From Polls to Policies: Workiva Report Highlights Resilience in Climate Disclosures

As the dust settles from over 70 national elections worldwide, it has become clear that business leaders are no longer letting political outcomes dictate their climate strategies. A recent Workiva survey of 1,600 global executives underscores this shift. Despite the uncertainty surrounding regulatory frameworks, an overwhelming 85% of executives plan to push forward with climate disclosures regardless of election results or geopolitical developments.

This steadfast approach is more than just a reaction to external pressures; it’s rooted in the undeniable financial value of transparency. Nearly all respondents (97%) agree that integrating financial and ESG data not only enhances accountability but also reveals opportunities for growth by identifying performance gaps.

The numbers tell a story of resilience and intent. Companies aren’t just passively responding to mandates—they’re actively embedding sustainability into their DNA. Greenhouse gas emissions, climate risks, and material impacts remain at the forefront of corporate reporting priorities. Even in the face of shifting political landscapes, 85% of executives plan to disclose emissions, while 83% will highlight climate risks and 82% will outline the material impacts of those risks.

The message is clear: transparency in climate reporting is no longer optional—it’s essential for staying competitive and relevant in an increasingly conscientious marketplace.

A Global Momentum for Regulation

While executives take the reins on sustainability, they’re also preparing for a wave of regulatory changes expected to sweep across industries and borders. More than half of U.S. executives anticipate new or expanded ESG regulations within the next year, reflecting a broader shift in governance.

This sentiment isn’t confined to one region. In the United Kingdom, 60% of respondents foresee regulatory tightening. In Brazil and Singapore, optimism for stricter frameworks climbs to 78% and 80%, respectively, demonstrating a global appetite for clearer, more robust disclosure standards.

Amid these developments, the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) has become a beacon for global alignment. Even companies outside its jurisdiction are embracing its principles, with 75% of non-compliant firms indicating plans to align their practices with the directive. Institutional investors, too, are taking note—96% now view regulated sustainability disclosures as essential for making informed decisions, up from 92% last year.

Mandi McReynolds, Vice President of Global ESG and Chief Sustainability Officer at Workiva, captures the evolving mindset driving these trends, “After 70+ national elections worldwide, a powerful shift is underway. Leaders are no longer just reacting—they’re proactively building resilience and adaptability into their strategies. At the heart of this transformation, our 6,000+ global customers are crafting dynamic business data and reporting models that thrive amidst economic and geopolitical change.”

Her perspective highlights a critical turning point - sustainability isn’t just about meeting obligations. It’s about leveraging transparency as a strategic tool to navigate the complexities of modern business.

Challenges on the Horizon

Despite the optimism, significant challenges remain. Inflation and interest rates top the list of concerns for business reporting over the next two years, cited by 38% of respondents. Legislative and policy changes aren’t far behind at 35%, underscoring the uncertainty that still clouds the path forward.

Yet, these obstacles haven’t deterred executives from their commitment to sustainable practices. Instead, they’ve become part of a broader strategy to build resilience and foster long-term growth.

As businesses brace for what lies ahead, it is certain that the commitment to sustainability is no longer just about compliance. It’s a testament to a deeper understanding of how transparency and accountability drive value—not just for shareholders but for society at large.

In a world where politics often sets the stage, it’s refreshing to see executives charting their own course. This is not merely a story of compliance but of leadership—a movement that prioritizes what truly matters, ensuring that businesses don’t just survive the future but thrive in it.

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