eu taxonomy Archives

Who Is the EU Taxonomy For?

Posted on August 22, 2023August 22, 2023 by Or Kadosh

22
Aug

In recent years, the global community has witnessed an increasing concern for environmental sustainability and the urgency to combat climate change. To address these issues, the European Union (EU) introduced the EU Taxonomy in 2020, providing a framework to classify economic activities based on their environmental impact. As of 2023, the EU Taxonomy has evolved into a critical tool for businesses across various sectors. In this blog, I will delve into the EU Taxonomy’s purpose, its intended audience, and the businesses to which it applies.

Intended Audience

The EU Taxonomy is intended for a wide range of stakeholders, each with different roles and responsibilities in promoting sustainability.

Enterprises:

One of the main audiences of the EU Taxonomy is businesses operating within the EU or conducting activities that impact EU member states. Businesses need to assess their operations against the Taxonomy criteria to determine whether their activities can be classified as environmentally sustainable. The EU Taxonomy applies to a wide range of businesses, from large multinational corporations to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The EU Taxonomy covers various sectors of economic activities, including energy, transportation, agriculture, manufacturing, and more. It encompasses both green activities, such as renewable energy production and energy-efficient technologies, and enabling activities, such as research and development in sustainable technologies.

Investors:

Investors, including financial institutions, asset managers, and private investors, are significant stakeholders in the implementation of the EU Taxonomy. They use the taxonomy as a guide to make sustainable investment decisions and ensure that their portfolios align with environmental objectives. As written by the European Union, “The EU Taxonomy is not a mandatory list for investors to invest in. It does not set mandatory requirements on environmental performance for companies or for financial products. Investors are free to choose what to invest in. However, it is expected that over time, the EU Taxonomy will encourage a transition towards sustainability in order to achieve the EU’s climate and environmental goals.”

Regulators:

EU member state governments and regulatory bodies play a critical role in enforcing and implementing the EU Taxonomy. They use the Taxonomy as a basis for setting regulations and standards related to sustainable finance and reporting.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Advocacy Groups:

Putting aside past controversy with NGOs, environmental NGOs and advocacy groups closely monitor the implementation and effectiveness of the EU Taxonomy. They advocate for its continuous improvement and ensure businesses and policymakers remain accountable for their sustainability commitments.

Compliance Requirements:

As of 2023, the EU Taxonomy is still being phased in gradually. Some businesses may have mandatory reporting obligations under the Taxonomy Regulation, while others might face voluntary reporting requirements. However, the trend indicates that the regulations will become more stringent in the future, affecting a broader spectrum of businesses.

Reporting and Disclosure:

Businesses falling under the scope of the EU Taxonomy need to disclose relevant information about their sustainable activities, investments, and environmental performance. This transparency helps investors and stakeholders assess their contributions to sustainable development.

Challenges of Complying with the EU Taxonomy

Before talking about the challenges it’s important to note the benefits. Businesses that comply with the EU Taxonomy can not only attract sustainable finance and investments from environmentally conscious investors, but also seize opportunities to fund and expand sustainable projects and initiatives. This, in turn, enhances their reputation among customers, investors, and other stakeholders, potentially leading to increased brand loyalty and market share. Moreover, aligning with the EU Taxonomy ensures regulatory compliance, safeguarding businesses against potential penalties and legal issues by keeping them in line with the latest sustainability regulations.

Now let’s take a closer look at the challenges:

Complexity: The EU Taxonomy is a complex framework with evolving criteria. Complying with its requirements may be challenging for some businesses, especially smaller ones with limited resources.

Data Collection and Verification: To demonstrate compliance, businesses must collect and verify extensive environmental data. This process can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.

Adaptation to New Standards: As the Taxonomy evolves and additional criteria are introduced, businesses may need to adapt their operations continually to meet the changing requirements.

In a nutshell:

The EU Taxonomy stands at the forefront of the EU’s efforts to combat climate change and foster sustainability. In 2023, businesses across various sectors must familiarize themselves with the Taxonomy’s criteria and reporting requirements. Complying with the EU Taxonomy not only positions businesses for long-term success but also contributes to a more sustainable future for Europe and the world. Embracing the principles of the Taxonomy is not merely a legal obligation; it is a commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible corporate citizenship.

