ESG criteria encompass a broad range of environmental, social, and governance issues that can affect an investment's performance. From an environmental perspective, this includes considerations around how a company performs as a steward of nature. Social criteria examine how it manages relationships with employees, suppliers, customers, and communities. Lastly, governance deals with a company’s leadership, executive pay, audits, internal controls, and shareholder rights. Integrating these criteria into deal structuring processes requires a comprehensive approach that begins with due diligence and extends through to post-merger integration.

Due diligence is the first step where ESG factors are assessed to identify potential risks and opportunities. This involves analyzing the target company’s compliance with environmental regulations, its social impact, and governance structures. Advanced analytics and ESG assessment tools can provide deep insights into these areas, helping investors make informed decisions. For instance, using AI and machine learning, companies can predict ESG risks associated with certain investments or markets.

Post-merger, the integration process should ensure that the acquired company aligns with the parent company’s ESG standards. This might involve implementing new policies or practices, investing in sustainable technologies, or reevaluating supply chains. The goal is to enhance ESG performance across the board, thereby improving the overall value of the investment.

Strategic Planning is crucial for successfully integrating ESG criteria into deal structuring. This involves setting clear objectives, identifying key ESG issues relevant to the business and the industry, and mapping out a strategy to address these through the deal process. Companies need to establish a framework for evaluating ESG factors that can be consistently applied across all deals. This framework should be flexible enough to adapt to different types of investments and sectors but robust enough to ensure comprehensive ESG integration.

One effective approach is to incorporate ESG metrics into financial models. This can help in quantifying the impact of ESG factors on the financial performance of the target company. For example, a decrease in carbon emissions can lead to cost savings through reduced energy consumption, while good governance practices can minimize the risk of fines or penalties. By embedding ESG metrics into valuation models, companies can better assess the true value of an investment.

Another key aspect of Strategic Planning is stakeholder engagement. Engaging with stakeholders early on can provide valuable insights into potential ESG issues and opportunities. This can also help in building trust and demonstrating a commitment to sustainable practices. Stakeholder feedback can be instrumental in refining ESG strategies and ensuring their successful implementation.

Several leading companies and investment firms have successfully integrated ESG criteria into their deal structuring processes. For example, BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager, has made sustainability central to its investment approach. The firm has committed to integrating ESG information into its investment processes, including due diligence and portfolio construction. BlackRock’s approach underscores the growing recognition among investors that ESG factors can significantly impact long-term risk and return profiles.

Market trends also indicate a shift towards greater ESG integration. According to a report by PwC, ESG-focused funds are attracting record levels of investment, with assets under management in sustainable funds hitting new highs. This trend is driven by increasing evidence that ESG investments can outperform traditional investments over the long term. Moreover, regulatory changes in various jurisdictions are making ESG reporting mandatory, further encouraging companies to integrate sustainability into their investment strategies.

In conclusion, integrating sustainability and ESG criteria into deal structuring processes is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic one. By embedding ESG considerations into due diligence, strategic planning, and post-merger integration, companies can mitigate risks, uncover opportunities, and create long-term value for stakeholders. As the business landscape continues to evolve, those that prioritize sustainability will likely emerge as leaders, setting new standards for responsible investing.