At The Common Ones, we understand that the journey toward sustainability isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. For entrepreneurs, organizations, and small businesses committed to making a difference, understanding where you stand and what steps to take next is vital. That’s why we’ve introduced the Circle In Readiness Test—a practical tool to evaluate and improve your Circular practices across key dimensions.
As Certified B Leaders, The Common Ones brings a unique perspective to supporting businesses in their sustainability transformation. Our expertise ensures that your organization is equipped to align its operations with ESG standards, adopt circular economy principles, and drive meaningful impact.
This assessment is designed to help organizations reflect on their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) efforts and identify gaps. Here’s a closer look at what it entails:
How It Works: The Scoring Framework
The assessment uses a simple scoring system to gauge progress:
1 – Not started – No plans or actions in place.
2 – Early stages – Initial discussions or minimal efforts underway.
3 – Progressing – Active implementation, but not yet consistent or comprehensive.
4 – Almost there – Majority of goals achieved, with minor gaps
5 – Fully implemented – Fully operational, with measurable results and evidence of success.
With these clear benchmarks, organizations can evaluate their maturity in four key areas of ESG readiness:
1. Governance & Strategy
A strong foundation starts with governance. Sustainability must be woven into the fabric of your company’s strategy and leadership.
Key Questions:
- Does your company have a documented sustainability/ESG strategy?
- Are sustainability goals integrated into business objectives?
- Is there clear accountability for sustainability initiatives at the leadership level?
A high score in this section reflects clear alignment between sustainability priorities and your business’s overarching vision, ensuring accountability at every level.
2. Environmental Impact
The environment is at the heart of ESG. Tracking and reducing your organization’s ecological footprint is essential for long-term resilience.
Key Questions:
- Do you measure and track your environmental footprint (e.g., energy, water, waste, carbon emissions)?
- Have you implemented circular economy practices, such as:
- Designing products for longevity or recyclability
- Reducing waste through innovative programs
- Establishing resource recovery systems
This section carries the most weight, emphasizing the importance of tangible efforts to address environmental challenges.
3. Social Responsibility
A business’s impact on society is equally critical. Promoting fairness, inclusivity, and engagement within your organization and community strengthens long-term trust and growth.
Key Questions:
- Do you have policies promoting:
- Diversity and inclusion?
- Fair labor practices?
- Community engagement?
- Do you engage with stakeholders on sustainability issues?
A strong social responsibility score reflects a commitment to equity, transparency, and shared value creation.
4. Supply Chain & Partners
Sustainability extends beyond your organization. Evaluating and collaborating with suppliers and partners amplifies your impact across the value chain.
Key Questions:
- Do you assess suppliers’ sustainability practices?
- Do you collaborate with partners on sustainability initiatives?
This section encourages businesses to think beyond their operations, fostering a culture of collaboration for broader systemic change.
Why ESG Readiness Matters
For businesses today, ESG isn’t just about compliance—it’s about creating lasting value. By understanding your current position, the Circle In: Readiness test allows you to take actionable steps impacting the environment and society.
Join Us on the Path to Sustainability
At The Common Ones, we believe in supporting organizations as they navigate the complexities of sustainability. Whether you’re just starting your Circular – ESG journey or looking to refine your strategies, the Circle In Readiness test is a great tool to guide you forward.
Are you ready to take the first step? Let’s work together to build a future that balances profit with purpose.
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