How do we connect CSR with our Net Zero or ESG goals?

Indian companies are under increasing pressure to align their CSR initiatives with Net Zero and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) commitments. With SEBI’s BRSR guidelines and global investor expectations rising, CSR is no longer a standalone obligation — it's a powerful tool to meet climate and sustainability goals.

CSR and ESG – Not Separate, But Strategic

Think of CSR as the execution arm of your ESG goals. While ESG is about measuring sustainability performance and risks, CSR is where companies act — especially in areas like:

• Clean energy access (supports SDG 7 & Net Zero targets)

• Water conservation and rejuvenation (supports ESG E-metrics)

• Waste management

• Livelihoods and inclusive growth (links to 'S' in ESG)

Use CSR Projects to Achieve Net Zero

In India, where over 75% of CSR spends are in rural areas, companies have the unique opportunity to contribute to Net Zero through community-led climate actions.

Some scalable examples:

✅ Solar microgrids in off-grid villages

✅ Tree-based agriculture or urban cool roof models

✅ Supporting low-carbon livelihoods in tribal belts

✅ Localized climate education through schools and women SHGs

Employees Want Meaningful Climate Action

A Deloitte survey showed over 59% of Indian Gen Z employees want their employers to act on climate.CSR-driven employee volunteering linked to ESG (like tree plantations, lake cleanups, or energy audits) boosts both engagement and impact.

What Corporates Should Do Right Now

🔹 Map your ESG goals with Schedule VII activities

🔹 Choose high-impact CSR themes aligned with Net Zero

🔹 Work with NGO partners who can deliver measurable results

🔹 Monitor and report using impact metrics — not just fund spends

🔹 Activate your employees — not just CSR teams

Let’s Make ESG Action Human — and Local

At Marpu Foundation, we believe in community-first climate solutions that serve both compliance and conscience. If you're planning your CSR budget for FY 2025–26 or setting ESG KPIs, it’s time to integrate both through smart, scalable models.

To make this happen, you can partner with experienced NGOs like Marpu Foundation — who understand both rural realities and boardroom expectations.

👉 To learn more or explore collaborations, visit www.marpu.org