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Tag: sustainable business

  • PowerJacks Onboards to SALI Platform to Accelerate Sustainability Compliance 

    PowerJacks Onboards to SALI Platform to Accelerate Sustainability Compliance 

    ABERDEEN, SCOTLAND — British engineering firm PowerJacks has joined forces with sustainability compliance platform SALI, in a major step toward digitising its environmental reporting and aligning with international sustainability standards. 

    The move brings PowerJacks, a global provider of electro-mechanical actuation and lifting solutions onto the AI-powered SALI platform to streamline sustainability data management, reduce compliance risk and reinforce environmental accountability. With the partnership now in place, PowerJacks has begun its formal onboarding with SALI — integrating systems, training staff, and deploying customised sustainability modules to ensure a seamless transition. 

    Founded in Aberdeenshire and operating in more than 80 countries, PowerJacks has long been recognised for its precision-engineered products used in sectors ranging from energy to defence. Now, the company is expanding its focus beyond mechanical innovation to include measurable sustainability performance. 

    The SALI platform, known for its AI-driven compliance assessments and evidence-backed sustainability reporting, enables organisations to meet rapidly evolving regulations such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), GRI, ISSB, and UN SDGs. With tailored industry modules, SALI validates uploaded documents, scores their quality and generates improvement insights in real time. 

    Strategic Shift to Digital Assurance 

    PowerJacks’ integration with SALI allows for automated tracking of key sustainability metrics, including energy usage, waste management, air emissions, and circularity. The company will also benefit from AI-generated scenario modelling and lifecycle assessments, ensuring that operational efficiency is matched by environmental foresight. 

    The partnership is especially notable given PowerJacks’ deep industrial footprint and long-standing reputation for engineering reliability. With over 60 skilled employees and five core product categories, from screw jacks to jacking systems, the company’s pivot towards ESG alignment signals a broader industry shift. 

    Part of a Growing Trend 

    PowerJacks joins a growing list of industrial and manufacturing companies choosing SALI to help them bridge the gap between technical operations and sustainability expectations. 

    SALI’s framework is designed to adapt across business sizes and sectors, beginning with local codes of practice and scaling up to international reporting frameworks. The platform provides full audit trails, document-backed evidence and sector-specific benchmarks, helping organisations demonstrate true compliance rather than self-declared claims. 

    “As pressure mounts from regulators, investors, and stakeholders alike, this level of transparent and verifiable reporting has become essential, instead of optional. I applaud PowerJacks’ commitment to quality, and this is reflected in how they are managing their environmental impact,” said SALI’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Eberechi Weli. 

    Building the Future with Evidence 

    PowerJacks’ decision to partner with SALI reflects a growing corporate awareness that sustainability is a measurable standard of business performance. 

    The move is expected to enhance stakeholder confidence, reduce operational overhead tied to manual reporting, and position PowerJacks as a frontrunner in sustainable industrial practices. 

  • The Role of Materiality in ESG Reporting: How to Identify What Matters

    The Role of Materiality in ESG Reporting: How to Identify What Matters

    As the demand for transparency and accountability grows, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting has become a critical part of corporate strategy. However, not all sustainability issues carry the same weight. This is where materiality comes into play — helping businesses identify, prioritize, and report on the issues that matter most to stakeholders and long-term success. In this article, we explain the role of materiality in ESG reporting and how your organization can effectively identify what matters.

    What is Materiality in ESG Reporting?

    Materiality in ESG reporting refers to the process of determining which environmental, social, and governance issues have the most significant impact on a company’s financial performance, stakeholders, and long-term viability.

    There are two main types of materiality:

    1. Financial Materiality: Focuses on issues that could affect a company’s financial health and shareholder value.
    2. Impact Materiality: Considers the company’s impact on society and the environment, regardless of financial implications.

    The latest frameworks, such as the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), adopt a “double materiality” approach that combines both financial and impact materiality.

    Why Materiality Matters in ESG Reporting

    1. Focus and Clarity: Materiality assessments help businesses concentrate resources on the most relevant ESG issues.
    2. Enhanced Stakeholder Trust: Transparency in selecting and reporting material issues builds credibility with investors, customers, and regulators.
    3. Regulatory Compliance: Frameworks like the CSRD, GRI, and IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards require clear identification of material topics.
    4. Strategic Decision-Making: Materiality helps integrate ESG priorities into business strategy and risk management.

