Udemy is driving ESG learning as CEOs look for sustainable tax benefits

As industries around the world celebrate Earth Day, there are calls for greater sustainability and a push for environmental, social and governance (ESG) qualifications within companies. However, the implications extend beyond just preserving the planet, as CEOs now recognize the long-term tax benefits of integrating ESG into their daily activities, with 74% fully committed to this integrative approach, according to a KPMG survey .

Currently, Udemy, a global e-learning provider, is responding to this increasing need by offering more than 280 ESG-related courses, aimed at equipping organizations with a host of financial benefits, risk reduction capabilities and improved reporting practices.

The importance of ESG is increasing dramatically and its ripple effects are far-reaching. With greater transparency around carbon emissions, workforce policies and board composition, companies looking to strengthen their brand reputation while improving performance can do so through ESG considerations. McKinsey has reported that companies that link profitability to improved sustainability and ESG outperform their competitors and achieve higher shareholder returns. However, the journey to ESG integration also comes with challenges, as less than half of CFOs feel they have the necessary resources to meet changing reporting expectations.

According to Udemy’s Global Learning & Skills Trends Report, consumption of ESG courses has witnessed a surprising increase of 3,128% year over year. This growth indicates an increased demand for ESG courses that strengthen critical skills while improving brand reputation, mitigating risk and attracting ESG-focused investors.

In addition to emotional satisfaction, ESG skills development serves as an informed business call tied to improving long-term tax performance. KPMG’s research found that 74% of CEOs had fully integrated ESG into their business value creation practices, with 58% expecting significant returns from their ESG investments within the next three to five years.

Udemy’s 280+ ESG-related courses help companies create long-term financial plans that not only reduce costs and fuel growth, but also increase shareholder confidence. These programs also help companies understand new reporting structures and requirements, simplifying the identification of high-quality ESG measurement parameters. Additionally, these sessions help teams understand ESG’s connection to financial returns and investor satisfaction through strategies that promote diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces.

Consistent with its ESG course offerings, Udemy has been awarded the highest rank for the third consecutive year in the Internet Software and Services subsector as rated by Sustainalytics, a Morningstar company and a renowned ESG research, rating and data company. In addition, the e-learning giant has made extensive calculations for greenhouse gas emissions, illustrating its commitment to sustainability beyond daily business practices, in line with global sustainability goals.

The significant increase in the use of ESG courses and the resulting financial benefits underline the critical role of ESG skills in business success. It is a testament to how companies, on their journey to environmental responsibility, are using these learning opportunities to create long-term value and sustainably reorient their businesses to meet changing global demands.