This course provides a foundational knowledge of the rapidly evolving ESG ecosystem - investigating the drivers, leading frameworks and data providers, approaches to ESG investing, corporate responses, and the complex interplay between key ESG stakeholders. Content will also cover topical ESG issues, such as climate risk, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Students will leave the course with a baseline understanding of how companies, investors, and third-party research providers are measuring and managing exposure to ESG risks and seizing opportunities for value-creation.

Biography

Hannah Cushing works directly with companies and investors to research, implement, and scale business solutions that mitigate sustainability risks and generate positive environmental and social outcomes. As a consultant at BSR, she manages a portfolio of projects related to climate risk and resilience and sustainable investing.

Previously, Hannah worked at Sustainalytics helping asset managers integrate ESG data into their investment strategies. At CDP (formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project), Hannah worked with companies to implement innovative climate risk management strategies, including internal carbon pricing, climate scenario analysis, and science-based emissions reduction targets. In the lead-up to the Paris Agreement, Hannah supported the World Bank’s Carbon Pricing Leadership Coalition, positioning carbon pricing as a key regulatory driver of greenhouse gas emissions reductions. Hannah holds a B.A. of Economics and Environmental Studies from Vassar College.