Remember, the EU Taxonomy is continuously evolving, so it is crucial for businesses to stay informed and proactive in their sustainability efforts to align with future developments. By doing so, businesses can play a significant role in building a greener and more resilient economy for generations to come.

Interested to learn more about EU Taxonomy?

Taxonomy

EU Taxonomy Reporting Challenges

Posted on August 7, 2023August 20, 2023 by Or Kadosh

Findings.co challenges surrounding eu taxonomy regulations

07
Aug

The European Union’s commitment to fostering sustainable economic activities has led to the establishment of the EU Taxonomy, a regulatory framework aimed at promoting environmentally sustainable investments. As companies undertook the first round of reporting under this regulation, several challenges and misalignments have come to light, revealing the complexities that lie ahead. In this blog, I will explore the key observations and emerging best practices identified by the EU Platform on Sustainable Finance and the Sustainable Finance Advisory Committee of the German Federal Government (SFB). We also discuss the current challenges faced by organizations in complying with the EU Taxonomy regulations and the need for further guidance and clarity.

Usability Challenges and Misalignments

The EU Platform on Sustainable Finance’s report on data and usability of the EU Taxonomy provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by reporting entities. The usability challenges can be broadly categorized as structural, interpretive, and technical issues. Companies often struggle with incorrect templates, number formatting, and naming conventions, leading to inconsistencies in reporting. For instance, some entities may report “green share of revenues” instead of “Taxonomy-aligned turnover.” Interpretive issues arise when companies fail to follow the correct disclosure standards, reporting ambiguous terms instead of specific Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Additionally, technical issues emerge in determining eligible activities and meeting the technical screening criteria, which can vary across sectors.

Despite the usability challenges, the report highlights some best practices that can enhance the reporting process. Utilizing correct reporting templates and naming conventions from the outset can simplify reporting and improve consistency across disclosures. The Platform specifically recommends using the Taxonomy activity and numbering conventions found in the Delegated Act and maintaining consistency between mitigation and adaptation activities. By adhering to these conventions, companies can facilitate the comparability of data and ensure transparency for investors and stakeholders.

To ease the transition to the new reporting framework, supplementary guidelines and advice from the European Commission are encouraged. These additional resources could offer clarifications on specific reporting requirements, technical screening criteria, and eligible activities, helping companies navigate the complexities of the EU Taxonomy with greater confidence.

Challenges Faced by Asset Managers and Insurers

While some asset managers and insurers have reported their Green Investment Ratio (GIR) under Article 8, they encounter specific challenges due to limited coverage and inconsistent terminology. Data availability remains patchy, hindering accurate reporting of taxonomy alignment figures. A significant hurdle during the initial practical implementation revolves around the incomplete availability of data necessary for complying with the Taxonomy Regulation reporting. However, the Sustainable Finance Advisory Committee (SFB) endorses the approach and aims to contribute to its effective implementation by offering practical insights from various perspectives.

To improve data availability and consistency, the involvement of non-EU issuers and entities not currently mandated to report relevant figures could be crucial. Encouraging voluntary reporting from such entities could contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of taxonomy alignment across the financial industry.

Time-Frame and Legal Ambiguity Issues

One of the critical challenges pertains to the time-frame for implementing the Taxonomy Regulation. Structurally, “the SFB points out that the time between publication of regulation and required application is too short for companies to adapt adequately.” In addition, the limited data availability is explained by the sequencing of EU regulations, where investors are required to report their alignment before non-financial companies under the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD) scope do the same. As a result, the lack of data from certain sectors could hinder the ability of investors to accurately assess their investment products’ alignment with the taxonomy.

The absence of a centralized contact point for clarification and the need for international compatibility are additional challenges faced by reporting entities. A dedicated contact point within the European Commission could offer support and guidance, ensuring a more consistent interpretation and application of the Taxonomy Regulation across member states. Furthermore, harmonizing the taxonomy with international standards would foster global alignment and enhance the EU’s role as a leader in sustainable finance.

