Introduction to ISSB Standards
In June 2023, the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) issued its inaugural global sustainability standards, marking a significant shift inregulatory frameworks worldwide. These standards aim to unify sustainability reporting, enhancing transparency and accountability across internationalmarkets.
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Global Response and Adoption
Early Adopters and Future Plans
By March 2024, five jurisdictions have already implemented the ISSB standards, either on a voluntary or mandatory basis. An additional 11 jurisdictions have committed to adopting these standards in the future. This widespread acceptance underscores the critical role of these standards in shaping global sustainability practices.
Diverse Implementation Strategies
Regulatory bodies are adopting varied approaches to integrate these standards, influenced by factors such as company size and market dynamics. The implementation timelines and compliance dates also differ, reflecting the tailored strategies jurisdictions are employing to align with the ISSB guidelines.
Focus on the Asia-Pacific Region
The APAC region shows a robust commitment to adopting ISSB standards. Countries including Australia, China, Japan, Hong Kong, India, New Zealand, Singapore, and Taiwan are either aligning their regulatory practices with ISSB or have already integrated these standards.
Case Studies in Regulatory Adoption
Singapore
Singapore plans to introduce mandatory climate-related reporting aligned with ISSB standards by 2025. This initiative, led by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) and the Singapore Exchange, targets enhanced environmental accountability. Listed companies will start reporting in 2025,followed by large non-listed firms in 2027, focusing initially on scope 1 and 2 emissions, with scope 3 emissions reporting phased in subsequently.
Bangladesh
In Bangladesh, the Sustainable Finance Department has set forth sustainability and climate-related disclosure requirements for banks and financial institutions.These disclosures, based on the ISSB's frameworks, will be phased in over three years, with initial reports due in 2025 and detailed disclosures by 2027.
Hong Kong
Starting from 2025, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange will require listed companies to comply with ISSB standards. Other regulatory bodies in Hong Kong are also collaborating with stakeholders to develop local standards that align with the broader ISSB framework.
Conclusion
The adoption of ISSB sustainability standards marks a significant development for corporations worldwide. These standards provide a crucial framework for corporate reporting. By adhering to these guidelines, companies can enhance their transparency, strengthen stakeholder trust, and position themselves competitively in an eco-conscious market. Embracing these standards is essential for businesses aiming to lead in sustainability and capitalize on opportunities in a greener economy.
