What data are needed for a complete ESG report

The environmental data constitute the pillar of the 'E' component of the ESG report. They mainly concern energy consumption, emissions of CO₂ and other climate-altering gases (Scope 1, 2 and 3), use of water resources, waste generation and management, and impacts on biodiversity and land use. It is essential to adopt standardised metrics (e.g. GHG Protocol for emissions) and ensure traceability of sources. The new ESRS standards (European Sustainability Reporting Standards) impose detailed reporting obligations on European companies, particularly for companies subject to the CSRD. Proper environmental monitoring not only enables compliance with regulations, but also reduces operating costs and improves corporate reputation.

The social data (the 'S' component of ESG) analyses the impact of the company on workers, local communities and stakeholders. Key information includes occupational health and safety, gender equality, inclusion and diversity policies, staff training, industrial relations, and the impact of production activities on territories. Parameters must be collected at both quantitative (e.g. accident rates, percentage of women in management roles) and qualitative (e.g. company policies) levels. Companies must also document social initiatives, such as welfare programmes or contributions to local development. Meeting the criteria GRI 400 or ESRS S1-S4 allows companies to align with best practice reporting and demonstrate corporate social responsibility in a transparent manner.

Component 'G' of the ESG report focuses on the corporate governance structure. The required data covers the composition and independence of the board of directors, anti-corruption policies, code of ethics, ESG risk management and internal control. It is important to highlight the presence of bodies dedicated to sustainability, the alignment of ESG objectives with the management reward system and transparency policies towards stakeholders. Companies must also disclose whistleblowing mechanisms and regulatory compliance. This information, in line with the ESRS G1 and GRI 200 standards, is crucial to ensure credibility in the eyes of investors, regulators and consumers.

Comprehensive reporting allows to identify areas for improvement, monitor progress and integrate sustainability into the business model. Companies that measure and communicate their impacts are more resilient, attract sustainable investments (ESG investing) and improve market confidence. In addition, the adoption of measurable targets (ESG KPIs) aligns reporting with the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) and creates long-term value. The future of business lies in the ability to transform ESG data into competitive levers.

This article was realised in the framework of the project "Biodiversity services EU expansion" (CUP: E43D22000480009) in the framework of the Lombardy Region's call for tenders "PR FESR 2021-2027 - LINEA INTERNAZIONALIZZAZIONE 21-27", aimed at supporting the internationalisation of Italian companies. 3Bee is the naturetech company that develops innovative technologies for monitoring, protecting and regenerating biodiversity, supporting companies in defining customised climate strategies based on the analysis of their impacts and dependencies on nature. With an established portfolio in Italy, Germany and France and prominent partnerships, 3Bee continues its expansion into international markets to create real impact through technology.