Nissan Releases Inaugural ESG Data Book: Sets Example for ESG and GRC Professionals

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., a renowned name in the automotive industry, has taken a significant step towards sustainable and responsible business practices by issuing its inaugural Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) data book. The comprehensive data book aims to provide transparent disclosure of the company's initiatives and progress in environmental, social, and governance aspects.

The ESG data book stands as a testament to Nissan's commitment to creating a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive world. It offers a comprehensive overview of the company's endeavors, covering various data points related to materiality, policies, and the status of ESG efforts. These initiatives include the reduction of carbon footprint across the entire value chain, promoting a circular economy, championing diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as respecting human rights.

Joji Tagawa, Nissan's chief sustainability officer, emphasized the increasing importance of tangible action and transparent data in today's corporate landscape. Stakeholders now demand concrete evidence that companies are truly living up to their ESG commitments. The ESG data book serves as a vital tool in Nissan's continuous dialogue with its stakeholders, fostering better understanding of the company's contributions in these critical areas and strengthening trust.

The period covered by the ESG data book coincides with the conclusion of Nissan's 2018-2022 sustainability strategy, known as Nissan Sustainability 2022. Throughout this time frame, Nissan has successfully achieved its targets in significant areas, notably including noteworthy reductions in CO2 emissions from new vehicles. Additionally, the company actively promoted the innovation and adoption of safety performance-related technologies, striving towards its vision of a world with zero traffic fatalities.

Notably, Nissan has been issuing annual sustainability reports since 2004. This latest milestone, the ESG data book, marks an important step towards further enhancing transparency and accountability. The company has also announced its plan to issue its first integrated report this fiscal year, further integrating sustainability aspects into its overall reporting framework.

Looking forward, Nissan has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing material priorities that align with its corporate purpose of driving innovations to enrich people's lives. The company will continue its dedication to enhancing vehicle electrification, exploring and implementing inclusive mobility solutions, and being a leading advocate for human rights.

Lessons for ESG and GRC Professionals:

Nissan's release of its ESG data book offers valuable insights and lessons for ESG and Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) professionals:

1. Transparency and Accountability: The ESG data book demonstrates the power of transparent reporting. Companies should consider open and detailed disclosure of their ESG initiatives and progress, enabling stakeholders to evaluate their commitments effectively.

2. Tangible Action over Rhetoric: Stakeholders increasingly demand concrete actions and measurable outcomes. ESG professionals should focus on driving tangible results rather than relying solely on aspirational statements.

3. Continuous Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging stakeholders in an ongoing dialogue is critical. ESG and GRC professionals should actively seek feedback and understanding from stakeholders to build trust and enhance the organization's sustainability efforts.

4. Aligning Corporate Purpose with ESG Priorities: Nissan's focus on driving innovations to enrich people's lives aligns its corporate purpose with its ESG priorities. ESG professionals should ensure that sustainability efforts are deeply integrated into the organization's core values and strategies.

Nissan's ESG data book sets an exemplary benchmark for ESG reporting and reinforces the importance of incorporating sustainability into the heart of corporate operations. By learning from Nissan's initiatives, ESG and GRC professionals can pave the way for a more sustainable and responsible business landscape, ensuring a positive impact on both the environment and society.