Geospatial data for sustainability reporting / ESG disclosure
This proposed thesis topic explores the potential of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data to enhance Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting, in response to increasing regulatory demands and stakeholder expectations for transparent, high-quality sustainability disclosures. As compliance frameworks such as the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and global standards like GRI, SASB, and TCFD become more stringent, industries are seeking innovative solutions to measure and communicate their non-financial performance. GIS offers a unique opportunity to provide location-specific insights into key ESG metrics, including environmental impacts, resource consumption, and social equity, allowing companies to better address local challenges while aligning with broader sustainability goals.
The primary objective of this research is to investigate how GIS data can improve the accuracy, transparency, and relevance of ESG reporting, particularly in light of increasing regulatory pressure. Students can explore how GIS-based insights can be applied to visualize localized environmental and social impacts, and assess how such tools can support organizations in meeting compliance requirements while contributing to more meaningful sustainability practices. The study will also examine the growing demand for GIS in ESG reporting and its transformative potential in enhancing the comparability and effectiveness of non-financial disclosures. Specific objectives may include evaluating case studies of GIS applications in sustainability reporting, exploring integration challenges, and identifying barriers related to data availability and technological constraints.
The research will adopt a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative techniques. The first phase will involve a scoping literature review to assess current studies on the use of GIS in sustainability and ESG reporting. This review will identify trends, gaps, and best practices, as well as explore how GIS is being utilized across industries, including existing GIS-based tools. In the next phase, empirical data will be collected through case studies of organizations currently integrating GIS into their ESG reporting processes. Additionally, interviews or surveys will be conducted with professionals in the field to gather insights on the practical challenges and opportunities of using GIS in sustainability reporting. By combining these methods, the research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of GIS in enhancing ESG disclosures and fostering more effective, locally relevant sustainability strategies.
This topic may offer opportunities to contribute to the ongoing research projects and connect the relevant internship.
Sustainability is a wicked problem, with complex challenges that vary across governance levels and local contexts. GIS data offers a powerful tool for addressing these issues by providing location-specific insights into environmental and social impacts, such as regional water usage or biodiversity risks. This understanding underpinned by insights from spatial data helps organizations identify more targeted sustainability strategies. As regulatory frameworks like the EU CSRD and global non-financial disclosure standards tighten, GIS data becomes crucial for compliance, enhancing the accuracy and transparency of reporting. By incorporating GIS insights, companies can ensure their sustainability disclosures are credible and relevant, reflecting the true scope of their impacts.