Why this report matters

As global ESG (environmental, social, and governance) regulations rapidly evolve, driven by frameworks like the EU’s CSRD and the ISSB sustainability standards. Organizations are under growing pressure to do more than simply meet compliance.

But leading companies are going further, transforming ESG obligations into opportunities for innovation, resilience, and long-term growth.

To explore this shift, DNV partnered with the University of Cambridge’s MPhil in Engineering for Sustainable Development programme to survey organizations across 15 industries. This exclusive report reveals the strategic impact ESG compliance is having on business performance.

What you’ll learn

  • Strategic Business Impacts of ESG Compliance: Understand how ESG reporting is helping companies redefine performance, mitigate risks, and enhance long-term value with the survey revealing that 72% of respondents reported ESG regulatory compliance has made their organization more valuable to investors or shareholder
  • How 63% of respondents experienced improved brand perception because of ESG compliance. Among those, 38% reported gaining new customers, while 25% cited stronger loyalty among existing ones
  • Where the survey identified several critical improvement areas for organizations to advance beyond compliance including supply chain due diligence and mapping, and financial processes
  • How ESG culture drives competitive advantage: Learn why employee engagement, leadership buy-in, and internal capability building are key to ESG success.

Survey Infographic
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Who should read this report

This in-depth report is ideal for:

  • C-suite executives shaping long-term growth strategy
  • Sustainability and ESG leaders driving transformation
  • Investors and stakeholders seeking transparency and accountability
  • Legal, risk and compliance teams managing regulatory complexity
  • Procurement and supply chain leaders focused on due diligence

Download the full report

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The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) raises the bar for transparent, comparable, and reliable ESG disclosures. As expectations grow, companies must act now to align with the new standards. DNV helps you navigate complexity with tailored CSRD support, ensuring compliance, building trust, and creating long-term business value.

The EU Green Deal sets an ambitious path toward climate neutrality by 2050, reshaping industries through bold regulatory change. At DNV, we help organizations navigate this transition with tailored expertise across the Green Deal’s key pillars, from circular economy to climate action. Partner with us to ensure compliance, build resilience, and lead in a low-carbon future.