"ESG has become an integral part of corporate management, influencing various business areas," Fellner begins. He emphasizes that understanding ESG is no longer optional but essential for success in today's global landscape.

What is ESG?

Fellner breaks down the core components of ESG:

1. Environmental: Focuses on pollution, emissions, resource management, and climate change strategies.

2. Social: Encompasses fair labor practices, human rights, and community engagement.

3. Governance: Involves business ethics, transparency, and effective leadership structures.

There are several compelling reasons for integrating ESG into the ETIA program.It is important to prepare students for the evolving landscape of environmental technology and international affairs. The following points are crucial:

1. Regulatory Compliance: Increasing ESG regulations worldwide require graduates to be well-versed in these standards.

2. Market Demands: The growing expectation for transparency and commitment to ESG criteria from investors and customers.

3. Sustainable Development: The crucial role of ESG principles in developing eco-friendly processes and technologies, teaching students to evaluate and implement sustainable solutions.

4. Risk Management: The need for students to understand and assess risks from environmental disasters and technological impacts through an ESG lens.

5. Global Perspective: The importance of understanding global ESG trends for effective international relations and partnerships.

6. Innovation and Competitive Edge: The recognition that companies integrating ESG practices are often more innovative and competitive.

Fellner stresses that by addressing these aspects in the ETIA curriculum, they are equipping students to meet current expectations and thrive in an evolving market. "We're not just teaching theory," he explains, "we're preparing our graduates to be at the forefront of sustainable development and international cooperation."

ESG is not just a corporate trend but a fundamental shift in how businesses operate. ESG fosters sustainable business practices that reduce long-term environmental damage and social inequalities.

Furthermore, ESG serves as a powerful tool for risk and opportunity management, helping companies navigate environmental catastrophes, social unrest, or governance issues. Investors are increasingly recognizing that ESG-compliant companies often offer more stable, long-term profitable investments.

This understanding, Fellner argues, is driving the integration of ESG principles across industries and academic programs like ETIA.

"The growing importance of ESG reflects a broader awareness of the need to align economic growth with social justice and environmental protection," Fellner concludes. "At the MSc Environmental Technology and International Affairs, we're not just teaching concepts; we're shaping leaders who will drive this sustainable future."

As our interview ends, it's clear that programs like the MSc Environmental Technology & International Affairs at TU Wien are at the forefront of preparing the next generation of environmental and international affairs experts. By integrating ESG principles, they're ensuring their graduates are ready to tackle the complex challenges of our interconnected world.

Learn more about the program: 

>> MSc Environmental Technology & International Affairs

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