Introduction to Sustainability Reporting

This foundational masterclass introduces the fundamentals of sustainability reporting: what it is, why it matters, and how it fits into the wider global reporting landscape. Through a practical, expert-led session, you will explore the key stakeholders involved, the benefits and challenges businesses face when reporting, and how major frameworks and standards, including GRI, ISSB, and CSRD, relate to one another. Real-world examples from company sustainability reports are used throughout to show how these concepts apply in practice. The session is designed for professionals new to sustainability reporting, as well as those wanting to consolidate their foundational knowledge.

This masterclass provides a practical, expert-led introduction to sustainability reporting, covering its purpose, its key stakeholders, and how it fits within the broader global reporting landscape.

It focuses on applied learning, using real-world best practice examples from company sustainability reports to demonstrate how the concepts covered translate into practice.

You will learn how to:
◆ Explain what sustainability reporting is and why it matters
◆ Identify the key stakeholders involved and their interests
◆ Recognise the benefits and challenges businesses face when reporting
◆ Understand how major reporting frameworks and standards fit together

Learning Outcomes
By completing this masterclass, you will build a practical foundation in sustainability reporting, its stakeholders, and its place in the global reporting landscape.

Foundations of Sustainability Reporting
◆ Understand what sustainability reporting is and how it differs from financial reporting
◆ Identify the key stakeholders involved, including investors, regulators, employees, and the public
◆ Recognise why sustainability reporting has become a strategic priority for businesses

Benefits, Challenges, and Report Content
◆ Understand the key benefits of sustainability reporting for businesses and stakeholders
◆ Recognise common challenges businesses face when preparing sustainability reports
◆ Identify the core components of a sustainability report and how it is prepared

Reporting Landscape and Best Practice
◆ Understand how major frameworks and standards, including GRI, ISSB, and CSRD, fit together
◆ Recognise how sustainability information flows between companies, investors, and regulators
◆ Apply insights from real-world best practice examples to your own reporting context


Format
The Introduction to Sustainability Reporting masterclass is a single recorded session, approximately 1 hour in duration, and can be completed at your own pace.

Topics covered include:
- What sustainability reporting is and why it matters
- Key stakeholders, benefits, and challenges for businesses
- Sustainability report content and the global reporting landscape
- Key stakeholders, benefits, and challenges for businesses

Who This Is For
The Introduction to Sustainability Reporting masterclass is designed for professionals new to sustainability reporting, as well as those looking to consolidate their foundational knowledge:
◆ Sustainability and ESG professionals
◆ Sustainability consultants and advisors
◆ Finance and accounting professionals
◆ Risk and compliance professionals
◆ Corporate sustainability teams
◆ Professionals new to sustainability reporting