Including Sustainability in Annual Reporting

Why should I include GHG emissions results and sustainability initiatives in our Annual Report?

The end of the financial year can be a busy time but including your sustainability efforts in your annual report doesn’t have to be overwhelming. What you share can be as simple or detailed as your time and resources allow.  However, leaving it out entirely can feel like ignoring the elephant in the room - It may raise questions about why you aren’t doing anything, when in fact you may have already taken meaningful steps toward positive change.

We’ve noticed an increasing number of organisations are including sustainability metrics, such as greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, alongside their financial performance. For many organisations, reporting GHG emissions is not just about compliance but a way to demonstrate leadership, build stakeholder trust, and stay competitive in a changing market.

Building trust by aligning with international standards.

Stakeholders, including investors, customers, and regulators, are increasingly expecting organisations to disclosure their environmental impact.  By reporting GHG emissions to an international standard (such as ISO 14064 or the GHG Protocol), you can demonstrate transparency. It also sends a signal that you are committed to sustainability.  This openness helps build trust, supports accountability, and can enhance your organisation’s reputation in a competitive and climate-conscious market.

Investors may factor in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria when making investment decisions. Companies that actively report and manage their GHG emissions can attract ESG-focused investors. Transparent GHG reporting can signal to investors that the company is proactive in managing its environmental risks, potentially making it a more attractive investment.

Drive operational efficiency

Measuring and reporting GHG emissions can uncover inefficiencies in a company's operations. Identifying and addressing these inefficiencies can lead to cost savings. For example, reducing energy consumption not only lowers GHG emissions but also decreases energy costs. By optimising resource use, companies can improve their bottom line while reducing their environmental impact.

Enhance your brand reputation

More and more, people want to know the impact of what they’re buying. If your customers can see that sustainability is weaved and integrated into your company values – not just a buzzword - this shows you’re a serious about doing better for the environment.  Sharing both your progress and your challenges also helps you stand out from competitors who may not be as open.

Prepare for the Future

The world is moving fast toward tougher environmental expectations. Businesses that start tracking and reporting their carbon emissions now won’t just stay ahead of regulations—they’ll also be better placed to grow and compete.

Many countries and regions require companies to report GHG emissions for their products, which is relevant for exporters to jurisdictions like the EU, where carbon taxes on imported goods are being established to create a fairer market. If you export goods, this matters even more. Regions like the EU are bringing in carbon-related tariffs, which means showing the carbon footprint of your products could soon be a requirement.

Conclusion

Adding GHG emissions results and sustainability initiatives to your annual report doesn’t just show that you care —It helps make your progress visible, gives context to where you’re heading, and shows stakeholders that you’re thinking ahead. Whether you're just starting out or already making strong strides, sharing this work helps build trust and shows you're serious about understanding the risks and opportunities that come with a changing world.

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