This beginner-friendly course provides a foundational introduction to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and their critical role in addressing global environmental and societal challenges. Participants will explore ESG’s growing importance in business and policy, learn key terminology, and gain insights into major players in the ESG landscape. Designed for individuals across all roles and industries, this course equips learners with the knowledge needed to navigate the evolving world of sustainable practices and lay the groundwork for impactful ESG initiatives.
ESG Essentials for Sustainable Business
Grow your skills with Coursera Plus for $239/year (usually $399). Save now.
ESG Essentials for Sustainable Business
This course is part of ESG for All Specialization
Instructor: Duke Corporate Education
6,052 already enrolled
Included with
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
161 reviews
Beginner level
Recommended experience
3 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Discover ESG principles, their role in global challenges, and their growing impact on modern business.
Build fluency in ESG terminology and concepts to communicate effectively.
Identify key stakeholders driving ESG initiatives and shaping its landscape.
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Assessments
1 assignment
Taught in English
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
Build your subject-matter expertise
This course is part of the ESG for All Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
- Learn new concepts from industry experts
- Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
- Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
- Earn a shareable career certificate
There are 2 modules in this course
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.
Instructor
Instructor ratings
(51 ratings)Offered by
Explore more from Leadership and Management
The University of Hong Kong
IMD - International Institute for Management Development
Saïd Business School, University of Oxford
Corporate Finance Institute
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
Learner reviews
- 5 stars
79.62%
- 4 stars
16.66%
- 3 stars
1.85%
- 2 stars
1.23%
- 1 star
0.61%
Showing 3 of 161
PM
Reviewed on Nov 25, 2025
additional readings - some are available only after buying subscription. it should be available for free.
TW
Reviewed on Feb 11, 2026
It’s a really efficient course, I just did it in bed! However, it has really furthered my understanding.
MM
Reviewed on Aug 24, 2025
It's short but very informative. Good for beginners. There is also pointers to further reading. Highly recommend.
Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 10,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy