For-profits ahead of non-profits on ESG

Survey finds for-profits on top for sustainability initiatives

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For-profit companies place more importance on sustainability and diversity programs than non-profits, according to a recent survey by PNC.

Some 70% of for-profit business leaders said social responsibility across the board is a very high priority, compared with 59% of non-profit leaders, the survey found. Meanwhile, 23% of for profits said it was somewhat important, as did 32% of non-profits.

Of those that indicated that social responsibility was important, 32% of for profits said environmental sustainability was their top concern, followed by diversity, equity and inclusion (22%) and employee benefits (13%). Sustainability was also the most common top concern among non-profits, at 19%, ahead of ethical business practices (10%) and community development and outreach (10%).

For-profit groups were also more likely to have sustainability initiatives or programs than non-profits, at 79% versus 67%. Additionally, 76% of for profits indicted they have DEI programs, while 59% of non-profits said so.

PNC commissioned a survey in December of 120 for-profit executives and 120 non-profit leaders. Most of the entities had annual revenue of $50m or more, according to the report.