Strategic Focus: ESG Reporting Tools For Private Equity Firms

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Executive Summary

Private equity firms are under increased pressure from their investors and other stakeholders to report their sustainability metrics and to improve the sustainability performance of their portfolio companies. A growing number of private equity firms have begun publicly disclosing this information, either through an annual sustainability report or to groups that work to increase transparency and knowledge sharing in the industry, like the ESG Data Convergence Initiative (EDCI) or Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI). Private equity firms are increasingly using ESG data throughout the investment life cycle; this report provides an overview of the challenges they face when it comes to collecting and reporting ESG data during their hold period. It also details the types of digital solutions private equity firms can use to help alleviate some of these pain points.

Table of contents

ESG takes centre stage for investors
The case for ESG in private equity
Investors face unique challenges with regards to ESG reporting and data management
Software vendors are offering specific solutions to help investors

Table of figures

Figure 1. Simplified view of data exchange for private equity firms
Figure 2. Comparison of the PRI and the EDCI
Figure 3. How software can help private equity investors with ESG reporting

About the authors

Jessica Pransky

Principal Analyst
Jessica is a Principal Analyst in the Verdantix ESG & Sustainability practice, which she joined in 2022. Her current research agenda covers ESG reporting and data management software, ESG solutions for investors, and risk in ESG and sustainability. Prior to joining Verdantix, Jessica worked at Ramboll, focusing on ESG risk and opportunity identification for mergers and acquisitions, as well as EHS due diligence. Jessica has previously held roles evaluating water resource allocation for a state municipality and ensuring EHS compliance for GE Aviation. She holds a BS from Tufts University and an MEng from Johns Hopkins University focused on environmental engineering, as well as an MBA from Boston University.

Kim Knickle

Research Director, ESG & Sustainability
Kimberly Knickle is Research Director of the ESG & Sustainability practice at Verdantix. Her research areas encompass ESG regulations and reporting, ESG risk, supply chain sustainability, circular economy, social impact, and sustainable finance. Kim has worked for more than 20 years in the IT industry, providing research and analysis to help companies invest wisely in new technologies. Before joining the analyst industry, she held various roles in IT services, engineering and product safety testing, beginning her career at Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. Kim holds an MBA from Boston University and a BS in Electrical Engineering from Cornell.

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