Lack of Standardized ESG Reporting System Biggest Threat to Effective ESG Disclosures

Duff & Phelps, A Kroll Business, the world’s premier provider of governance, risk and transparency solutions, publishes research revealing almost half (45%) of valuation experts believe a lack of a standardized and recognized measurement system is the biggest threat to effective environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosures for businesses.

Highlighting the issues caused by the lack of a standardized system, respondents revealed they currently use a wide range of frameworks, with no single system having a clear majority. Amongst those surveyed there were 14 different combinations of frameworks used. Some of the most popular current ESG frameworks include Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) used by 33% of respondents, Sustainable Accounting Standards Board (SASB) at 32% and Task Force for Climate related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) at 25%. 

The survey was conducted in partnership with the International Valuation Standards Council (IVSC) to gain insight into what professionals working within the valuation space perceive to be the biggest threat businesses are facing in terms of effective ESG reporting, and the motivations behind effective change. 

Andrew Probert, Managing Director, Sustainability Accounting Advisory Services at Duff & Phelps, said: “Results dive into the challenges professionals are facing when it comes to effective ESG reporting. Of the frameworks available, all of which are currently voluntary guidelines, none give a comprehensive overview for ESG reporting, meaning many firms use more than one. With no consistent approach for reporting between firms, it is challenging for stakeholders to compare opportunities fairly and effectively."

“With this in mind, it is no surprise that nearly half of today’s respondents see the lack of standardized and recognized measurement system as the biggest threat to effective ESG disclosures for businesses. The G7 support for the TCFD ESG disclosure frameworks reflects the spirit of the time, but it’s the first step on a very long ladder towards standardization.”

"Until the TCFD, the IFRS Foundation’s Sustainability Accounting Standards or other Government-led regulations such as the European Commission’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive become mandatory, the need for enhanced due diligence, such as carbon audits, supply chain analysis and human rights violation investigations as part of an investment decision making process will only increase. It’s these measures which dig deep to instil confidence in stakeholders to ensure businesses are up-to-date with changing demand.”

Second to a lack of standardized system, 21% of respondents thought an indifference from business leaders was the biggest threat to effective ESG disclosures. Followed by limited checks on greenwashing (17%) and too much regulation (11%). 

Equally as diverse are motivations behind adopting effective ESG controls. Over a third (35%) of respondents said that better reputation was the primary driver for their ESG strategy and investment, almost a quarter (24%) pointed to an increase in company valuation. Interestingly, despite the positive impact on valuation which comes with effective controls, the third most common motivation was a sense of moral obligation (17%).

Andrew Probert concluded: “There’s a clear consensus that the status quo needs to change, so it is interesting to see many professionals still regard indifference from business leaders as a primary threat to effective ESG disclosures. Hopefully the noises coming out of the G7 leaders’ summit in Carbis Bay will start to alleviate this."

“The G7 backing for TCFD is important and if the framework becomes mandatory, it will combat the acknowledged threats of indifference and greenwashing. However, it’s important to remember that TCFD is just a framework, there is still a long way to go to implement comprehensive and standardized guidelines. The TCFD framework is also not without flaws – it’s a climate-first approach and fails to effectively target the social and governance aspects of ESG." 

“Without one standardized framework for reporting standards, we will continue to see firms mixing and matching various guidelines, hindering long-term process in the area. We’re still seeing high-profile cases of failed IPOs and increased divestment attributed to poor credentials in all areas of ESG."

“Despite concerns, the increased pressure on industry and government for effective ESG reporting is sparking positive change at all levels. As we look ahead to COP26, we hope to see the proposals from G7 for a mandatory and standardized ESG reporting framework ratified, setting the groundwork for an effective and reliable reporting system moving forward.” 

Note: The survey was conducted on 28 May 2021 at the IVSC’s event ‘Putting Value at the Core of ESG’. The data was gathered from a sample of over 150 respondents, comprised of valuation professionals.