Hi Reader,

Reading through the latest Alexforbes Sustainability Reporting Sentiment Survey (link here), I found myself conflicted.

On the surface, it paints a promising picture:

• 70.5% of participants support mandatory sustainability reporting
• 42.2% support double materiality
• Most want alignment with global frameworks like and ISSB, but tailored to SA’s local context

But here’s what’s bothering me: that’s not what I’m hearing on the ground.

Across conversations with ESG leads, CFOs, and even board members -particularly in listed and high-profile businesses - the sentiment feels more weary than bullish. The reality for many? Reporting season means three months underground, scrambling for data, managing upwards, and hoping the report lands without too much reputational risk.

The stated challenges in the report - resource constraints, data gaps, standard complexity, and cost - are very real. But what’s striking is how few feel the effort is delivering proportionate value. In fact, I’ve only come across a handful of stories where reporting outputs materially shifted cost of capital, boosted investor confidence, or secured a competitive edge. Most of the time, it feels like a grudge spend - necessary, but exhausting.

So here’s what I’m wondering:

• If you or your team completed this survey, do the results reflect your reality?
• Do you believe ESG reporting in your organisation is delivering meaningful ROI?
• Are we seeing positive sentiment in public, but quiet frustration behind the scenes?

I’m genuinely curious - and open to correction. Maybe I’m misreading the room.

But I’d love to hear from you: are you navigating this differently? If so, how?

And now a change of gear if you've got another 90 seconds...