Compliance Challenges for Organizations

For companies, compliance with the EU Taxonomy Regulation has been a real challenge, mainly due to the complexity in interpreting concepts and criteria. With the regulation’s continuous evolution and integration of delegated acts, organizations must adapt to include all activities contributing to the environmental objectives. The challenges faced by organizations include a short time frame for compliance, setting up suitable processes, difficulty in sourcing information, and room for interpretation of regulatory requirements.

The short time frame between the issuance of the regulation and the reporting deadline has placed significant pressure on companies to establish robust systems and processes for identifying, assessing, and reporting on their economic activities’ taxonomy alignment. Many organizations have had to allocate substantial resources to implement these processes effectively, including upgrading reporting systems, training employees, and engaging with stakeholders to obtain the required data.

Another challenge is the difficulty in sourcing information for reporting purposes. Although the EU Taxonomy initially required only eligibility reporting for disclosures in 2022, the required information was not always directly available and needed to be determined through additional information generated within the company or requested through manual processes. This sourcing process can be time-consuming and may introduce uncertainties in the reporting.

Furthermore, the regulatory documents of the EU Taxonomy have shown a level of scope for interpretation, leading to questions and challenges concerning the proper interpretation of the regulatory requirements. This can result in varying approaches and discrepancies in reporting practices across different organizations.

Ensuring Reliable Sustainability Reporting

To ensure the reliability of sustainability reporting and minimize greenwashing risks, independent and high-quality audits are crucial. Though not mandatory yet, conducting external audits by statutory auditors is advisable to enhance the credibility of sustainability reporting. Independent audits can provide assurance to investors and stakeholders that reported taxonomy alignment figures are accurate and in compliance with the regulation.

Cracking the Code

The EU Taxonomy Regulations represent a significant step towards promoting sustainable economic activities in the European Union. However, the initial round of reporting has revealed several challenges, ranging from usability issues to data availability and legal ambiguities. To overcome these obstacles and effectively implement the Taxonomy Regulation, companies, policymakers, and stakeholders must work collaboratively to provide clearer guidance and enhance reporting processes. Only through a concerted effort can the EU Taxonomy fulfill its intended purpose of fostering a sustainable future for Europe and beyond. As the regulation continues to evolve and expand, addressing these challenges will be crucial in achieving a robust and transparent sustainable finance ecosystem that benefits both investors and the planet.

ESG, Taxonomy, Vendor Risk Management

Complying With EU Taxonomy Regulations to Enhance Risk Management

Posted on July 26, 2023July 27, 2023 by Or Kadosh

Findings.co discusses how to comply and leverage the eu taxonomy to enhance risk management efforts

26
Jul

In today’s fast-paced regulatory landscape, businesses face the daunting task of complying with new regulations all the time. Recently, organizations have been faced with dealing with the EU Taxonomy regulations. With an increasing demand for sustainable practices and transparent reporting, organizations need to learn and adapt quickly to avoid falling behind their competitors. Leveraging the EU Taxonomy in risk management can drive data-driven decision making by providing a structured framework to assess and manage sustainability-related risks and opportunities.

The constantly evolving regulatory environment has made Taxonomy compliance a critical challenge for businesses. To meet investor expectations, consumer preferences, and regulatory requirements, organizations must navigate through complex sustainability criteria and efficiently report their compliance efforts. Make sure to read on to see how Findings can help – especially when it comes to staying compliant with the EU Taxonomy Regulation.

Understanding the Regulatory Demands

The EU Taxonomy sets guidelines and criteria for determining the environmental sustainability of economic activities. Compliance with this regulation is critical for many businesses operating within the European Union, aiming to foster a greener and more sustainable economy. These significant updates and changes will impact the way businesses assess and report their sustainability practices. It is crucial for organizations to understand these updates, ensuring compliance while mitigating the risk of penalties and reputational harm.

Leveraging Risk Management for Data Driven Decision Making

By implementing a robust risk management framework revolving around taxonomy, organizations can stay ahead and ensure compliance. Leveraging the EU Taxonomy in risk management drives data-driven decision making by providing a standardized and science-based framework to assess sustainability risks and opportunities. By integrating financial and sustainability data, companies can make informed choices that align with the EU’s environmental objectives, attract green investments, and proactively respond to changing regulatory landscapes.