    Steps to Conduct a Materiality Assessment

    1. Define Objectives and Scope

    Start by clarifying why you’re conducting the assessment. Are you preparing for regulatory reporting, enhancing stakeholder communications, or shaping long-term strategy?

    2. Engage Stakeholders

    Collect insights from key stakeholders — including investors, employees, customers, regulators, and community representatives — through surveys, interviews, or workshops.

    3. Identify Potential ESG Issues

    Develop a comprehensive list of ESG topics relevant to your industry, operations, and geographic presence. Leverage sector-specific guidance and resources from GRI, SASB, and ESRS.

    4. Prioritize Issues

    Analyze the importance of each issue from two perspectives: its impact on stakeholders and its influence on business success. Tools like SALI’s AI-driven materiality mapping platform can simplify this process.

    5. Validate and Approve

    Review and validate findings with senior management and board members to ensure alignment with corporate strategy.

    6. Communicate and Report

    Integrate the results of your materiality assessment into ESG reports, sustainability disclosures, and corporate strategy documents.

    Best Practices for Materiality in ESG Reporting

    • Update regularly: Conduct assessments every 1-2 years or when significant changes occur in the business or external environment.
    • Ensure transparency: Disclose the methodology used for materiality assessments in your ESG reports.
    • Align with standards: Follow internationally recognized frameworks like GRI, ESRS, and IFRS to meet stakeholder and regulatory expectations.

    The Role of Technology in Materiality Assessments

    Platforms like SALI (Sustainability Assessment, Reporting, and Learning Intelligence) use AI and advanced analytics to:

    • Map material topics against industry benchmarks.
    • Visualize double materiality matrices.
    • Track evolving stakeholder expectations.
    • Generate reports tailored to multiple reporting frameworks.

    Conclusion

    In a rapidly changing business environment, materiality is the foundation of effective ESG reporting. Identifying and focusing on what matters most empowers companies to make informed decisions, manage risks, and demonstrate accountability.

    Need help identifying material ESG issues for your organization? SALI’s AI-powered solutions can guide your materiality assessment process and reporting. Contact us here to learn more.

  • UN SDGs and Corporate Sustainability: Aligning Business Goals with Global Impact

    UN SDGs and Corporate Sustainability: Aligning Business Goals with Global Impact

    In today’s evolving business landscape, sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity. Companies worldwide are increasingly aligning their corporate sustainability strategies with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) — a blueprint for peace, prosperity, and the protection of the planet. But what does aligning business goals with the SDGs really mean, and why is it crucial for businesses in 2025 and beyond?

    What Are the UN SDGs?

    The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are 17 interconnected goals adopted in 2015 by all UN member states as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. These goals address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace, and justice.

    The 17 goals include:

    1. No Poverty
    2. Zero Hunger
    3. Good Health and Well-being
    4. Quality Education
    5. Gender Equality
    6. Clean Water and Sanitation
    7. Affordable and Clean Energy
    8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
    9. Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
    10. Reduced Inequalities
    11. Sustainable Cities and Communities
    12. Responsible Consumption and Production
    13. Climate Action
    14. Life Below Water
    15. Life on Land
    16. Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
    17. Partnerships for the Goals

    Why Should Businesses Align with the SDGs?

    1. Enhanced Brand Reputation: Consumers and investors increasingly favor companies that demonstrate social responsibility.
    2. Investor Confidence: Sustainable business practices are attractive to investors focused on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria.
    3. Regulatory Preparedness: Alignment with the SDGs can prepare businesses for evolving global regulations and reporting frameworks like CSRD and IFRS.
    4. Competitive Advantage: Businesses that integrate SDG goals into core strategy position themselves for long-term resilience and success.

    How Can Companies Align Business Goals with the SDGs?

    1. Conduct a Materiality Assessment

    Identify which SDGs are most relevant to your industry, operations, and stakeholders. Tools like SALI’s AI-driven sustainability assessment platform can help pinpoint focus areas and guide reporting.

