Strategic Focus: Managing Sustainability Reporting And Carbon Initiatives

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Executive Summary

Over the past three years, software vendors have modified their offerings to meet changing demands from customers for both ESG reporting and carbon management software. While carbon was centre stage in the late 2010s and early 2020s, with firms setting net zero targets and publishing reports in line with the TCFD, organizations are now under pressure to disclose information about a broader range of sustainability issues, such as human rights in the supply chain, and nature and biodiversity. This report identifies the key roles and use cases for both ESG reporting and carbon management software, as well as the approaches vendors are taking in this shifting environment. Executives should use this report as part of their digital strategy development when evaluating how to manage their carbon and sustainability reporting needs. 
Executives increasingly merge data management for sustainability reporting and performance improvement
Key use cases for ESG, sustainability and carbon data, and the stakeholders who require the data
ESG and carbon data management vendors build, buy or borrow functionality
Selecting a single platform is an increasingly appealing option, but not the only choice
Figure 1. ESG reporting and carbon management software address many use cases
Figure 2. A variety of roles leverage ESG reporting and carbon management software
Figure 3. Different roles are focused on certain use cases
Figure 4. Vendors face a build, buy or borrow dilemma
Figure 5. Questions to ask when considering ESG reporting and carbon management vendors

About the Authors

Jessica Pransky

Jessica Pransky

Principal Analyst

Jessica is a Principal Analyst at Verdantix, specializing in providing insights to sustainability leaders and analysing ESG and sustainability reporting software. She advises ...

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Kim Knickle

Kim Knickle

Research Director

Kim Knickle is a Research Director at Verdantix, bringing more than two decades of analyst experience to the evolving world of sustainability. Her current research spans ESG a...

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