Here are some of the key ways taxonomy can influence data driven decision making:

Identifying Taxonomy-Eligible Activities: The first step in using Taxonomy for risk management is to identify the company’s Taxonomy-eligible activities. By mapping all activities against the Taxonomy’s criteria, businesses can determine which of their operations contribute to environmental sustainability. This helps in recognizing areas where the company aligns with the EU’s sustainability goals and where there may be potential risks due to misalignment.

Environmental Risk Assessment: With the Taxonomy’s defined criteria for environmental sustainability, businesses can conduct a more rigorous environmental risk assessment. This assessment will go beyond traditional financial risks to include the evaluation of ecological impacts. It allows companies to identify areas where they might face future regulatory or reputational risks due to non-compliance or unsustainable practices.

Data-Driven Eligibility and Alignment Scoring: The Taxonomy requires companies to link their financial data to sustainability assessments. This means companies need to gather data on their operations and expenditures related to Taxonomy-eligible activities. By collecting and analyzing this data, businesses can score their eligibility and alignment with the Taxonomy’s environmental objectives. Data-driven scoring provides a more objective and transparent view of a company’s sustainability performance.

Risk Mitigation Strategies: Armed with data on eligibility and alignment, companies can develop risk mitigation strategies. For instance, they can focus on increasing investments and efforts in Taxonomy-aligned activities, which not only contribute to sustainability but also enhance their attractiveness to green investors. Simultaneously, they can work on transitioning away from activities that are not aligned with the Taxonomy to reduce exposure to future risks.

Regulatory Compliance: The EU Taxonomy is likely to expand to cover more sectors and objectives in the future. By leveraging the Taxonomy in risk management, companies can proactively prepare for upcoming regulatory changes. They can stay ahead of the curve by identifying potential future Taxonomy-eligible activities and aligning their strategies accordingly. Findings recently announced two features, Assessment AI and Audit AI, which revolutionize the labor-intensive compliance landscape by enhancing efficiency and responsiveness for all stakeholders worldwide. For more in-depth information that’s easy to digest, check out the linked videos.

Reporting and Transparency: Using the Taxonomy for risk management facilitates better reporting and transparency. Companies can disclose their Taxonomy-aligned activities, eligibility scores, and risk mitigation strategies in their sustainability reports. This enhances credibility and helps investors and stakeholders make informed decisions based on reliable data

Continuous Improvement: The data-driven approach to Taxonomy integration allows companies to track their progress over time. By regularly assessing their eligibility and alignment, businesses can set benchmarks, monitor improvements, and continuously optimize their sustainability efforts.

By implementing a comprehensive Taxonomy risk management framework and leveraging Findings, organizations can proactively address the challenges posed by the EU Taxonomy regulation. This approach ensures compliance, mitigates risks, and unlocks opportunities for sustainable growth and competitive advantage. With automated risk identification and mitigation features, organizations can confidently make data-driven decisions while navigating the complex regulatory landscape, reinforcing their commitment to sustainability. Stay ahead, embrace Taxonomy risk management, and shape a sustainable future for your organization.

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ESG, Taxonomy

A Cheat Sheet of EU Sustainability Regulations

Posted on July 20, 2023July 20, 2023 by Or Kadosh

Findings.co cheat sheet of EU Sustainability Regulations

20
Jul

Staying Compliant in 2023

Sustainability reporting regulations have become increasingly important for businesses worldwide. The European Union (EU) is at the forefront of this movement, implementing regulations to enhance the consistency, accuracy, and transparency of sustainability reporting. Below, I will provide a comprehensive overview of some of the most critical EU sustainability regulations to keep in mind in 2023. Sustainability measures have become an integral part of business operations, irrespective of the size of the company. Companies can no longer ignore the growing number of sustainability reporting laws and regulations emerging globally. Navigating this complex landscape can be daunting, with terms like SFDR, CSDR, and NFRD, among others. To help you stay informed, I will highlight key EU sustainability regulations that are important to note in 2023.

