Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance is no longer just a concern for global corporations—it’s becoming a priority for businesses of all sizes. As regulatory pressure and investor demand grow, the role of accountants is rapidly evolving. Today’s financial professionals are being called to lead ESG reporting, guide sustainability metrics, and ensure that organizations meet these new expectations with accuracy and integrity.
In this post, we’ll explore why ESG reporting matters, how it’s shaping the future of accounting, and how XMC Asia is helping businesses integrate sustainability into their financial reporting frameworks.
What Is ESG Reporting?
ESG reporting refers to the disclosure of a company’s environmental impact (e.g., carbon emissions), social responsibilities (e.g., labor standards, DEI), and governance practices (e.g., board diversity, ethics policies). It’s a framework that helps stakeholders assess a company’s non-financial performance alongside its bottom line.
Why Accountants Are Central to ESG
Accountants are uniquely positioned to collect, verify, and report ESG data with the same rigor as financial data. This shift is redefining the scope of their responsibilities—from bookkeepers to business sustainability advisors.
ESG Trends and Industry Statistics
96% of global companies are planning to increase ESG investment in 2025 (PwC Global ESG Survey).
88% of investors consider ESG factors just as important as financial statements (EY Global Institutional Investor Survey).
The sustainability assurance market is expected to grow from ₱13 billion in 2023 to ₱25 billion by 2027, driven by demand for verified ESG data (Allied Market Research).
The Philippines SEC now requires publicly listed companies to submit Sustainability Reports using globally recognized frameworks like GRI or SASB.
ESG Metrics Accountants Are Now Tracking
- Carbon Emissions (Scope 1, 2, and 3)
- Energy and Water Consumption
- Waste Management and Recycling Rates
- Employee Retention and Diversity Metrics
- Ethical Sourcing and Supply Chain Transparency
- Governance Compliance (e.g., board structure, anti-corruption)
How XMC Asia Supports ESG Integration
As ESG evolves from a “nice-to-have” to a “must-have,” XMC Asia is equipping businesses and accounting teams with the tools and guidance they need to lead the change:
Sustainability Data Management
We help design systems to capture and audit ESG metrics consistently and accurately across departments.
ESG Reporting Framework Alignment
Whether it’s GRI, SASB, or ISSB standards, XMC Asia helps your team align with the appropriate reporting frameworks.
Auditor-Ready ESG Reports
Our process ensures your ESG data is not only compliant but also ready for third-party assurance and investor scrutiny.
Training and Advisory Services
We equip your accounting team with ESG knowledge to interpret data, set goals, and support long-term sustainability strategies.
Key Benefits of ESG Reporting for Businesses
- Improved investor confidence and access to ESG-focused capital
- Competitive advantage through transparency and stakeholder trust
- Regulatory compliance with emerging sustainability mandates
- Operational efficiency from tracking and optimizing resource use
- Brand value enhancement through authentic corporate responsibility
Conclusion: Accountants as ESG Champions
As businesses shift toward more sustainable practices, the role of the accountant is evolving beyond balance sheets. With ESG reporting becoming essential, accountants must now measure, manage, and report the metrics that matter most to society and investors.
XMC Asia empowers accountants and finance teams to lead this transformation. From ESG readiness assessments to full-scale sustainability reporting solutions, we help turn your ESG goals into actionable, auditable strategies.
References
- Seneca. ESG and Financial Performance: Insights, Impact & Strategy 2025
- Wikipedia. Environmental, social, and governance
- Wikipedia. Sustainability reporting