As the financial sector is becoming more advanced, and plays a significant part in eco-friendly measures taken in the business world. The incorporation of sustainability reporting and green accounting practices has become mandatory; the trend has influenced the global financial sectors and is expected to grow in the coming years. Employers seek finance professionals who have expertise in sustainable reporting to keep their organization’s financial department stronger and competent in the global market.
On the contrary, the qualification of ACCA in the UK is always welcoming new industry changes and updates to make their professionals stand out. Hence, this trend has influenced the curriculum of the ACCA qualification as well, enabling ACCA professionals to have a good understanding of the application of sustainable reporting. ACCA sustainability reporting skills have equipped aspiring professionals to thrive in the modern finance industry, where green accounting practices are in high demand.
Want to know what changes students can adapt to give an exceptional performance during ACCA sustainability reporting practices? Here is all the essential information you need to know to enhance your skills.
1: UPDATES IN CURRICULUM:
To understand ACCA sustainability reporting, aspirants first need to familiarize themselves with the changes made in the curriculum to plan their study pattern according to it. Since September 2024, the SBR (Strategic Business Reporting) module of ACCA in the UK has added new learning objectives on the IFRS sustainability disclosure standards known as IFRS S1 & S2. In these learning objectives, students are required to assess disclosure of climate-related opportunities and risks and understand the non-compliance implications as well as the effectiveness of IFRS-aligned sustainability data.
2: REGULATORY MOMENTUM:
For finance professionals, it is quite essential to comply with local as well as global regulations; hence, aspirants are advised to familiarize themselves and keep up with regulatory compliance while following ACCA sustainability reporting standards. Some of the recent essential updates in regulations regarding sustainable reporting includes UK’s plan to adapt IFRS S1 & S2 through ISSB- based sustainability reporting standards, SDR (Sustainability Disclosure Requirements) on funds investing is being updated by FCA, and FRC is consulting over a UK version of ISSA5000 to take an effect; which is a sustainability assurance.
3: CPD FOR STUDENTS AND TRAINEES:
To be the best at ACCA sustainability reporting skills, aspirants are advised to concentrate on CPD (Continuous Professional Development) practices and stay competent by getting all the essential updates about the changes in this area. There are specific ACCA events/programmes that can help you grow your expertise in sustainable accounting, such as ‘Power sustainable business’ (an online conference covering essential areas like ISSA5000, IFRS S1/S2, carbon accounting, etc). Another effective programme for ACCA sustainability reporting is the ‘Sustainability in Finance Programme’, which helps you get in-depth knowledge and skills about various areas.
Other than that, students can also utilize the guides published by ACCA about Sustainability Reporting and the preparation guide.
HOW DOES IT AFFECT THE EXAM PREPARATION OF ACCA ASPIRANTS?
This change is an obvious and significant one; it affects the curriculum and requires aspirants to adapt to it to achieve academic success. There are various steps students can take to prepare themselves for exams, especially for the modules that cover topics like ACCA sustainability reporting; key steps are given below:
- Comprehensively understand the fundamentals of IFRS S1 and S2.
- Familiarize yourself with assurance frameworks.
- While preparing for SBR, train yourself with good analytical skills, such capability to analyze sustainable data, ethics, and judgment.
- Expect real-world readiness in exams; know the application of the theory learned, etc.
CHECKLIST FOR ACCA STUDENTS:
- Dive deep into topics related to IFRS S1 and S2.
- Familiarize yourself with ISSA 5000 as well as the UK assurance variant.
- Use ACCA preparation guides and attend events to enhance CPD.
- Make sure to apply good judgment and ethics to the question asked.
CONCLUSION:
ACCA sustainability reporting has been given great value both academically as well as professionally in the UK. As businesses in the global market are adapting sustainable practices, hence, the financial sectors are assuredly influenced as well. To ensure ACCA professionals stay relevant in the local and international job market, the qualification of ACCA in the UK has covered this area comprehensively in its curriculum. To perform exceptionally, ACCA students not only need to have a great understanding of IFRS-aligned standards but also showcase analytical skills like ethical judgements, deeper sustainability integration, and analyses of sustainable data.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is sustainable reporting in ACCA? Explain the role.
Ans: ACCA sustainable reporting means disclosure of ESG performance while showcasing accurate financial outcomes. The main purpose behind integrating this reporting practice is to provide an organization’s efforts in maintaining eco-friendly practices and concentrating on long-term goals.
Q2: How to prepare an ACCA sustainability report in 2025?
Ans: Here are some essential steps that can be followed to prepare an effective ACCA sustainability report in 2025:
- Firstly, choose a reporting framework that suits your cause.
- Define the scope and objectives of your report
- Then conduct a materiality assessment
- Gather and Analyze the data
- Structure the report properly
- Ensure internal review and external assurance
Q3: Which are the globally recognized reporting frameworks that you can use?
Ans: The globally recognized reporting frameworks commonly used are IFRS S1/S2, GRI standards, CSRD, and Integrated Reporting etc.
