Companies are looking for an interactive dialogue with their stakeholders. One-way communication changes in two-way communication via new media messaging that promotes (inter)action. Transparency is an important driver behind this changing environment.

Telefónica
A good example of transparent and effective reporting on sustainability can be found at the Spanish telecommunication company Telefónica. As one of the largest in the industry and sector leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI), Telefónica is showing leadership on reporting. The CSR reports are divided into three blocks. The first one is dealing with UN Global Compact, GRI and DJSI and provides cross referencing between the various standards. The second block goes deeper into relevant Telefónica issues and the third block contains local projects and goals. Telefónica explains sustainability information from global to local. 

Earthkeepers
Communicating on sustainability occurs more and more via new media platforms such as blogs, Twitter, Facebook, Youtube and podcasts. Clothing Brand Timberland launched the interactive website Earthkeepers to communicate on sustainability issues. Timberland also chose to report quarterly on sustainability instead of the traditional annual reports.

Interaction
Examples of frontrunners on transparent and efficient reporting show that interaction with stakeholders is becoming more important. Using social media, promote (inter)action and provide information in smaller amounts in higher frequencies helps to make sustainability reporting more effective and transparent.

For more information on effective and transparent CR communication, please contact us at hello@finchandbeak.com.