5 steps for efficient ESG data compilation in preparation for report writing

1. Define your reporting framework and data needs

Before gathering data, establish which frameworks and standards apply to your organization. Under CSRD, companies must align with ESRS requirements, which demand structured and transparent data collection across environmental, social, and governance (ESG) topics.

Key considerations:

• Identify the specific ESRS disclosure requirements that apply to your business. Otherwise known as a Double Materiality Assessment, for which we have a dedicated microcourse you can take for free.
• Map out which Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 emissions categories are relevant.
• Ensure alignment with GHG Protocol, TCFD, and double materiality principles.

How to streamline this step:

• Use a gap analysis template to assess missing ESG data.
• Define data owners across departments to ensure accountability and completeness of data.
• Leverage the right ESG software to enhance data tagging and categorization for ESRS compliance.

2. Establish data collection processes and ownership

Many reporting challenges stem from fragmented data sources and unclear ownership. ESG data is often spread across finance, HR, supply chain, and operations, making it difficult to consolidate efficiently.

Key considerations:

• Assign specific ESG data responsibilities to key stakeholders.
• Centralize data repositories to ensure consistency and avoid duplication.
• Standardize data formats to align with ESRS digital reporting requirements.

How to streamline this step:

• Implement automated workflows for data submission across teams.
• Use Position Green’s ESRS software to integrate and structure financial and sustainability data seamlessly.
• Set up regular validation checks to prevent last-minute data gaps. Different time frames will suit different organizations better, but these can be monthly or quarterly depending on internal resources.

3. Ensure data accuracy with validation and audits

Data accuracy is critical for ESRS compliance. Errors in ESG data—whether from manual input mistakes, missing values, or outdated methodologies—can lead to compliance failures and reputational risks.

Common ESG data accuracy pitfalls:

• Misclassified primary and secondary data (especially in Scope 3 emissions).
• Inconsistent emission factors across reporting cycles.
• Lack of audit trails for historical data verification.

How to streamline this step:

• Conduct internal audits before finalizing ESG reports.
• Validate emissions data against GHG Protocol, IPCC, or DEFRA benchmarks.
• Use automated data checks in Position Green’s software to flag inconsistencies.

4. Standardize reporting formats for ESRS compliance

The CSRD requires digitally tagged, machine-readable sustainability reports, meaning ESG data must be formatted correctly from the start. Many organizations struggle with inconsistent reporting formats that create challenges in the final submission phase.

How to structure ESG data for reporting success:

• Align reports with ESRS digital taxonomy requirements.
• Convert qualitative insights into quantifiable, comparable data.
• Maintain historical ESG data to demonstrate year-over-year progress.

How to streamline this step:

• Use structured templates that align with ESRS format requirements.
• Implement automated tagging for ESG disclosures to ensure compliance.
• Utilize Position Green’s ESRS software to help you generate compliant, audit-ready reports.

5. Link ESG data to business performance for strategic insights

Effective ESG reporting isn’t about compliance alone—it should drive business decisions. Organizations that connect sustainability data with financial performance create more compelling, investor-friendly reports.

Key benefits of linking ESG and business strategy:

• Strengthens board and investor engagement.
• Demonstrates progress toward net-zero targets.
• Supports risk management and regulatory alignment.

How to streamline this step:

• Use scenario modeling to assess how ESG risks impact business performance.
• Integrate financial and sustainability data to create a cohesive narrative.
• Leverage Position Green’s analytics tools for dynamic ESG insights.

Conclusion: Prepare your ESG data for ESRS reporting with confidence

Organizing ESG data efficiently before report writing ensures a smooth, accurate, and compliant ESRS reporting process.

• Define your reporting framework and ESG disclosure needs.
• Assign clear data ownership to streamline collection.
• Validate all data points to enhance credibility.
• Standardize reporting formats to meet ESRS requirements.
• Link ESG data to business insights for a stronger sustainability narrative.

With Position Green’s ESRS software, organizations can automate, validate, and structure their ESRS data for as much as a 50% reduction in their compliance admin.

But don’t let us decide for you! Instead, use our dedicated ESRS buyer’s guide to sort through the various options available to you so you can make an informed decision for which solution your business needs.