Launch of new GRI guide on using policy to enable transparency: With rising policy measures across global markets in support of responsible business conduct, GRI has launched a new publication to set out how policymakers can use the power of transparency to affect positive change.
The GRI Standards: A Guide for Policymakers
is an introduction for anyone in a public policy role to understand why
and how corporate reporting can support sustainability ambitions. It
has been developed with financial support from the Swedish International
Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), a strategic partner for GRI’s
engagements with policymakers.
The publication follows recent findings of a substantial increase in
sustainability reporting provisions and regulations around the world. Carrots & Sticks 2020
revealed that the number of sustainability reporting policy instruments
have increased to 614 in 84 countries, a rise of 37% since 2016. More
than one in four of these provisions directly reference GRI.
The Guide for Policymakers sets out:
- The role of public policy in enabling transparency – and why public sector organizations need to lead by example
- The scope and structure of the GRI Standards, and how they support reliable sustainability reporting
- How GRI collaborates with policymakers to increase reporting uptake around the world
Sustainability reporting is important as a companies’ operations
can be assessed and evaluated from the sustainability angle. This is an
area which is undergoing substantial development. The GRI Guide is
therefore welcome, as it is a starting point for policymakers to engage
with reporting and understand the benefits of transparency.
I am proud of Sweden’s partnership with GRI, through Sida and
participation in the GRI Governmental Advisory Group. I hope this new
publication will gain traction with policymakers around the world,
helping them work more closely with the private sector to secure
progress towards sustainable development.”
Cecilia Ekholm, Sweden’s newly appointed Ambassador for Sustainable Business
Policymakers have an important role in encouraging consistent
disclosure by companies on their sustainability performance. That is why
we work closely with governments to embed best practice sustainability
reporting into policy development. To date, 67 countries have adopted
policies that reference or require use of the GRI Standards.
The increase in reporting provisions in global markets mirrors the
growing trend, both voluntary and mandatory, in sustainability
reporting. I am confident that our new guide will introduce more
policymakers to the benefits of transparency and the opportunities to
engage businesses in addressing sustainability challenges.”
Peter Paul van de Wijs, GRI Chief External Affairs Officer
GRI provides a crucial link between business and policymakers,
both globally and at the national level, delivering the platform for
corporate sustainability impacts to be communicated and understood. This
in turn increases the participation of companies, large and small, in
contributing to sustainable development. This is of particular
importance in relation to and in developing countries.
Sida has a long-standing partnership with GRI, with a focus on how
reporting can be used to drive business that is socially, economically
and environmentally sustainable while anchored in human rights.
Therefore, I welcome this new publication, which articulates the
relevance and application of sustainability reporting to governments and
policymakers around the world.”
Anders Gerdin, Program Manager in Sida’s Department of International Organizations and Policy Support
GRI and Sida are collaborating through the Responsible Business for Sustainable Development
program. This five-year partnership integrates sustainability
disclosures in policymaking and organizational business strategy, to
catalyze action towards the SDGs.
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