EU Taxonomy

The EU Taxonomy is a classification system that establishes a list of economic activities considered sustainable. It aims to combat greenwashing and assist investors in selecting environmentally conscious investments. The EU Taxonomy evaluates investments based on their contribution to climate change mitigation and adaptation, alignment with circular economy principles, impact on pollution, and effect on water and biodiversity. Large companies began reporting their alignment with the EU Taxonomy on January 1, 2023. For a more in depth explanation of EU taxonomy, check out our free eGuide below!

Sustainability Disclosure Requirements (SDR)

Originating from the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the Sustainability Disclosure Requirements (SDR) regulation aims to address concerns about greenwashing, where firms make exaggerated or misleading sustainability claims about their investment products, leading to potential consumer harm and reduced trust in sustainable investments. The proposals focus on building transparency and trust by introducing labels to help consumers navigate the market and ensure that sustainability-related terms in product naming and marketing are accurate and proportional to the product’s sustainability profile. The consultation targets FCA-regulated firms, industry groups, consumer groups, policymakers, academics, and other stakeholders. This initiative is part of the FCA’s commitment to promote trust and integrity in ESG-labeled instruments and products as outlined in the ESG Strategy and Business Plan, contributing to the Government’s Roadmap to Sustainable Investing.

EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR)

The Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR), implemented by the European Parliament, focuses on enhancing transparency in the sustainable investment market. It aims to prevent misleading environmental claims (greenwashing) and increase investment in sustainable products for a transition to a low-carbon economy. The SFDR categorizes investment products into three groups based on their degree of sustainability. It requires asset managers and investment advisers to disclose how they address Sustainability Risks and Principal Adverse Impacts and the three categories of products go into “Article 6,” “Article 8,” and “Article 9” based on their sustainability considerations. The regulation rolled out in two phases, with core disclosures effective in March 2021 and enhanced disclosures in January 2023. Regulators continue to provide guidance on these disclosures as industry understanding evolves.

Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)

The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) expands on the existing Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD) to address structural weaknesses in current ESG regulations. CSRD came into force on January 5, 2023, requiring approximately 50,000 companies to report on sustainability, including a broader set of large companies and listed SMEs. The new rules aim to provide investors and stakeholders with the necessary information to assess investment risks related to climate change and sustainability issues.

Companies subject to the CSRD will have to report according to European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), which will be developed by the EFRAG and tailored to EU policies while aligning with international standardization initiatives. The directive also mandates companies to have their sustainability information audited and introduces digitalization of sustainability information.

The CSRD will be implemented in the 2024 financial year, and companies will need to comply with the new reporting requirements for reports published in 2025. The European Commission has also opened a public feedback period on draft sustainability reporting standards, considering feedback received before finalizing the standards for scrutiny by the European Parliament and Council. These new regulations represent a significant step towards promoting sustainability and responsible business practices within the EU corporate landscape.

Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD)

The Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) is a pending EU proposal that will require large EU companies and non-EU companies with large EU undertakings to exercise due diligence across their business lines and value chains. It aims to prevent human rights and environmental violations. The draft proposal was approved by the EU Parliament on June 1, 2023, and negotiations with member states will follow. Due diligence obligations may come into effect as early as 2025.

The rules will apply to specific categories of companies. Firstly, large EU limited liability companies will be affected, categorized into two groups. Group 1 includes approximately 9,400 companies with 500 or more employees and a net turnover of over EUR 150 million worldwide. Group 2 comprises about 3,400 companies operating in high-impact sectors, such as textiles, agriculture, and mineral extraction, with at least 250 employees and a net turnover of over EUR 40 million worldwide. For Group 2, the rules will be applicable two years later than for Group 1. Additionally, non-EU companies will also come under scrutiny. Approximately 2,600 companies in Group 1 and 1,400 in Group 2, active within the EU and generating turnover thresholds aligned with the mentioned criteria, will be subject to the new rules. It’s important to note that micro companies and SMEs will not be directly affected by these proposed rules. However, supporting measures for SMEs will be provided, which may have indirect effects on them.

Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR)

The Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) policy, introduced by the UK Government, requires organizations to include energy consumption and carbon emission data in their annual reports. It aims to expand reporting to a broader range of companies and promote energy efficiency initiatives to reduce carbon footprints. The SECR applies to large UK companies, including quoted and unquoted companies, as well as limited liability partnerships. The reports must include information on energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and energy efficiency measures undertaken.

Circular Economy Action Plan

The Circular Economy Action Plan is an initiative by the European Commission to promote a circular economy, reducing pressure on natural resources, and achieving climate neutrality and biodiversity conservation by 2050. Really, the goal is to make sustainability a norm. The plan aims to strengthen the eco-design of products, increase recycling rates, reduce landfilling, and promote sustainable consumption and production practices. It includes measures such as extended producer responsibility, eco-design requirements, and waste reduction targets. The plan was published in March 2020 and will be implemented gradually over the coming years. To achieve these objectives, the European Commission plans to implement all 35 actions listed in the plan. Additionally, a monitoring framework has been established to assess progress towards a circular economy and its benefits. This framework includes indicators to monitor material efficiency, consumption within planetary boundaries, and support the European Green Deal’s climate neutrality goals.

EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS)

The EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) is a key policy instrument in the EU’s efforts to combat climate change. It is a cap and trade system operating in EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. It aims to limit greenhouse gas emissions from various sectors, including the energy industry, manufacturing, aviation, and maritime transport. The system covers approximately 40% of the EU’s total greenhouse gas emissions and is set to include emissions from maritime transport starting in 2024. Under the cap and trade principle, a cap is placed on the total amount of greenhouse gasses that covered operators can emit. This cap is reduced over time to ensure overall emissions decrease. Operators buy or receive emissions allowances within the cap, and they can trade these allowances with others. This creates a market for emissions allowances, encouraging emission reductions and investments in low-carbon technologies. Operators must surrender enough allowances to cover their emissions annually, and failure to do so results in heavy fines. If an operator reduces its emissions, it can keep the extra allowances for future use or sell them to others needing more allowances.

The EU ETS covers various sectors, including electricity and heat generation, energy-intensive industries like steel and cement production, aviation within the European Economic Area, and maritime transport. Participation is mandatory for certain-sized companies in these sectors, with exceptions for some small installations under certain conditions.

Stay Compliant!

For businesses operating within the European Union, adhering to these sustainability regulations is not only a legal obligation in many cases, but also an opportunity to play a crucial role in building a sustainable and resilient future. Compliance with these regulations is essential to demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility, social well-being, and corporate governance best practices. As companies strive to meet these regulatory requirements, it is vital to establish robust systems and processes for accurate and transparent sustainability reporting. By doing so, businesses can effectively manage risks associated with non-compliance, foster trust with stakeholders, and seize the potential advantages of sustainable practices, including increased attractiveness to environmentally conscious investors and consumers.

The regulations discussed in this cheat sheet, including SDR, SFDR, EU Taxonomy, CSRD, CSDDD, SECR, Circular Economy Action Plan, and EU ETS, cover a wide range of environmental, social, and governance aspects. It is important for companies to familiarize themselves with these regulations, and monitor updates. embracing sustainability and staying compliant with the EU’s evolving sustainability regulations is not merely a box-ticking exercise but an ongoing commitment to creating a positive impact on the planet and society.

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ESG, Taxonomy

An Introduction to the EU Taxonomy Regulation

Posted on July 7, 2023July 12, 2023 by Or Kadosh

An explanation of what is the eu taxonomy regulation?

07
Jul

In Brief:

The EU Commission introduced the Action Plan on Sustainable Finance in 2018 to guide investments towards sustainable projects and fulfill climate and energy targets.
The EU Taxonomy Regulation was implemented as part of the Action Plan to establish a universal terminology and classification system for sustainable economic activities.
The Taxonomy Regulation defines six environmental objectives, including climate change mitigation, circular economy transition, and biodiversity protection.
The Taxonomy Regulation imposes reporting obligations on certain entities, amending the Non-Financial Reporting Directive and the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation.

