Global ESG awareness grows, but true understanding remains limited

Over half of citizens globally (57%) claim to be familiar with the term “ESG” (Environmental, social, and governance), yet only 24% truly understand what it entails, according to SEC Newgate’s latest global survey.

The findings are part of the firm’s fifth annual global study, SEC Newgate 2025 Impact Monitor: Managing Reputational Risk and Opportunity in a Fragmented World. The research surveyed over 20,000 citizens across 20 countries, examining how corporate, political, and social institutions are addressing ESG and geopolitical challenges — and how these actions shape public perception.

In Hong Kong, awareness of ESG is notably high. Nearly 9 in 10 respondents (86%) said they were familiar with the term, and 42% claimed a good understanding — a figure that remains consistent with 2024 results.

Although ESG as a concept is still not top-of-mind for many, public interest is steadily growing. Once the term is explained, over a third (35%) of respondents express strong interest (scoring it 9 or 10 out of 10), marking a slight increase from the 2024 research.

In Hong Kong, public sentiment toward the transition to renewable energy is largely positive. Six in ten support the shift, while only 9% view it negatively — figures that have changed little since 2024. However, 35% believe the transition is moving too slowly, compared to 25% who think it’s too fast. The most common view (40%) is that the current pace is acceptable.

A strong majority of respondents agree that decisive national action on climate change and a shift towards clean energy are essential. Additionally, most say they would feel more positive about companies that adopt renewable energy (70% globally; 60% in Hong Kong) or demonstrate environmental sustainability (69% globally; 56% in Hong Kong).

Industries perceived as most responsible in Hong Kong include: banking and financial services (76%),  technology and telecommunications (73%), airlines (72%), healthcare (71%), energy and utilities (71%). 

Those seen as less responsible include: Bottom-performing industries conducting business responsibly in Hong Kong include alcohol (62%), automotive (61%), mining and resources (60%), agriculture (60%) and chemical industry (59%). 

While the public wants businesses to prioritise environmental considerations, there is hesitance toward bearing personal costs. Only about four in ten believe large businesses are doing enough in socially responsible areas such as employee welfare, community support, and integrating social issues into decision-making.

Public opinion is divided on whether businesses are getting it right when it comes to governance and stakeholder accountability. Over 70% feel that organisations should act in the best interests of all stakeholders, and not just shareholders.

Listening and responding to the needs of stakeholders and being open and transparent are the main areas where people would like to see more action in the Hong Kong, followed by communicating what they are doing to improve their performance on environmental, social and governance responsibilities.

Fiorenzo Tagliabue, group CEO of SEC Newgate, said: “Corporate reputation has shifted markedly over the past year. As political scrutiny and social expectations evolve, our Impact Monitor shows a clear pattern across markets: people judge companies by the real impact they deliver — particularly in the communities closest to their operations. This shift is redefining how organisations earn credibility and permission to operate.”

William Brocklehurst, managing partner of SEC Newgate China, added: “Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption is only going to grow. But businesses should take note of the fact that over a quarter of Hong Kong people believe that large businesses are doing too little in using AI in a way that benefits all stakeholders. Furthermore, 64% of the population in Hong Kong believe businesses should use AI in their operations only if it does not make their current staff members redundant. The results reveal that despite AI’s almost inevitable rise across society, the public here still expects to see careful consideration given to the impact on working people.”

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