ESG reporting as a driver of value creation. A case study of ABN AMRO

This research explores the channels through which ESG reporting represents a driver of value creation, through the experience of ABN AMRO, an international financial institution that is an award winner and frontrunner in the field of sustainability and ESG. Based on document analysis and interviews, this research reviews the bankÔÇÖs ESG reporting journey and discusses the crucial role played by banks in the transition to a sustainable economy, by directing funds towards companies that make a positive impact on society. The study documents that ESG reporting accelerates integrated thinking, drives value creation, and has a disciplining effect on ESG performance; ESG reporting needs to entail both positive and negative impacts on stakeholders, aimed at maximising the positives and minimising the negatives. Authenticity, accuracy, completeness, and relevance of the disclosure, together with effective internal controls, external assurance, and regulation would be effective in preventing greenwashing and ensuring that reporting is the result of an authentic effort. Within this context, practitioners play a leading role in supporting companiesÔÇÖ ESG journey; they have the required mindset and expertise to measure and analyse financial and non-financial information and translate these into long-term value creation.