    2. Integrate SDGs into Business Strategy

    Ensure that sustainability goals are embedded into your company’s mission, vision, and objectives. For example:

    • Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) can guide waste reduction initiatives.
    • Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) can inspire investments in renewable energy.

    3. Set Measurable Targets

    Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) for each chosen SDG. Transparent and quantifiable goals build trust with stakeholders.

    4. Report Progress Transparently

    Use recognized reporting frameworks like GRI, ESRS, or IFRS Sustainability Standards to disclose how your business contributes to the SDGs.

    5. Partner for Impact

    Collaborate with governments, NGOs, industry peers, and local communities to maximize impact and scale solutions.

    Examples of Corporate SDG Alignment

    • Microsoft has pledged to become carbon negative by 2030 (Goal 13: Climate Action).
    • Unilever integrates Goals 5 (Gender Equality) and 12 (Responsible Consumption) in its supply chain and product development.
    • IKEA invests in renewable energy and sustainable sourcing, supporting Goals 7 (Clean Energy) and 12.

    The Role of Technology in SDG Integration

    Digital platforms like SALI (Sustainability Assessment, Reporting, and Learning Intelligence) enable companies to:

    • Track performance against SDG-aligned KPIs.
    • Automate data collection.
    • Map sustainability initiatives to international frameworks.
    • Generate customizable reports for stakeholders and regulators.

    Conclusion

    Incorporating the UN SDGs into business strategy is more than a CSR initiative — it is a roadmap to resilience, innovation, and global impact. Companies that proactively align their goals with the SDGs not only future-proof their business but also contribute meaningfully to solving global challenges.

    Need help aligning your business goals with the UN SDGs? SALI’s AI-powered tools and expert consulting services can guide your sustainability journey. Contact us today to get started.

  • ESRS vs. GRI vs. IFRS: Which Sustainability Reporting Standard Should You Follow?

    ESRS vs. GRI vs. IFRS: Which Sustainability Reporting Standard Should You Follow?

    As sustainability becomes central to business strategy and investor decisions, companies face a critical question: Which sustainability reporting standard should we follow? Among the most prominent frameworks are the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), and the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Sustainability Disclosure Standards. Each serves unique purposes and audiences, making it crucial for businesses to understand their differences and choose the best fit.

    What is ESRS?

    The European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) are developed by the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) under the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). The ESRS provides a mandatory and comprehensive framework for reporting environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics. Key features of ESRS include:

    • Double materiality: Reporting both the company’s impact on the environment/society and how sustainability issues affect the company.
    • Mandatory assurance: Reports must be audited.
    • Alignment with EU regulations: Tailored for businesses operating in or trading with the European Union.

    What is GRI?

    The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) is the most widely used voluntary sustainability reporting standard globally. Established in 1997, GRI focuses on impact materiality — the company’s impact on the environment and society — and is popular among multinational corporations. Key highlights of GRI include:

    • Impact-driven disclosure: Emphasizes environmental, social, and economic impacts.
    • Sector-specific standards: Customizable reporting guidelines for different industries.
    • Voluntary but globally recognized: Used by companies aiming to communicate transparency to a broad audience.

    What is IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards?

    The IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards, developed by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), focus on providing sustainability-related financial disclosures to investors. IFRS standards are investor-centric and designed for global comparability. Key elements include:

    • Financial materiality: Focus on how sustainability risks and opportunities affect enterprise value.
    • Consistency and integration with financial reporting: Ideal for investors and financial market participants.
    • Global alignment: Designed to work alongside other frameworks and recognized worldwide.