In March 2018, the EU Commission introduced the “Action Plan on Sustainable Finance” with the objective of guiding investments towards sustainable projects and endeavors. One of its main purposes The goal is to reach a climate-neutral economy in the EU by 2050, with a reduction of 55% already implemented in 2030.was to fulfill the goals outlined in the European Green Deal. The initial key step of this plan involved establishing a universal terminology and precise definition for activities that can be deemed “sustainable” in the economic realm. In pursuit of this objective, the EU Commission implemented a classification system known as the “Taxonomy Regulation” or “EU Taxonomy.” This system provides a comprehensive list of economically sustainable activities that align with the six environmental objectives specified by the Commission: climate change mitigation, climate change adaptation, preservation and responsible use of water and marine resources, transition to a circular economy, prevention and control of pollution, and protection and restoration of biodiversity.

Simplifying the EU Taxonomy

With its extensive document spanning hundreds of pages, the EU Taxonomy Regulation might appear intimidating at first glance. However, understanding its core concepts is essential. At its core, the Taxonomy serves as a classification system for economic activities, defining which activities are considered environmentally sustainable. It addresses the issue of greenwashing by enabling market participants to confidently identify and invest in sustainable assets. Additionally, the regulation introduces new disclosure obligations related to the Taxonomy for companies and financial market participants. Central to the Taxonomy Regulation is the definition of a sustainable economic activity. To qualify as sustainable, an activity must meet two criteria: contribute to at least one of the six environmental objectives outlined in the Taxonomy and avoid significant harm to any other objectives, while respecting human rights and labor standards.

The Six Taxonomy Objectives:

Taxonomy Reporting Requirements

While primarily serving as a classification tool, the Taxonomy Regulation imposes reporting obligations on certain entities. It amends the disclosure requirements in the EU’s Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD) and the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR).

Under the NFRD, non-financial undertakings must disclose the proportion of turnover derived from Taxonomy activities, as well as the proportion of their capital and operating expenditure associated with these activities (Article 8 disclosure). The proposed Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) will expand this requirement to a broader list of entities.

The SFDR requires entities falling under its scope to disclose information on the alignment of their products with the Taxonomy. This includes products with sustainable investment objectives (Article 9 SFDR) and those with environmental or social characteristics (Article 8 SFDR). Entities that do not consider the EU criteria for environmentally sustainable activities must make a statement to that effect (Article 7 SFDR).

Strategic Preparation for a Greener Future

The EU Taxonomy Regulation is a vital tool in driving the transition to a sustainable economy and achieving climate neutrality. By providing clarity on sustainable economic activities, it helps combat greenwashing and encourages investments in environmentally friendly assets. As the Taxonomy evolves and becomes integrated into various policy measures, its impact on financial markets and corporate practices will likely expand. Staying informed about the Taxonomy and its reporting requirements will be crucial for businesses and investors seeking to align with sustainable objectives and contribute to a low-carbon future.

As companies prepare to meet the EU Taxonomy requirements, they can benefit from early preparation, including eligibility assessments, alignment analyses, and designing data collection processes. By embracing these measures, companies can position themselves as drivers of sustainable change and contribute substantially to the EU’s environmental objectives.

Download Our EU Taxonomy Guide Now

ESG

Unveiling the Power of ESG Stakeholders

Posted on June 28, 2023July 11, 2023 by Or Kadosh

Who are the stakeholders influencing ESG investing?

28
Jun

Overview

ESG stakeholders, including investors, nonprofits, governments, customers, and employees, collectively drive and shape ESG metrics, promoting sustainability and responsible business practices.
Investors play a significant role by utilizing ESG criteria and ratings to identify companies that prioritize environmental and social responsibility, while nonprofits and NGOs advocate for ESG regulations and reporting frameworks.
Government regulations worldwide, such as those implemented by the EU, encourage companies to embrace sustainability and accurately report their ESG performance. Additionally, customer demand for ethical brands and employee expectations for purpose-driven work further push companies to adopt ESG values.

