Talking ESG: What should the ISSB focus on next?

The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) published its Consultation on Agenda Priorities in May 2023. Now that the final IFRS S1 and S2 standards have been issued, the ISSB is asking constituents to weigh in on the board’s focus areas and research projects for the next two years.

What should companies consider when preparing to comment on this request? This week, Heather Horn was joined by Andreas Ohl, PwC’s Global Sustainability Technical Leader, to discuss the options laid out in the board’s agenda consultation, and the factors companies may want to contemplate in their responses.

In this episode, you’ll hear discussion of:

• 2:15 - What the ISSB says it is looking to accomplish with this agenda consultation
• 6:52 - A potential research project on biodiversity, ecosystems, and ecosystem services
• 15:02 - A potential research project on human capital
• 17:56 - A potential research project on human rights
• 25:19 - Previous feedback the ISSB and IASB received to consider ways to work jointly on key projects
• 30:18 - The ISSB’s separate consultation on enhancing the international applicability of the SASB® Standards
• 32:43 - Final advice for companies wanting to comment on the ISSB agenda consultation

Looking for more information on the ISSB and ESG reporting? Check out our podcast with ISSB Vice-Chair Sue Lloyd on the launch of the final ISSB standards. For more on the final standards, read our In brief. 

Andreas Ohl is a partner in PwC's National Office focused on thought leadership, standard setting, and mergers and acquisitions under US GAAP and IFRS. In addition to his US responsibilities, he leads the sustainability topic team for the PwC global network. Andreas is chairman of the Business Valuation Standards Board at the International Valuation Standards Council, is a member of the working group that authored the AICPA's in-process R&D guide, and has served as a member of the FASB's Valuation Resource Group.

Heather Horn is PwC’s National office thought leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting and financial reporting matters. She is the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series. With over 30 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.