It is clearly evident that more transparency, accountability and engagement is still needed from companies when measuring and reporting on their environmental and social impacts. There is also a greater need for the digitalisation of not just sustainability reporting, but corporate reporting as a whole, that would enable these needs to be met.

Digital responsive reporting (not an interactive PDF) has already begun shaping the future of corporate reporting in Europe and will eventually be the trend if not requirement in Asia too.

A lot of time and resources are invested into putting together a sustainability report, but little or no effort is really put into what happens to the report once it is completed. Hence the current lack of transparency and communication of sustainability efforts with stakeholders.

The traditional forms of reporting such as print and PDF, are simply no match to digital responsive reporting. This is clear in the advantages that comes with this format of reporting:

• Enhanced Transparency: Interactive and visually appealing presentation of information enables users to explore data, access and compare detailed reports, understand the achievements and progress being made towards a company’s sustainability goals.
• Simplified Communication: Presenting data in a user friendly and navigable format, through engaging visuals, infographics and interactive elements enable stakeholders to grasp the content more easily and effectively.
• Engagement: Interaction through multimedia elements and easy to navigate reports leaves a positive experience and encourages stakeholder engagement. Leaving users with a positive experience, encouraging further interaction and a following of companies and their brands.
• Stakeholder Insight: Microsites allow for analytics, giving companies insight into stakeholder’s interaction with the content of reports. Giving even greater opportunities and ideas on how to continue engaging and communicating with the various stakeholders.
• Amplified Accessibility & Reach: Through a microsite a report and its content can easily be shared across various platforms. Giving a much great reach than beyond the traditional reporting formats, reaching more than just shareholders, such as customers, potential investors and the public.

Additionally, digital reporting can help streamline data management, reduce paper waste, and promote a more sustainable approach to reporting overall.