The Influence of ESG Stakeholders in Driving ESG Metrics

As the importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors continues to gain traction in the business world, a wide range of stakeholders is playing a crucial role in shaping and driving ESG metrics. From investors and nonprofit organizations to governments and employees, these stakeholders are collectively pushing for a more sustainable and responsible approach to business. This blog post, I will explore the different groups of ESG stakeholders and how they are influencing the implementation and reporting of ESG programs.

Investors and ESG Ratings

There’s a growing question of “are ESG investors underperforming?” With a prevalence of ESG in private markets increasing, a significant rise in the number of private equity firms signing the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) and raising $2.5 trillion in capital has also increased. However, there is limited data on ESG fund performance, and analysis shows no significant performance differences between PRI signatories and non-signatories. Bloomberg Intelligence predicts that the market size of ESG investments will reach $50 trillion by 2025, nearly three times the level in 2014. And with this in mind, investors are playing a significant role in driving ESG metrics. After all, many do utilize ESG criteria and ratings to identify companies that prioritize environmental and social responsibility. Raters and score providers are also amplifying the impact of ESG leaders by spotlighting purpose-driven companies through their sustainability rankings and reports.

Nonprofits and NGOs as Catalysts

Nonprofit organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are at the forefront of advocating for ESG regulations, standards, and reporting frameworks. Organizations like the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) are working towards establishing consistent and transparent ESG guidelines. Through their research, advocacy efforts, and collaborations, nonprofits and NGOs are shaping the ESG landscape and encouraging businesses to adopt sustainable practices.

Government Regulations

Governments worldwide are recognizing the need for ESG regulations to protect human rights and the environment. Countries such as Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the European Union (EU) have introduced new ESG disclosure requirements and due diligence standards. The EU, in particular, has taken significant steps by implementing various regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence, EU Taxonomy, Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and European Single Electronic Format (ESEF) reporting, and Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR). These regulations create a legal framework that drives companies to embrace sustainability and report their ESG performance accurately.

Customer Demand for Ethical Brands

Consumers are increasingly drawn to ethical brands, placing pressure on businesses to prioritize ESG practices. According to surveys, 74% of customers consider ethical corporate practices and values as a crucial factor when choosing a brand. Furthermore, a significant percentage (66%) of consumers plan to make more sustainable or ethical purchases in the coming months. To cater to this demand, companies are adopting sustainability initiatives, including carbon-labeling on products, to provide transparency and facilitate informed consumer choices.

Employee Expectations and Social Impact

Employees have become increasingly conscious of the impact their organizations have on society and the environment. They want to work for companies that align with their values and contribute positively to the world. A survey revealed that 93% of employees believe that companies must lead with purpose, while 65% feel that organizations should aim to leave their people “net better off” through work. Businesses that prioritize ESG values and make a positive impact on people and the planet are likely to see higher levels of employee satisfaction and attract top talent. Moreover, social impact has become an essential aspect of corporate philanthropy, with companies increasing community investments and providing opportunities for employees to engage in social initiatives.

ESG Stakeholders Pave the Way for a Sustainable Future

In short, ESG stakeholders, including investors, nonprofits, governments, customers, and employees, collectively drive and shape ESG metrics. The growing interest in ESG investing, the influence of ESG rating agencies, and the demand for ethical brands from customers all contribute to the momentum behind sustainable business practices. Additionally, nonprofits and NGOs drive the establishment of ESG regulations and reporting frameworks, while governments are implementing legal requirements to ensure corporate accountability. As employees prioritize purpose-driven work and communities expect businesses to give back, organizations are compelled to integrate ESG considerations into their operations. By recognizing and responding to the diverse interests of ESG stakeholders, businesses can thrive in a changing landscape and contribute positively to the world.

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Taxonomy

Who Is the EU Taxonomy For?

Interested to learn more about EU Taxonomy?

Taxonomy

EU Taxonomy Reporting Challenges

ESG, Taxonomy, Vendor Risk Management

Complying With EU Taxonomy Regulations to Enhance Risk Management

ESG, Taxonomy

A Cheat Sheet of EU Sustainability Regulations

ESG, Taxonomy

An Introduction to the EU Taxonomy Regulation

ESG

Unveiling the Power of ESG Stakeholders

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