    ESRS vs. GRI vs. IFRS: Key Differences

    CriteriaESRSGRIIFRS Sustainability Standards
    ApplicabilityMandatory for EU large companies under CSRDVoluntary, used globallyVoluntary, investor-focused, gaining momentum
    Materiality ApproachDouble materialityImpact materialityFinancial materiality
    FocusEU regulatory compliance, comprehensive ESGTransparency on environmental and social impactInvestor-focused, financial relevance
    Audit RequirementMandatory assuranceNot mandatoryStrong emphasis on reliability and integration
    AudienceRegulators, investors, stakeholders in the EUGlobal stakeholders, public accountabilityInvestors, financial market participants

    How to Choose the Right Sustainability Standard

    1. Location and Regulatory Requirements: If you operate in the EU or plan to do business there, ESRS compliance is non-negotiable.
    2. Audience and Objectives:
      • Want to communicate impact transparently? GRI is ideal.
      • Need to focus on financial implications of ESG risks and opportunities? IFRS Sustainability Standards are a better fit.
      • Require broad, comprehensive ESG reporting with regulatory assurance? Go with ESRS.
    3. Industry Practice: Some industries have established norms, with certain sectors leaning heavily on GRI or aligning with IFRS frameworks.
    4. Company Size and Structure: Large, publicly traded firms with EU ties should prioritize ESRS. Smaller companies or those focusing on corporate social responsibility might find GRI more practical.
    5. Integration with Financial Reporting: Companies looking to integrate ESG disclosures directly into financial reporting for investor use may lean toward IFRS.

    The Role of Technology in Multi-Framework Reporting

    For companies navigating multiple frameworks, digital solutions and AI platforms like SALI (Sustainability Assessment, Reporting, and Learning Intelligence) are game-changers. SALI helps organizations:

    • Map and align disclosures across ESRS, GRI, and IFRS.
    • Automate data collection and reporting processes.
    • Conduct materiality assessments.
    • Generate customizable reports for different audiences.

    Conclusion

    In the evolving world of sustainability reporting, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Choosing between ESRS, GRI, and IFRS standards depends on your company’s regulatory obligations, goals, audience, and strategic direction. Often, companies will use a combination of these standards to meet the expectations of regulators, investors, and the public.

    Not sure which standard to adopt? SALI’s AI-powered tools and expert guidance can help your business comply with global sustainability frameworks and stay ahead. Contact us today to learn more.

  • CSRD Explained: What It Means for Businesses in 2025

    CSRD Explained: What It Means for Businesses in 2025

    In 2025, the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) will reshape the landscape of business reporting. Designed to enhance transparency and accountability, the CSRD requires thousands of companies across Europe — and beyond — to disclose detailed information on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues. For businesses, understanding what CSRD entails and how to comply is critical.

    What is the CSRD?

    The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) is an EU regulation that builds on and replaces the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD). It mandates companies to disclose standardized and audited information about their sustainability practices. The directive aims to make ESG reporting more consistent, comparable, and reliable, enabling investors and stakeholders to make informed decisions.

    Who Does the CSRD Apply to in 2025?

    By 2025, the CSRD will apply to:

    • All large companies in the EU (meeting two of the following: more than 250 employees, turnover exceeding €40 million, or total assets over €20 million).
    • Listed SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises), though with more simplified reporting standards and phased timelines.
    • Non-EU companies generating more than €150 million in net turnover within the EU and having at least one subsidiary or branch in the EU.

    Key Requirements of the CSRD

    The CSRD introduces several reporting obligations, including:

    • Double materiality: Businesses must assess how sustainability issues affect their operations (financial materiality) and how their activities impact society and the environment (impact materiality).
    • Reporting in line with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS).
    • Mandatory third-party assurance (audit) of sustainability reports.
    • Digital tagging of sustainability data to ensure accessibility and comparability.

    Why the CSRD Matters for Businesses

    The CSRD is more than a regulatory requirement — it’s a business transformation tool. Here’s why it matters:

    • Investor Confidence: Transparent and consistent ESG reporting builds trust among investors and financial institutions.
    • Risk Management: Identifying ESG risks early helps businesses mitigate potential regulatory and reputational issues.
    • Competitive Advantage: Companies leading in sustainability reporting can attract better talent, partners, and customers.
    • Global Influence: The CSRD’s impact goes beyond Europe, shaping global sustainability standards.

    How Businesses Can Prepare for the CSRD

    1. Conduct a Gap Analysis: Review current reporting frameworks and identify areas that require alignment with CSRD and ESRS.
    2. Strengthen Data Collection Systems: Ensure robust mechanisms for gathering and validating ESG data across departments.
    3. Integrate Sustainability into Corporate Strategy: Align sustainability goals with business objectives and risk management.
    4. Engage Stakeholders: Involve employees, investors, and suppliers in understanding and contributing to sustainability efforts.
    5. Work with Experts: Partner with sustainability consultants, legal advisors, and platforms like SALI for guidance and reporting tools.

