How can you choose the best reporting framework for your organization?

Lors d'une étude réalisée en 2021, j'ai observé que les acteurs financiers s'appuyaient principalement sur les Objectifs de Développement durable (ODD) et la Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). Ils utilisent aussi, dans une moindre mesure l'Impact Management Project (IMP), les Operating Principles for Impact Management élaborés par l'IFC, la base IRIS du Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN), le Global Compact Plus spécifiquement, sur le climat, le Carbone Disclosure Project (CDP), la Science-Based Targets Iniative sont les référentiels les plus usités L'arrivée du Green Deal européen va cependant inciter de plus en plus d'entreprises à reporter selon les European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) issus de la CSRD

When choosing the best reporting framework, it's important to consider industry comparability. Each sector may have specific reporting requirements. It's crucial to select a framework recognized in the industry that addresses material issues and expectations relevant to the sector in which the organization operates. For example, the sector-specific standards of the GRI.

Well outlined on comparing frameworks to identify optimal alignments. With GRESB emerging as a preeminent ESG benchmark for real assets, participating provides a competitive edge while allowing managers to integrate widely adopted reporting standards through a flexible modular submission. Frameworks can thereby build off one another to provide comprehensive and credible disclosure tailored to specific portfolio contexts, from standing investments to development pipelines. Pursuing certification also signals commitment to continuous improvement on areas like data coverage and verification - at least in my experience, this is the resonance from building certification and portfolio scoring institutions like GRESB, BREEAM, LEED, ECORE etc.

Apart from internal utility, external stakeholders are more concerned as return on your sustainability strategy matters only when it is valued by external stakeholders.

Agree completely on the need to continually refine frameworks as contexts evolve. For example, GRESB added granular asset-level water and embodied carbon modules this year to meet investor demand for enhanced environmental metric reporting. These institutions push the regulatory pressure to make sustainable businesses practices a must-have rather than a luxury. Meanwhile health and well-being modules track how managers create value for occupants through amenities and policies. As expectations rise, disclosures must expand across dimensions. This collaborative approach to advancing industry best practices maintains relevance.

Don’t forget that the government is a key stakeholder. Governments are increasingly looking to require certain sustainability reporting standards. Do engage the government to make sure your reports comply with what the government is looking to mandate.

Is there mandatory reporting in your place of jurisdiction? Does your company fall under the threshold stated by reporting laws, e.g., number of staff, turnover, assets? If not, do you have customers who have to report using the mandated reporting frameworks? Even if you don't have to report mandatorily, maybe your (key) customers have to and it would be important to understand the reporting regulations and standards to be able to provide the sustainability data of your company when being asked for.