A recent report from PwC states that international investors believe Irish businesses are making unsupported claims about their sustainability performance and are wary of the details included within corporate reports about sustainability. Many now want greater detail in corporate reports with regards sustainability performance, similar to what is seen in financial audits. The report found that almost two-thirds of foreign investors in Irish companies believe sustainability targets should be included in executive pay agreements. The report confirmed investors are increasingly interested in the governance, financial impact and commitment of companies’ net-zero transition plans.

As ESG continues to drive up the corporate agenda in board rooms across the country, we are starting to see a shift in approach with regards non-financial reporting. The EUs CSRD, and in particular the ESRS Framework, has helped to drive that shift in both thinking and approach. However, Boards of Directors need to be more aware of the importance of aligning their corporate messaging with their actual sustainability performance. More importantly, understanding the damage that can be done to their business if unable to support a claim or have to deal with an accusation of greenwashing.

The need for accurate and reliable ESG data is becoming critical. A company’s ability to support their sustainability claims, outline investment in net zero transition and demonstrate their governance across corporate, procurement and supply chain processes, is essential to satisfy investor requirements, ensure access to financial support, and confirm legislative and contractual compliance with all sustainability related clauses.

At SustainIQ, we are committed to helping our customers get full visibility of their sustainability performance by providing them with access to accurate and reliable ESG data in real time. We continue to watch as our customers embed sustainability into their strategies, position themselves as market leaders, build trust with their stakeholders, reduce risk of non-compliance, all while saving time and money.

To find out more information or arrange a demo of SustainIQ, email [email protected]