ESG reporting has taken a knock in recent times: the media has painted the perception of large businesses reneging on their ESG priorities with stories ranging from negligence to non-compliance. The practice has been seen as a ‘tick-box’ necessity and a blocker to business rather than a strategic asset. But these stances are from a minority of large players and do not represent the true reality on the ground.

ESG reporting is no longer just about ticking boxes. As reporting expectations evolve, businesses that treat ESG as a core priority will be better positioned to attract capital, manage regulatory risks and drive sustainable value. And CFOs, perhaps unexpectedly, are now at the centre of this shift.