The importance of ESG in managing reputation risk for fleets
Managing fleet risk in a new era of accountability
Reputation risk once sat mainly with large corporations, focused on avoiding catastrophic incidents or negative publicity. Especially in today’s digital environment, organisations are more visible than ever. Customers, employees and investors all expect transparency, ethical behaviour and accountability.
Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance is now an essential part of fleet risk management. The way a business manages its vehicles, energy use and driver behaviour reflects directly on its reputation and credibility.
Online reviews, social media and increased access to information mean even small missteps can affect brand perception. Building a well-managed fleet is no longer just about cost or compliance; it is about earning trust.
ESG as a driver of trust and performance
ESG principles are now central to how organisations measure success. Stakeholders want to see visible commitments to sustainability, inclusion and governance.
Recent research from PwC’s Digital Trust Survey 2025 found that more than 84 percent of consumers prefer to buy from companies demonstrating responsible ESG practices, while 87 percent of employees are more loyal to employers that share their values.
Transitioning to low- and zero-emission fleet vehicles is one of the clearest demonstrations of meeting ESG goals.
Embedding ESG accountability in fleet policy
A fleet policy achieves strongest impact when aligned with broader sustainability and governance objectives. It should clearly define how environmental and social targets play out in everyday fleet decisions.
Key questions when updating fleet policies:
- Does the policy align with your company’s sustainability or net-zero goals?
- Are there clear guidelines for average CO₂ emissions or energy use per vehicle?
- How are driver safety, wellbeing and procurement ethics addressed?
- Are incentives offered to encourage low-emission vehicles or better driving?
- Is data being collected and reported to track ESG progress?
Integrating ESG considerations signals to regulators, investors and customers that sustainability is core business, not a side initiative.
Engaging employees in the sustainability journey
People are central to ESG success. Fleet transitions are most effective when employees are engaged from the start.
Interleasing works with clients to understand driver attitudes, especially towards electric and hybrid vehicles, using tailored surveys and two-way feedback. This insights-led approach uncovers barriers to adoption and helps craft effective communication programs.
Supported employees are more likely to embrace fleet sustainability measures, reduce fuel use and act as ambassadors for responsible business.
Building long-term resilience
ESG integration is a continuous process. Measuring progress, accurately reporting data and reviewing results are now standard expectations from regulators and stakeholders.
Companies that act early gain advantages in trust, market positioning and readiness for changing compliance requirements. Whether lowering fleet emissions, improving supplier standards or enhancing safety, every step strengthens long-term reputation.
For practical guidance, download the National Electric Vehicle Strategy and explore how to benchmark your fleet, plan for transition, and embed sustainability into your long-term vision.