Global Reporting Initiative: A vision for business to accelerate progress on the SDGs

09 January 2020

Business and policy representatives from around the world have shared their views on the changes needed to ensure companies can actively contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – and how reporting and partnerships supports this process.

How to strengthen links between business reporting and SDG contributions

• Regularly monitoring progress and reporting on SDG impact
• Linking SDG-related goals to business KPIs (key performance indicators)
• Take account of SDG-related priorities within materiality assessments

 

Partnerships: business and government

• Develop a common understanding on which SDGs are the priority at national or regional level
• Ensure clear and robust impact measurement
• Consider use of tax or other financial incentives

 

Partnerships: business to business

• Implement new systems that provide easier ways to identify SDG partners
• Establish shared goals, with a strong business case on both sides
• Share training and education programmes

 

What’s needed for effective leadership

• The ability to articulate a clear purpose supported by long-term goals
• A commitment to integrating the SDGs into corporate strategy
• Taking an adaptable approach to deliver on sustainability priorities

 

Sustainable business models that support SDGs impact

• A shift to a longer-term focus, within companies and in the wider corporate landscape
• Embracing new finance models – such as green bonds or social impact bonds
• Alignment of new business models with a company’s core competencies

Full press release on GRI

© GRI - Global Reporting Initiative