Our ESG Research Methodology
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Approach
Our ESG research methodology is based on one Framework and two dimensions, ESG Research Scope and ESG Rating
Framework
We only base our ESG research on PUBLIC INFORMATION, i.e. annual reports, sustainability/CSR reports, official websites only. Why? Because this is information that commits strongly the companies. Therefore it is important that the companies are explicit about ESG related information. New information is only taken into account when published through these official channels.
We are INDEPENDENT, this means we do our research and conclusions without being influenced by either companies or investors.
We are CERTIFIED, our analysts are certified through the EFFAS CESGA program.
Dimension – ESG Research Scope
In the initial work we seek to UNDERSTAND THE COMPANY INCLUDING THE SECTOR(S) they operate in and where they operate. This gives a rough guideline on the INHERENT ESG RISKS the company is exposed to. Combined with work on the GLOBAL MEGA TRENDS we IDENTIFY THE MATERIAL ESG FACTORS for the company. Going deeper into the company ESG research this is finetuned and we research HOW THE COMPANY HAS ADDRESSED THE MATERIAL ESG FACTORS and also other ESG factors. Our research then targets to IDENTIFY THE RESIDUAL ESG RISKS of the company that forms the base of our ESG RESEARCH CONCLUSION. In addition to this we also include many elements relative to EU regulation like SFDR (including PAI data) and EU Taxonomy.
Metholology update (version 7) – New in 2025 was mainly increased granularity for climate, nature and water risk, plus increased materiality for exposed sectors. See version update explanation here!
Dimension – ESG Rating
We RATE COMPANIES ON ESG, E, S and G based on rates we set on up to 169 DIFFERENT METRICS (V7, March 2025) where the selection depends on the relevant sector.
Our ESG ratings are absolute, but when we publish sector reports, we can also publish relative ratings to the group of companies researched for the specific sector report.
Our ESG ratings focus on MATERIAL ESG RISK FACTORS, that is they carry the most weight. This is differing on sector levels.
All research will have a small degree of subjectivity, the analyst doing the ESG research report will have a personal style, but we minimise this by ensuring our analysts have the CESGA FROM EFFAS. We have also developed an ESG RESEARCH METHODOLOGY with clear guidance that is used for all ESG research in the name of sustainAX.
Certified ESG Analysts by EFFAS
With certified ESG analyst qualification, we conduct ESG analysis of smaller, non-listed and private Nordic companies. Our analysts are certified through EFFAS’ CESGA.