Sustainability reporting is entering a new phase with the rollout of standards issued by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB). Companies will be required to adopt these standards for the financial year ending 31 December 2025, bringing ESG reporting into sharper focus for businesses worldwide, including Singapore.
The ISSB framework builds on the principles of the Taskforce on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), which set out 11 recommendations, and is organised around four key themes:
- Governance
- Strategy
- Risk Management
- Metrics and Targets
What sets the ISSB apart is its demand for more detailed and transparent disclosures, particularly on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions:
- Scope 1 – Direct emissions from a company’s own operations, such as its facilities or transport vehicles.
- Scope 2 – Indirect emissions from purchased energy, such as electricity or heating.
- Scope 3 – Indirect emissions from the wider value chain, including business travel, use of sold products, or emissions from suppliers’ goods and services.
Singapore’s Local ESG and Carbon Tax Landscape
In Singapore, ESG compliance is gaining momentum with mandatory sustainability reporting for listed companies under the Singapore Exchange (SGX) guidelines, and increasing scrutiny from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) for financial institutions. Companies are also preparing for future expansions in the carbon tax, which currently applies to large emitters and is expected to gradually increase in scope and rates to meet Singapore’s net-zero targets.
This evolving local framework makes it essential for Singapore businesses – especially SMEs that make up 99% of the economy – to strengthen their financial governance, compliance processes, and reporting systems. Proper preparation ensures companies can meet regulatory requirements while demonstrating environmental responsibility to stakeholders.
At NS Global Consultants Pte. Ltd., we support businesses with corporate secretarial, bookkeeping, compilation, and tax services tailored to help you navigate ESG reporting and sustainability obligations. By establishing accurate reporting and governance processes, your company can stay compliant, manage risks, and seize opportunities in the green economy.
Contact us today to learn how we can help your business prepare for ISSB reporting and Singapore’s evolving ESG regulations.