Zhong Guo Zheng Quan Bao·2025-10-12 20:53Core Insights - The ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) evaluation system is reshaping corporate value, with the environmental dimension (E) being central to "green value" [1] - Companies are increasingly focusing on environmental protection and carbon neutrality as key points for brand communication and product value enhancement [1][2] - Investors are showing heightened interest in companies' ESG practices and the tangible outcomes of their "green value" initiatives [1][2] Investor Concerns - There has been a noticeable increase in investor inquiries regarding environmental protection and ESG on platforms like Shanghai Stock Exchange's e-Interaction and Shenzhen Stock Exchange's Interactive Easy [1][2] - Specific questions from investors include inquiries about companies' environmental investments, compliance with environmental assessments, and management of new pollutants [1][2] Corporate Initiatives - Companies like Anta Sports and Honor have set ambitious carbon neutrality goals, with Anta aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050 and Honor targeting the same for its value chain [1][2] - Anta has reported that over 30% of its products will be sustainable by 2024, with several products achieving carbon neutrality certification [1] - Other companies, such as Master Kong, are launching environmentally friendly products and reducing plastic use in packaging [2] Greenwashing Risks - Experts warn about the risks of "greenwashing," where companies may exaggerate or misrepresent their environmental efforts [2][3] - Specific examples include Apple removing carbon neutrality claims from its product marketing following legal scrutiny [2] Regulatory Environment - There is a lack of specific regulations against "greenwashing" in China, with existing laws focusing on truthful disclosure and advertising [5] - New standards for carbon neutrality and related concepts are being introduced to provide clearer guidelines for companies [5] Internal Governance - Companies are encouraged to strengthen their internal governance systems to prevent "greenwashing," with some linking executive compensation to environmental performance [6] - Establishing a robust ESG management framework and ensuring compliance with international disclosure standards are critical for companies [6][7] Information Disclosure - Clear, truthful, and verifiable environmental claims are essential for companies to avoid "greenwashing" accusations [7] - Companies should implement multi-dimensional control mechanisms, including management accountability and rigorous data management systems [7]