to climate risks in energy-intensive sector, as well as governance and transparency issues in financial institutions.

Clients consistently praise our professionalism and impact. The Sustainability Director from a prominent listed company noted,

“GreenCo’s team possesses excellent technical knowledge and project management skills. They deliver top quality work well within tight timeframes and have great communication with clients.”

This testimonial highlights our responsiveness, insightful ESG expertise, and ability to meet aggressive reporting timelines without sacrificing quality. Our hands-on, client-focused approach ensures that we adapt to evolving regulations and unexpected challenges arise during a project, keeping projects on track and deliverables’ quality maintained. From conducting on-site educational and awareness workshops for client companies, to providing insightful recommendations for ESG performance improvement, GreenCo’s advisory approach is always built upon our commitment to achieving remarkable results.

GreenCo’s success stories highlight the transformative impact of our consulting engagements. We have guided companies through their IPO journeys, helping them create their first ESG reports from scratch and establishing comprehensive ESG frameworks that lead them from zero experience to full compliance. For established conglomerates, we have also assisted them in enhancing their ESG ratings and sustainability rankings from global investment organisations like MSCI by identifying gaps and implementing best practices. Our expertise has also enabled clients to win prestigious ESG awards, such as the BDO Best in ESG Reporting, through improved reporting and performance.

Each project — whether it’s a comprehensive ESG report, a climate risk analysis, or an ESG strategy roadmap — contributes to GreenCo’s extensive experience, which we leverage for future engagements. With every success, we refine our methodologies and remain at the forefront of the industry, solidifying our position as a pioneering ESG consulting partner in Hong Kong’s market.

GreenCo vs. Other ESG Consulting Firms: Competitive Advantages

The ESG consulting landscape in Hong Kong is diverse, featuring various players from large consultancy firms, including the Big Four, to boutique agencies. While many offer sustainability advisory services, GreenCo stands out as the premier choice for companies seeking top-tier ESG consulting. Here’s how we differentiate ourselves:

• Specialised Focus on ESG & Climate –

Unlike other multi-service consultancies that treat ESG advisory as a secondary offering, GreenCo is dedicated solely to ESG, sustainability, and climate risk advisory. Our singular focus ensures that all our resources and expertise are concentrated on sustainability issues, allowing us to maintain a deep understanding of evolving ESG trends. Our team is fully immersed in the ESG field, delivering cutting-edge, tailored advice that meets the unique needs of our clients.

• Certified Quality and Credibility –

GreenCo is one of the few ESG consultancies in the region to achieve ISO 9001 certification for its advisory services. This prestigious recognition underscores our commitment to quality management and sets us apart from competitors. Additionally, our active involvement in global sustainability organisations, including the GRI Community and possession of consultants obtaining certifications such as GRI Certified Sustainability Professionals, Certified ESG Analyst and CFA certification in ESG Investing, enhances our credibility. Clients can trust that our recommendations are based on globally recognised standards and methodologies, providing reassurance to board members and investors alike.

• Elite Team with Multi-Disciplinary Expertise –

While many advisory firms have capable consultants, GreenCo’s team is unparalleled in its credentials. Our blend of PhD-level knowledge, financial expertise (CFA charterholders), environmental science backgrounds, and accounting/audit proficiency for ESG assurance is unique in the market. This multi-disciplinary approach allows us to deliver holistic advice, integrating scientific, financial, business, and compliance perspectives into one cohesive solution. While competitors may excel in specific niches, GreenCo covers the entire spectrum with top talent, ensuring every aspect of your ESG programme is expertly managed.

• Extensive Track Record & Client Trust –

With over 70 listed companies across diverse industries, GreenCo boasts a scale of experience that many competitors have yet to achieve. Our robust track record means we have navigated a wide range of ESG reporting scenarios and challenges, successfully delivering effective solutions. New clients can benefit from our extensive repository of knowledge and best practices. The glowing testimonials and high client retention rates reflect our ability to deliver tangible value. In contrast, while some newer ESG consultancies may offer lower fees, they often lack a proven history and extensive case references. GreenCo’s established reputation gives us a distinct advantage in understanding what truly works for companies.

• Comprehensive Service & Support –

GreenCo provides end-to-end solutions, from initial ESG framework setup to ongoing reporting, data management tools, and long-term goals establishment. For instance, we don’t just create ESG reports; we implement robust data collection systems and offer capacity-building training for your team. Leveraging our insights gained during the reporting project, we can also help you establish long-term ESG goals, such as conducting comprehensive carbon emissions profile analysis and develop a tailored carbon neutrality roadmap that aligns with national and local ambitions while assessing feasibility for the company based on its past performance.

Additionally, we assist asset managers and venture capital funds in developing ESG investment policies that align with UNPRI commitments. We create ESG checklists and tools to support investment decision-making and help prepare UNPRI reports to enhance their ratings through effective disclosure.

This one-stop approach provides a strong advantage over niche consultants who may focus solely on reporting or strategy. Clients can rely on GreenCo as a long-term partner to guide their ESG journey, fostering continuity that leads to a deeper understanding of your business and consistent progress toward sustainability goals.

• Local Insights with International Perspective –

Headquartered in Hong Kong, with a branch office in Singapore, GreenCo possesses intimate knowledge of the local regulatory landscape, including the requirements and expectations of the stock exchanges in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen and Singapore. In contrast to global firms that may overlook these nuances, our local expertise ensures compliance with regional requirements. Simultaneously, our understanding of international standards (such as GRI, TCFD, and ISSB) allows us to align client strategies with global investor expectations. Our dual perspective empowers our Hong Kong and Asian client companies to compete on the international stage in terms of ESG performance and disclosure.

In summary, GreenCo’s competitive edge lies in our dedicated focus, commitment to quality, expert team, rich experience, comprehensive services, and balanced local-global outlook. These factors collectively position GreenCo as a leader among ESG consulting firms. For Hong Kong public companies and large organisations that cannot afford to take risks with ESG and climate reporting, GreenCo offers unparalleled reliability and excellence in the market.

Drive Sustainable Success with GreenCo – Engage Our ESG Consulting Services Today

As the significance of ESG and climate risk management grows in both Hong Kong and the global corporate landscape, selecting the right advisory partner becomes essential. GreenCo is that partner—combining deep expertise, proven experience, and a passion for sustainability to help your business thrive. By engaging GreenCo’s ESG consulting services, your company will receive step-by-step guidance in enhancing ESG performance, ensuring compliance with emerging regulations, and effectively communicating your sustainability story to investors, customers, and the public.

For Hong Kong companies, the clock is ticking on new ESG and climate disclosure requirements. Don’t wait until the last minute to tackle these challenges. GreenCo recommends companies to start preparing now for the upcoming HKEX New Climate Requirements on climate-related disclosures, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Whether you need to develop a robust ESG framework and policy, conduct a climate risk assessment, or compile a comprehensive ESG report, our consultants will tailor their approach to meet your specific needs and deliver results that exceed your expectations.

Now is the time to turn your ESG ambitions into action. Empower your organisation with the insights and support that only a leading ESG consultancy can provide. Contact GreenCo today to discuss your ESG needs. Let our expert team help you navigate the complexities of sustainability requirements and unlock new opportunities for your business. Together, we can achieve compliance, build resilience against climate change, and drive sustainable success in a rapidly evolving market.

Make the smart choice for your company’s future—partner with GreenCo and lead the way in ESG excellence.