    The Role of Technology and AI in CSRD Compliance

    Meeting the CSRD’s complex requirements can be challenging without technology. AI-driven platforms like SALI (Sustainability Assessment, Reporting, and Learning Intelligence) help businesses:

    • Automate data collection and reporting.
    • Perform materiality assessments.
    • Generate reports aligned with ESRS.
    • Continuously monitor ESG performance.

    Conclusion

    In 2025, the CSRD will be a defining framework for business accountability and sustainability. Companies that embrace this change not only ensure compliance but also position themselves for long-term success in a sustainability-driven economy. With the right strategy and tools, businesses can turn CSRD compliance into a competitive edge.

    If your business needs support navigating CSRD requirements and automating your ESG reporting, SALI’s AI-driven solutions can help. Contact us today to learn more.

  • Your Business and Sustainability Reporting: breaking down CSRD, ESG, and SDGs

    Your Business and Sustainability Reporting: breaking down CSRD, ESG, and SDGs

    As sustainability becomes a non-negotiable aspect of modern business, European companies are at the forefront of a global movement toward transparency, accountability, and impact. For C-suite leaders and sustainability departments, the challenge lies in navigating an evolving ecosystem of frameworks like the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards, and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These frameworks are interconnected, yet each plays a unique role in shaping a comprehensive sustainability strategy.

    In this article, we unpack these frameworks and illustrate how SALI simplifies the process, empowering your business to lead with clarity and confidence.

    Key Features of CSRD

    The CSRD is a transformative directive introduced by the European Union to enhance corporate transparency and accountability. Here’s what makes it stand out:

    Mandatory Compliance:

    CSRD expands reporting requirements to nearly 50,000 companies in the EU, compared to its predecessor, the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD), which covered only 11,000.

    Standardized Framework:

    The directive mandates the use of the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), ensuring consistency across industries.

    Double Materiality:

    Companies must assess their impact on both the environment and society, as well as how these factors affect their financial performance.

    Digital Tagging:

    Reports must be machine-readable, facilitating easier access and analysis by stakeholders.

    For sustainability teams, meeting CSRD requirements is an opportunity to demonstrate leadership in transparency and build trust with investors, regulators, and customers.

    ESG: A Cornerstone of Business Value Creation

    Unlike the compliance-focused CSRD, ESG frameworks help companies create long-term value by embedding sustainability into their core operations. Here’s how ESG drives value:

    Governance:

    ESG ensures strong corporate governance, reducing risks like fraud, corruption, or mismanagement. It also signals to investors that the company is well-managed and forward-looking.

    Environment:

    Beyond regulatory compliance, focusing on environmental factors (e.g., reducing carbon footprints) can cut costs, foster innovation, and improve resource efficiency.

    Social:

    Social initiatives, such as diversity and inclusion programs, enhance employee satisfaction, retention, and brand reputation.

    For C-suite leaders, integrating ESG metrics into decision-making translates sustainability into measurable business outcomes, making it a powerful tool for resilience and growth.

    Aligning SDGs with CSRD and ESG

    The United Nations’ SDGs

    They provide a universal framework for sustainable development, encompassing 17 goals and 169 targets. While CSRD and ESG focus on operational and compliance aspects, the SDGs offer a broader, aspirational vision.

    CSRD and SDGs:

    The CSRD aligns directly with SDGs by encouraging companies to report on their contributions to goals such as Climate Action (Goal 13) and Responsible Consumption and Production (Goal 12).

    ESG and SDGs:

    ESG performance metrics, such as carbon neutrality or gender diversity, can map onto specific SDG targets, creating a unified narrative for sustainability efforts.

    By using SDGs as a strategic overlay, companies can communicate a global perspective on their local impacts, making their efforts relatable and inspiring to a broader audience.

