Definition:

The DNK reporting standard (German Sustainability Code) is a framework for transparent reporting on the sustainability performance of companies in Germany. It was developed to support companies in structuring, measuring and publicly communicating their sustainability efforts. The Sustainability Code reporting standard is a key tool to help companies integrate sustainability into their business strategy and meet stakeholder requirements.

Key features of the Sustainability Code reporting standard:

Indicator-based: The DNK reporting standard is based on a list of indicators that enable companies to measure their sustainability performance in various dimensions such as environmental, social, governance and economic.

GRI compatibility: The DNK reporting standard is compatible with the guidelines of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), an internationally recognized framework for sustainability reporting. This makes it easier for companies to integrate sustainability information into their reports and enables better comparability.

Transparency: Companies that use the DNK reporting standard are committed to transparent and comprehensible reporting on their sustainability performance and goals. This helps to create trust among stakeholders.

Self-commitment: The application of the Sustainability Code reporting standard is voluntary, which means that companies can decide for themselves whether they want to use it. This voluntary commitment demonstrates a company’s commitment to sustainable practices.

Implementation of the DNK reporting standard:

Selection of relevant indicators: companies select from the list of DNK indicators those that best fit their business activities and sustainability goals.

Data collection and analysis: Companies collect data on the selected indicators and analyze them to assess their sustainability performance.

Reporting: Based on the data collected, companies create sustainability reports that they make available to the public. These reports can be published on the company website or in other communication channels.

Communication with stakeholders: The reports are used to inform stakeholders about the company’s sustainability performance, goals and progress and to promote dialog with them.

Advantages of the Sustainability Code reporting standard:

Creating trust: Companies that use the DNK reporting standard can gain the trust of stakeholders by providing transparent information about their sustainability practices.

Achieving sustainability goals: The DNK reporting standard supports companies in implementing their sustainability goals and improving their sustainability performance.

Better comparability: Compatibility with international standards such as GRI enables better comparability of reports between companies and across national borders.

The DNK reporting standard is a valuable tool for companies that want to measure and communicate their sustainability efforts. It helps to integrate sustainability into the business strategy and strengthen corporate social responsibility.