3-11. Corporate Brand and EHS: Gaining Trust from Consumers and Investors

The value of a corporate brand is heavily influenced not only by the quality of its products and services but also by the extent of its commitment to EHS (Environment, Health & Safety) and social responsibility. In recent years, consumers and investors have placed significant importance on a company's EHS performance, which directly impacts trust, purchasing decisions, and investment judgments. Integrating EHS activities into your brand strategy is therefore essential for achieving sustainable growth.

1. How Consumers Evaluate EHS Commitment

Consumers who are sensitive to environmental and human rights issues pay close attention to how companies manage resources, protect their employees, and fulfill their social responsibilities. Specific actions such as using renewable energy, reducing CO2 emissions, improving working conditions, and providing safe products have become crucial criteria in their purchasing decisions. Companies that promote a sustainable stance are more likely to gain consumer support, while EHS misconduct can instantly trigger boycotts and criticism on social media.

2. The Importance of EHS for Investors

From an investor's perspective, a company that neglects EHS risks is seen as carrying "potential financial risks." With the expansion of ESG investing, in particular, companies with frequent environmental liabilities or workplace accidents are increasingly being excluded from investment portfolios. Conversely, companies that actively engage in EHS are evaluated as being capable of "sustainable corporate value creation," which has a positive impact on their stock prices and capital procurement costs.

3. EHS Activities That Directly Boost Brand Value

By incorporating EHS activities into a brand strategy, a company can establish a competitive advantage in the market as a "trusted brand." For example, obtaining certifications like ISO 14001 or ISO 45001 is an effective way to gain international credibility. Furthermore, transparent information disclosure based on international standards such as GRI and SASB strengthens trust from both consumers and investors.

4. Smart Communication Strategies

It's not enough to simply engage in EHS activities; it is also crucial to communicate the results clearly. In addition to publishing information in sustainability reports and on websites, integrating your EHS stance into social media and advertising campaigns can raise awareness among a wider audience. By showcasing actual data and improvement results, a company is perceived as an "organization that acts on its words," which leads to greater trust.

5. Future Outlook

As international obligations for climate action and human rights due diligence advance, EHS activities will not just be a "defense for protecting the corporate brand," but also an "offensive strategy for growing the brand." The standards consumers and investors expect from companies are becoming stricter each year, and a sincere commitment to EHS is a key brand differentiator.

EHS is positioned at the core of a corporate brand. By taking proactive steps and communicating with transparency, a company can build strong trust with consumers and investors, leading to sustainable growth.