    SALI’s Role in Simplifying the Process

    At the intersection of these frameworks lies complexity—and opportunity. SALI (Sustainability Assessment Reporting and Learning Intelligence) provides AI-driven tools that empower companies to navigate the intricacies of CSRD, ESG, and SDGs with ease.

    Comprehensive Assessments:

    SALI evaluates your current practices against multiple frameworks, identifying gaps and opportunities for alignment.

    AI-Driven Reporting:

    Our platform automates the data collection and reporting process, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and compliance with CSRD and ESG standards.

    Strategic Insights:

    SALI provides actionable recommendations to help companies align their ESG strategies with SDGs, fostering a cohesive approach to sustainability.

    Education and Capacity Building:

    Through workshops, resources, and tools, SALI equips sustainability departments and C-suite leaders with the knowledge to lead confidently in the sustainability space.

    Why Choose SALI?

    With SALI, you can:

    • Save time and reduce costs by automating reporting.
    • Enhance transparency and build stakeholder trust.
    • Stay ahead of regulatory changes and industry trends.

    Conclusion

    The journey toward sustainable business practices is multifaceted but essential for long-term success. By understanding the nuances of CSRD, leveraging the value of ESG, and aligning with the global goals of the SDGs, European companies can position themselves as leaders in a rapidly changing world.

    With SALI’s AI-driven solutions, your business can turn sustainability challenges into strategic advantages. Let us partner with you to navigate this landscape and unlock new possibilities for growth and impact.

    Contact SALI today to learn more: sali-ai.com.

  • How to Prepare for CSRD: A Step-by-Step Guide for Companies

    How to Prepare for CSRD: A Step-by-Step Guide for Companies

    The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) is transforming how businesses report on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. With mandatory sustainability reporting requirements rolling out across the European Union from 2025, companies must start preparing now to ensure compliance and leverage ESG reporting as a tool for value creation.

    In this article, we provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to help your company prepare for CSRD compliance.

    What is CSRD?

    The CSRD, adopted by the European Commission, expands on the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD) and applies to:

    • All large EU companies meeting two out of three criteria: over 250 employees, €40 million turnover, or €20 million total assets.
    • Listed SMEs (with some exemptions until 2028).
    • Non-EU companies with significant operations in the EU.

    The CSRD introduces more detailed reporting requirements, structured around the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), and embraces the concept of double materiality.

    Step 1: Understand Applicability and Deadlines

    Determine whether your company falls under CSRD obligations. Reporting timelines vary:

    • 2025 (for FY 2024 data): Large public-interest companies already subject to NFRD.
    • 2026 (for FY 2025 data): Other large EU companies.
    • 2027 (for FY 2026 data): Listed SMEs.
    • 2029 (for FY 2028 data): Non-EU companies meeting thresholds.

    Step 2: Build Internal Awareness and Governance

    Establish internal structures to manage sustainability reporting:

    • Appoint ESG leads and form cross-functional teams.
    • Educate senior leadership and board members on CSRD obligations and strategic implications.
    • Integrate ESG governance into risk management and business strategy.

    Step 3: Conduct a Double Materiality Assessment

    CSRD requires companies to disclose both financial materiality and impact materiality. Start by:

    • Identifying ESG topics relevant to your business.
    • Engaging with stakeholders.
    • Mapping priorities using frameworks like GRI, SASB, and ESRS.

    Step 4: Gap Analysis

    Perform a gap analysis of your current reporting and data collection practices against CSRD requirements:

    • Review ESG data availability, quality, and governance.
    • Identify missing disclosures.
    • Leverage tools like SALI’s AI-powered sustainability assessment platform for automated gap analysis.

    Step 5: Strengthen Data Management Systems

    High-quality, auditable data is central to CSRD compliance:

    • Establish robust ESG data collection processes.
    • Set up data controls and audit mechanisms.
    • Integrate ESG data management with financial reporting processes.

    Step 6: Align with ESRS Reporting Requirements

    Familiarize yourself with ESRS standards:

    • Understand required disclosures across governance, strategy, risk management, and metrics.
    • Tailor reporting to sector-specific standards.
    • Create draft templates using ESRS guidance.

    Step 7: Third-Party Assurance

    CSRD mandates limited assurance by an independent auditor:

    • Engage early with your assurance provider.
    • Conduct internal audits to identify data integrity issues.
    • Prepare for assurance readiness assessments.

