How can you ensure that your data collection methods are transparent?

In navigating the ESG landscape, envision a commitment to transparency through recognized frameworks and stakeholder collaboration. Define and communicate ESG metrics clearly, aligning them with sustainability goals. Embrace independent verification to enhance credibility, providing timely reports that keep stakeholders informed. Prioritize materiality through assessments, integrating ESG into governance for strategic alignment. External benchmarks offer validation, while ongoing training and tech solutions fortify the journey. This perspective intertwines transparency and accountability, weaving ESG into the fabric of organizational practices.

While clarity in purpose and scope is crucial, it's equally important to consider the ethical dimensions of data collection. Sustainable practices extend beyond environmental concerns to include social and ethical considerations. Privacy and consent must be central considerations when collecting data from individuals or communities. Implementing robust data governance policies ensures that ethical principles guide every stage of the process. Transparency and communication with stakeholders about how their data will be used and protected foster trust.

Transparency in data collection and calculation is crucial for building trust and ensuring credibility. I recommend two key actions: 1) Align with existing third-party standards: Following GRI or the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, for ex, provides stakeholders with a clear understanding of how data is gathered, calculated, and disclosed and enables informed evaluation of sustainability performance via comparability with others. 2) Independent third-party verification: Engage independent third-party auditors to verify your data collection, calculation, and disclosure processes against these recognized standards. This adds a layer of objectivity and assures stakeholders of the accuracy and integrity of reported information.

Unlike financial data, sustainability information is decentralized, residing in various departments and processes. Effectively mapping these areas is crucial for accurate and comprehensive data collection. To collect comprehensive sustainability data, organizations must strategically map areas where relevant information exists. This includes supply chain logistics, energy consumption patterns, and employee engagement initiatives. Mapping requires collaboration between departments that traditionally operate independently. Integrating data from diverse sources demands a holistic approach, fostering a united effort towards sustainability goals.

In addition to methodological considerations, embracing a participatory approach to data collection can enhance its sustainability impact. Engaging stakeholders directly in the process empowers them and ensures their perspectives are accurately represented. Co-designing data collection methods and involving communities fosters a sense of ownership and legitimacy. Moreover, this collaborative approach contributes to social sustainability by respecting diverse voices and incorporating local knowledge. Integrating community-based participatory research principles into data collection not only strengthens the validity of results but also aligns with principles of equity, justice, and shared responsibility in the pursuit of sustainable outcomes.

When asking suppliers for information accept that “I don’t know” needs to be an acceptable answer. That may be counter intuitive, but today that is a common reality. Suppliers don’t know the origin of certain materials. Suppliers don’t know if products contain certain chemicals. Very few suppliers fully understand emission. Etc. Therefore, data collection needs to start with an open dialogue (through appropriate survey tools to allow it to be at scale). Only when the gaps in comprehension and transparency are identified can you properly engage suppliers in the education and capability building to address these ‘gaps’ and build the transparency required in the future.

While documentation provides a valuable record of your data journey, it's equally important to embrace open communication about the limitations and uncertainties inherent in sustainability data. Acknowledging the complexities and potential biases in the data collection process fosters a culture of honesty and humility. Transparency about the challenges faced, the assumptions made, and the areas of uncertainty can lead to constructive dialogue with stakeholders.

Actively monitor and mitigate bias in datasets and algorithms, using diverse training data and bias detection methods. All stakeholders involved need to continuously upskill to adapt and be responsive to evolving trends in sustainability and AI.

Conducting regular external audits of data collection processes ensures ongoing transparency. I was part of a team that implemented yearly external audits for an energy company, which helped maintain high standards of data accuracy & transparency over time. It's important to clearly communicate the methodology used in data collection to stakeholders. In a consultancy role, I advised a company to include detailed explanations of their data collection methods in their sustainability reports, making it easier for readers to understand how the data was gathered & processed. Utilisation of digital tools for data collection & analysis can improve accuracy & transparency.

La propuesta genérica de supervisión externa parece ser la primera más lógica, pero realmente creo que la clave está en la implementación de herramientas tecnológicas que redefinan la estrategia interna de la custodia de "EL DATO". Tienen que existir responsables internos que validen y aseguren que el dato generado es cierto. La certeza del origen del dato sin vulnerar códigos éticos (mínimos) debe nacer de dentro. Nuevas posiciones relacionadas con este aspecto comienzan a verse bien definidas en las organizaciones.

A la hora de recopilar datos es importante consideremos: - La legislación de los países donde se levantará la información para evitar infringir en incumplimiento de legislación local o internacional. - Tener múltiples fuentes de información para contrastarlas. - Si es para un reporte integrado o de sostenibilidad, aclarar el proceso que se sigue para levantar la información. - Que tu información previa a ser comunicada sea validada por un tercero, ya sea un auditor, algún grupo de sociedad civil vinculado a tu industria u otro.