BSR Insight | Trends in Voluntary and Mandatory Reporting
About the Author(s)
Elissa Goldenberg, Associate, Advisory Services
Publication Date
July 6, 2010
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A new report from the Global Reporting Initiative and others gives an overview of mandatory and voluntary approaches to sustainability reporting and assurance in 30 countries. It also explores the advantages and disadvantages of mandatory and voluntary approaches, and describes selective legislation, codes, standards, and guidelines at the global, regional, and country levels.
Key trends noted in this report include:
- The increasing number of companies reporting reflects a growing set of national and international standards for sustainability reporting.
- There is a stronger role for the state in ensuring minimum levels of disclosure.
- There is a growing emphasis on how voluntary and mandatory approaches can complement one another. For example, regulators can increase minimum reporting requirements while still leaving room for voluntary disclosure and innovation.
- More companies are integrating corporate governance, financial, and sustainability reporting into a single framework.
For different viewpoints on this subject, read BSR's debate on mandatory versus voluntary reporting.
About the Author(s)
Elissa Goldenberg, Associate, Advisory Services
With four years of sustainability communications expertise, Elissa works with BSR member companies in a range of sectors—including those in information and communications technology; food, beverage, and agriculture; energy; and consumer products—on various sustainability issues including reporting, stakeholder engagement, and human rights... Read more →
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