The ISSB consulted on its agenda priorities for its next work plan

The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) issued a Request for Information (RFI) titled Consultation on Agenda Priorities to solicit views on the ISSB priorities for a two-year period commencing in 2024. The ISSB aims to enhance the global baseline of investor-focused sustainability disclosures with this next phase of research and standard setting. The comment period closed in September 2023 and the ISSB discussed the responses received at their November 2023 meeting.

The RFI intended to inform the ISSB’s new work plan following completion of IFRS S1 General Requirements for Disclosure of Sustainability-related Financial Information and IFRS S2 Climate-related Financial Disclosures. The feedback will help direct the ISSB’s focus and inform the allocation of the ISSB’s time and resources.

The RFI sought feedback on the strategic direction and balance of the ISSB’s activities. Respondents were requested to rank the ISSB’s primary activities so that the ISSB better understands users’ needs, which will guide them to prioritise their activities. Some of their activities include beginning new standard setting projects, supporting the implementation of issued Standards and researching targeted enhancements to the ISSB Standards. The ISSB also requested feedback on four proposed research projects:

1. Sustainability-related risks and opportunities in biodiversity, ecosystems and ecosystem services.
2. Sustainability-related risks and opportunities in human capital.
3. Sustainability-related risks and opportunities in human rights.
4. Integration in reporting to explore how to integrate information in financial reporting.

The sustainability train is gaining momentum and it may be overwhelming to keep up to date. Stakeholders can access resources such as recordings and FAQs on sustainability on the ISSB webpage to learn more about the ISSB and it’s Standards.

Disclaimer

The article has been prepared by the Secretariat of the ASB for information purposes only. It has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise acted on by the Board.