Sustainability reporting agency expanding in ASEAN

The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), a pioneer of global corporate sustainability reporting, is expanding its presence and activities in the ASEAN region.

GRI is an international, independent organization that helps businesses, governments and other organizations understand and communicate the impact of business on critical sustainability issues.

According to GRI board member and Philippine Veterans Bank chair Roberto F. de Ocampo, the organization already helps developed countries invest millions in sustainable development activities in emerging markets to address poverty, human rights and climate change.

Likewise, the sustainability reporting process is used around the world to address challenges that prevent businesses in the region from fully participating in the global economy.

“I am delighted that GRI will increase its activities across Asia, and particularly the ASEAN region. I look forward to further collaboration to support sustainable economic development across the region,” De Ocampo said.

As the provider of the world’s most widely used standards for sustainability reporting, GRI is leveraging its vast global network of reporters and strategic partners in over 90 countries to support the development of a sustainable economy across the region.

GRI has convened a group of dignitaries, ambassadors, political leaders and CEOs from across the region to discuss the importance of sustainability in Asia’s rapidly growing economies.

Asia Pacific is the fastest growing region for corporate responsibility reporting over the last four years, largely driven by mandatory and voluntary reporting requirements from policymakers.

For his part, GRI chief executive Michael Meehan said ASEAN economies continue to accelerate in these areas even as the world struggles with reduced foreign direct investment and lower growth rates.

“Asia must ensure that both corporates and governments work together to create a transparent, inclusive and resilient economy, and we are here to support these ambitions,” Meehan said.

GRI has a strong history of working in the ASEAN region to support local interests which includes working with stock exchanges and development banks. It is supported by the governments of Australia, Switzerland, Sweden and others for its work in the region.

Later this month, GRI will deliver workshops to over 100 sustainability reporters across Indonesia, Sri Lanka and the Philippines to build capability.

In addition, there will be dedicated sessions related to the ASEAN region at the 5th GRI Global Conference in May, which include ‘ Crossing Borders: Sustainability data to strengthen the ASEAN economic community’ and ‘Building Trust in South Asia: Enforced or self-regulation’.