Our ESG podcast series features short episodes covering core ESG concepts. Each podcast explores important issues for businesses that are concerned with developing and deploying an ESG profile, responding to increased scrutiny from regulators, investors and consumers regarding their environmental and social impact, and minimizing the potential legal and business risks that can be associated with ESG.

Media reporting on the ESG "backlash" has grown as lawmakers in some states pursue legislation to prevent government entities from doing business with investment firms and other businesses that consider environmental, social and governance factors in investing. Even the U.S. Congress has gotten involved by opposing a U.S. Department of Labor rule that allowed pension plans to consider ESG factors in their investment process. Has ESG became too hot to handle or is the backlash just hype?

Host David Colvin is joined in this episode by ESG Practice Co-Chair Karen Davis to discuss the practical effects and true extent of the backlash, as well the strategies companies are employing to remain above the fray. Karen and David also discuss upcoming initiatives by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and European regulators that will only increase businesses' need to monitor, analyze and report on their environmental, social and governmental impact in the future.

Listen to other episodes in this series.