Key Impact Points:
- The UK government will receive final ISSB-aligned recommendations by December 20, addressing general and climate standards with amendments.
- The Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) proposes a two-year reporting relief period, diverging from ISSB’s one-year guidance.
- Interoperability with EU standards poses challenges, with differing materiality definitions complicating cross-framework reporting.
ISSB Recommendations to Guide UK Sustainability Reporting
A UK committee established by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has confirmed that it will deliver final endorsement recommendations for local sustainability reporting standards (SRS) by December 20. The recommendations are based on the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) frameworks.
The Sustainability Disclosure Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) finalized its proposal after eight meetings, urging the UK to adopt the ISSB’s general sustainability (IFRS S1) and climate (IFRS S2) standards, with some amendments.
“The endorsement recommendations are focused on adapting ISSB standards to fit the UK framework while ensuring compliance with global expectations.”
Reporting Relief and Delayed Decisions
The TAC suggests a two-year reporting relief for companies to disclose climate-related risks and opportunities—doubling the one-year period recommended by ISSB. This extended timeline is aimed at easing businesses into compliance.
On the initial application date, the TAC removed the explicit January 2024 deadline, replacing it with a broader “initial application” term, leaving uncertainty around mandatory implementation. The DBT’s previous endorsement deadline of July was postponed to Q1 2025, triggering investor criticism.
“Endorsement does not change legislation; regulatory adjustments will fall under the Financial Conduct Authority,” the TAC clarified.
Navigating Global Standards and Challenges
TAC members met with ISSB representatives Richard Barker and Mark Manning on December 2 to discuss progress and address interoperability challenges with frameworks like the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive. The committee voted against a proposal requiring companies to disclose the reporting year for financed emissions, citing practicality concerns.
“Differing definitions of materiality are likely to cause challenges for companies reporting under multiple frameworks,” the committee noted.
The final report is expected to provide clarity on these issues and shape the future of UK sustainability reporting.
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