Frequently Asked Questions on Nature

CA ANZ and Governance Institute of Australia publishes FAQs on Nature-related Financial Disclosures

The adoption of sustainability-related financial disclosures continues to gain momentum globally. Multiple jurisdictions are already implementing mandatory climate-related financial disclosures and in some cases broader sustainability reporting. Internationally and domestically, the focus on nature-related disclosures in growing. The Taskforce for Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) released their recommended disclosures in September 2023. The European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive already includes standards which incorporate nature. Many jurisdictions committed to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which includes a target for large businesses to report on nature and the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) decided to commence a research project on Biodiversity, Ecosystems and Ecosystem Services (BEES). There have also been local legal opinions addressing nature in the context of director’s duties.

As accountants and governance professionals keep up with rapidly evolving sustainability related financial disclosures, many have started the conversation on nature-related impacts and opportunities to understand the potential effects on their business. Many members are already asking questions and to address these, CA ANZ and Governance Institute of Australia (Governance Institute) have published a set of FAQs.

As approaches to nature-related disclosures and terminology rapidly develops, this publication will empower organisations to engage effectively with nature-related risks and opportunities. Says Ainslie van Onselen, CEO of Chartered Accountants ANZ

“Nature, understanding its impact and dependencies for business and the disclosure of these for investor and stakeholder use is developing rapidly globally and domestically. It is important that we are across these developments and ready to address questions that members are asking in this space. Whilst the understanding of nature-related risks and opportunities is evolving, these FAQs aim to explain common issues and provide links to relevant practical resources to encourage a deeper dive” says Karen McWilliams FCA, Chartered Accountants ANZ Sustainability and Business Reform Leader.

Issues covered in these nature FAQs include the importance of nature for business, nature-related financial disclosures, director obligations and greenwashing.

These FAQs are designed as a starting point on the journey. Many FAQs relate to emerging and evolving issues, and responses are based on information available at the time of publication. CA ANZ and Governance Institute will update the FAQs as new questions, responses and valuable resources emerge.

To continue the conversation with other Chartered Accountants and read CA ANZ’s weekly update – Sustainabites – join the Climate and Sustainability group on My CA (member login required).

Watch the latest CA Sustainability Community webinar on Integrating Nature Disclosures: A strategic imperative for CFOs and Finance Teams.

If you have suggestions for more questions, responses or just a different perspective, please let us know at businessreform@charteredaccountantsanz.com.

This article was first published by CA ANZ at the following URL: https://www.charteredaccountantsanz.com/news-and-analysis/insights/research-and-insights/frequently-asked-questions-on-nature