The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) has officially commenced a public comment period for three exposure drafts designed to significantly bolster transparency regarding corporate impacts on air, soil, and water. This move comes as recent GRI research highlights that quantifiable air pollution data from high-emitting sectors remains “patchy and inadequate,” despite the World Air Quality Report warning that 91% of countries currently exceed WHO safety guidelines.
Under the new proposals, GRI plans to introduce its first-ever Topic Standard for soil pollution while expanding existing disclosures within GRI 305: Emissions 2016. Furthermore, a substantial update to GRI 306: Effluents and Waste 2016 aims to broaden the scope of reporting on significant spills to include comprehensive emergency preparedness and prevention for all critical incidents.
Harold Pauwels, GRI Standards Director, emphasised the necessity of this holistic approach, stating, “Pollution is not confined to a single emission source or environmental medium, it affects human health, quality of living in communities and biodiversity. Achieving strengthened reporting on pollution requires both greater transparency and a wider scope.” He further noted that “Delivering complete and effective new and revised pollution standards requires broad input and perspectives: that’s why we are seeking engagement that spans stakeholders and regions, to ensure the final standards reflect diverse expertise and global realities.”
These updated disclosures are designed to align with international instruments such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, ensuring interoperability with European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS). The consultation remains open until 8 June, with the final suite of Pollution Standards expected to launch in 2027. Stakeholders are invited to attend global webinars on 15 and 16 April, alongside a dedicated air pollution session on 13 May, to discuss the technical contents of the drafts.
