The Development of Global Environmental and Social Reporting

Abstract

Current trends suggest that we are entering a new phase of reporting that places more emphasis on social responsibility, and yet there remains a significant group of companies that has still not got to grips with environmental reporting. While some companies produce fully electronic comprehensive reports of all their global social and environmental impacts, others are struggling to implement localised environmental management systems (EMS).

A survey conducted this year by csr network Ltd¹ gives an in depth analysis of the state of reporting today. Based on the survey, this article looks at the differences in approach and content across industry sectors. What drives some to expose their activities to the scrutiny of external verification while others are struggling to measure their energy consumption?

This article will highlight some of the findings of the survey: the how, the what and the who. In particular we will examine the changes in mediums of communication — how companies report-from hard copy report to the Internet. We will then illustrate the current trends in what is being reported and how this reflects company strategy and commitment to sustainability. And finally the article will give an idea who is doing what, by highlighting some of the industry sectors.