Overview

This package includes both the training and the post-training examination.

The Sustainability Excellence for Talent Certification Programme (SET)  is a comprehensive initiative designed to address the growing demand for sustainability expertise within the financial services and corporate sectors. This programme equips participants with essential knowledge in sustainability disclosures, climate risk management, and net-zero strategies. It focuses on aligning professionals with global and local ESG regulatory frameworks, such as IFRS S1/S2, GRI, and the HKEX ESG Code, while incorporating practical tools and case studies tailored to the local context.

This certification programme combines a structured training programme with a post-training examination, offering participants a seamless pathway to earning a Certificate of Completion in sustainability excellence.

What’s Included?
Access to 9 eSeminar and eCourse Modules:
- A modular training programme covering sustainability disclosures, climate risks, and net-zero strategies.
- Flexible learning options tailored to individual schedules and professional needs.

Post Training Examination:
- A 60-minute computer-based examination designed to assess knowledge and application of the programme content.

The examination is held every two months. Participants who enrol in this full programme MUST schedule their examination within 90 days of their enrolment date. Please refer to examination schedule for the post training examination date and Step 2 of the Scheduling Guide for detailed procedures.

If participants know in advance that they are unable to attend the examination on their scheduled date, they may reschedule to any available session within the 90-day period from their enrolment date. Rescheduling must be completed at least six full days before the originally scheduled examination session.

Note: Examination candidates must complete all nine months (as stated above) at least five calendar days before the scheduled examination date, otherwise they will not be allowed to sit for the examination.

Certificate of Completion:
- Participants who complete the training modules and pass the post training exam will earn the SET Certification, a mark of expertise in ESG and sustainability.

Objective

Upon completing the SET Certification Programme, participants will be able to:
- Understand ESG Reporting Frameworks: Navigate global and local sustainability reporting standards, including IFRS S1/S2, GRI, and the HKEX ESG Code, and apply them to organisational reporting.
- Identify and Manage Climate Risks: Recognise climate-related risks and opportunities, conduct scenario analyses, and integrate climate considerations into risk management frameworks.
- Develop Net-Zero Strategies: Calculate and consolidate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, including Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, and set science-based targets to achieve net-zero goals.
- Apply ESG Data and Ratings in Practice: Understand ESG rating ecosystems, address common pitfalls in reporting, and meet investor expectations.
- Gain Practical Insights: Apply real-world examples and case studies to align organisational practices with ESG best practices and regulatory compliance.

Content

This certification programme consists of:

A. 9 training modules divided into three core focus areas:
1. Sustainability Disclosures (4 Modules, 4 hours)
Introduction to IFRS S1 and S2
Introduction to HKEX Listing Rule – ESG Code
Introduction to GRI
ESG Data and Rating in Practice

2. Climate Risks (2 Modules, 2.5 hours)
Climate Risk Management in Practice
Scenario Analysis in Practice

3. Net Zero (3 Modules, 3.5 hours)
Introduction to GHG Emissions
Scope 3 Emissions (Financial Services)
Science-based Target Setting (Financial Services)

For details of each module, please refer to its respective course page.

B. Post-Training Examination
To earn certification, participants must complete the training modules and pass a one-hour, computer-based examination consisting of 40 multiple-choice questions with a pass mark of 70%.

Who should attend

This programme is ideal for:
- ESG practitioners
- Sustainability leaders
- Business advocates
- Aspiring ESG professionals

who are looking to gain comprehensive ESG knowledge, promote sustainable practices, and integrate climate and net zero considerations into their business operations.