Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practitioners say the biggest reporting challenge their companies face is trying to measure the impact of qualitative initiatives such as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, according to recent research from Workiva and Ascend2.

The report was based on data from a survey conducted in July 2023 among 926 ESG practitioners.

Respondents say their biggest ESG reporting challenges are measuring qualitative initiatives (40% cite as a challenge), complying with ESG frameworks and standards (39%), and compiling data from multiple sources (39%).

ESG practitioners say if their organization enhanced its ESG disclosures, the top benefit would be increased transparency (71% cite as a benefit).