    Step 8: Report and Communicate

    Prepare your sustainability report for publication:

    • Ensure alignment with CSRD and ESRS guidelines.
    • Publish the report within your annual management report.
    • Communicate key findings to stakeholders and investors.

    Conclusion

    The CSRD represents a significant shift in sustainability reporting, bringing both compliance challenges and strategic opportunities. By starting early and following a structured approach, companies can not only meet regulatory requirements but also enhance stakeholder trust and long-term business resilience.

    Looking for expert support on CSRD readiness? SALI’s AI-powered platform and consulting team can help guide your compliance journey. Contact us here for tailored guidance.

  • Eccleston and Hart Adopts SALI to Drive Sustainability in Polystyrene Manufacturing

    Eccleston and Hart Adopts SALI to Drive Sustainability in Polystyrene Manufacturing

    BIRMINGHAM, UK — UK-based polystyrene manufacturer Eccleston & Hart Ltd has formally adopted SALI as part of its strategy to enhance sustainability performance and improve accountability across its operations. 

    The move marks a significant step in the company’s efforts to modernise its environmental reporting and deepen its commitment to circular manufacturing practices. Known for producing high-quality expanded polystyrene (EPS) for industries such as construction, theatre, and packaging, Eccleston & Hart is now leveraging SALI’s AI-driven compliance engine to better capture, measure, and report on its environmental impact. 

    “We’re proud to be supporting a company that’s already integrating sustainability into its core processes,” said a SALI spokesperson. “This collaboration brings structure, insight, and clarity to their existing efforts — transforming practice into proven performance.” 

    Turning Data into Impact 

    SALI — short for Sustainability Assessment, Reporting and Learning Intelligence — is a next-generation platform that helps businesses meet growing demands for transparent, verifiable sustainability reporting across several frameworks: CSRD, ISSB, UN SDGs, amongst others. Its intelligent assessment system validates documents, identifies gaps, and generates real-time insights tailored to a company’s sector. 

    Through the platform, Eccleston & Hart will gain a comprehensive view of key sustainability metrics including emissions, energy use, material reuse, and waste reduction — all critical touchpoints in the lifecycle of EPS manufacturing. 

    The company already recycles its own waste through a dual process of granulation and compaction, ensuring scrap polystyrene is either reintroduced into production or repurposed into everyday consumer products such as planters, picture frames, and roof tiles. Now, with SALI’s digital tools, these processes can be documented, benchmarked, and aligned with global sustainability frameworks. 

    Tailored for Industry, Built for Regulation 

    SALI’s assessments are customised according to sector-specific codes of practice and align seamlessly with international standards like ISO 50001, GRI, and CSRD. For Eccleston & Hart, this means being able to demonstrate compliance while showcasing best practices in an industry where environmental scrutiny is rising. 

    “The recyclability and performance of EPS have always been strong suits,” noted a representative from Eccleston & Hart. “But with SALI, we can now back those strengths with verified data and translate them into recognised sustainability achievements.” 

    A Step Ahead in a Shifting Landscape 

    The adoption of SALI comes amid intensifying regulatory pressure across Europe, as companies are expected to provide detailed, framework-aligned sustainability disclosures. For manufacturers, this shift requires more than operational adjustments — it calls for integrated, transparent systems of measurement. 

    Eccleston & Hart’s decision to invest in digital compliance tools reflects a broader commitment to not just meeting regulations, but leading in sustainable manufacturing innovation. 

    “It’s no longer enough to simply say you’re reducing your footprint — you need to prove it,” said the SALI team. “We’re excited to see a legacy manufacturer like Eccleston & Hart lean into that responsibility with purpose and clarity.” 

    Paving the Way for the Sector 

    As more companies across manufacturing seek efficient ways to track, report, and improve their sustainability efforts, Eccleston & Hart’s move to integrate SALI into its operations could serve as a roadmap for others navigating similar pressures. 

    From waste management and emissions tracking to regulatory alignment and circularity indexing, the partnership underscores how traditional industries can harness cutting-edge tools to remain competitive, responsible, and future-ready.