Time estimator
How long will your ESG report take?
Probably less time than you think. Pick the option that sounds most like your business to see a realistic estimate and exactly what to have nearby.
Your estimate
Pick the option closest to your business and we will tell you how long it takes and what to have ready.
Most small businesses finish in under 30 minutes. Sole traders are often done in 10.
Typical times at a glance
| Business type | Typical time | Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Sole trader working from homeConsultants, designers, developers, coaches | 10 to 15 minutes | Around 30 short questions |
| Sole trader or freelancer in a co-working spaceA desk at a WeWork, Regus or local hub | 10 to 15 minutes | Around 35 short questions |
| Small team in a co-working or serviced officeStartups and agencies with 2 to 25 people | 15 to 20 minutes | Around 40 questions |
| SME with its own office and no vehiclesProfessional services, tech firms, studios | 20 to 30 minutes | Around 50 questions |
| SME with vans, cars or regular staff travelTrades, field services, consultancies on the road | 30 to 45 minutes | Around 55 to 60 questions |
| Shop, cafe, workshop or product businessRetail, hospitality, makers and manufacturers | 30 to 45 minutes | Around 55 to 60 questions |
Four ways to finish even faster
Have one recent bill open
An electricity or gas bill gives you a measured figure in seconds. No bill? The floor area estimate works perfectly well.
Pick a recent 12 months
Your last financial year is usually easiest, because the bills and records already line up.
Estimate and keep moving
You can come back to any answer. A sensible estimate now beats a blank field later.
Do it in two sittings if you like
Your answers save automatically, so you can stop and pick up later.
Common questions
How long does an ESG report take for a small business?
With ESG Now, most small businesses finish in under 30 minutes. A sole trader working from home or in a co-working space can be done in 10 to 15 minutes. Businesses with vehicles or their own premises usually take 30 to 45 minutes.
Why does a co-working business finish faster?
Your co-working provider looks after heating, bins and water, so there are no utility bills to find. We estimate your share of the building from your desks and the days you use them.
What slows people down?
Hunting for exact figures. If you do not have a number to hand, choose the estimate option and carry on. Your report will label it clearly as an estimate.
How long would a consultant take?
It varies with the consultant, the size of the business and how quickly data can be gathered. There are usually a few meetings and some back and forth before the final report arrives.
Your first report is free.
Get your ESG report done today
Answer plain-English questions about how your business runs. You get your carbon footprint, a shareable ESG report and a clear list of next steps.
- First report free
- No card needed
- Saves as you go