Sustainability Reporting and Communication
Building credibility, trust and organisational value through transparent sustainability reporting.
Date
22 January 2027
Time
9am - 12 noon
Location
University of Surrey
Module aim
This module equips leaders with the frameworks and practical tools needed to communicate sustainability performance effectively, credibly and strategically.
In an environment of increasing stakeholder scrutiny, organisations must move beyond sustainability commitments and demonstrate measurable progress, transparency and accountability.
Participants will explore how to translate sustainability strategies and outcomes into meaningful narratives supported by robust evidence, recognised reporting standards and sound stakeholder engagement principles.
Module content
Part 1 – Evidence-based sustainability communication
- Understanding the role of data and transparency in sustainability reporting
- Using sustainability metrics, targets and performance indicators to demonstrate progress and impact
- Introduction to recognised sustainability reporting principles and frameworks, including relevant elements of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)
- Understanding the changing regulatory environment, exploring the recent EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD).
Part 2 – Developing a credible sustainability narrative
- Translating sustainability strategies and achievements into clear, meaningful narratives
- Identifying organisational values, impacts and commitments that support authentic communication
- Understanding stakeholder expectations and adapting sustainability messages for different audiences, including investors, employees, customers, regulators and business partners.
Learning outcomes
Participants will be able to:
- Understand how data, evidence and recognised reporting principles support credible sustainability communication
- Develop effective approaches to communicating sustainability commitments, progress and impact
- Build transparent narratives that strengthen stakeholder trust and organisational reputation
- Identify stakeholder expectations and tailor communication approaches across different audiences.
Executive deliverable
Participants will develop a sustainability reporting and communication strategy including:
- Key sustainability messages aligned with organisational priorities
- Priority stakeholder groups and engagement approaches
- Evidence and performance indicators supporting sustainability claims.
Prices
| Organisation | Price |
|---|---|
| Small and medium enterprises | £40 (VAT exempt) We have two concession tickets available for local micro and small enterprises. Please email cifal@surrey.ac.uk to apply. |
| Large businesses | £80 (VAT exempt) |
We offer discounted packages for groups of three employees and above. Please email cifal@surrey.ac.uk to apply.