Disappointing decision by ISSB Board to delay the creation of a mandatory nature standard but the journey continues

The International Sustainability Standards Board has concluded its meeting today in Beijing, China, without agreeing to introduce a dedicated nature standard – despite strong calls from global sustainability leaders in an open letter to the ISSB Chair published on Monday. The Board has instead approved the development of an IFRS Practice Statement.

The decision by the ISSB Board not to introduce a dedicated standard for nature at this time is a disappointing outcome. The need for businesses and other organizations to track, report on and address their impacts, risks and dependencies on nature is critical and urgent, and the financial materiality of a sustainable planet is undisputed. 

Today’s decision is regrettably out of sync with the science, which shows that coordinated action to protect natural capital is material and urgent, also in relation to climate targets.  

TheISSB decision to integrate requirements on site-specific information  is a welcome aspect, which will facilitate the practical reporting by companies and financial institutions on their impacts and dependencies.

“We stand ready to support the development of a strong Practice Statement, moving towards the introduction of a nature standard for mandatory reporting as soon as possible – for nature as much as for people, business and investors. We all depend on a healthy planet,” said Marco Lambertini, Executive Chair, Nature Positive Initiative Secretariat.

More on the ISSB decision: https://www.ifrs.org/news-and-events/news/2026/05/issb-agrees-proposed-way-forward-nature-related-disclosures/