These standards are suitable for organizations of all types and sizes—including global corporations, mid-sized businesses, non-profits, industry associations, and government agencies—interested in reporting on their sustainability practices.

GRI Standards are voluntary in nature. Still, many organizations choose to use them to improve transparency and demonstrate accountability in sustainability practices. In some regions, laws or regulatory bodies may encourage or require ESG reporting, and GRI Standards are often used to meet such expectations.

By adopting GRI Standards, organizations can better understand and manage their impacts on society, the environment, and the economy. This approach enhances stakeholder confidence, supports responsible decision-making, and enables performance comparisons across industries.

The GRI framework consists of three main types of standards: 

• Universal Standards: Cover broad topics relevant to all organizations, such as ethics, governance, and general sustainability impacts. 

• Sector Standards: Tailored to specific industries like Oil & Gas, Coal, and Agriculture—especially those with significant environmental footprints. 

• Topic Standards: Focus on particular areas like Waste, Biodiversity, Energy, Occupational Safety, and Equal Opportunity. 

Organizations should begin by reviewing the standards on the GRI website and identifying which ones are applicable to their operations. A key step involves engaging with internal and external stakeholders to identify material sustainability issues. Joining GRI’s training programs or consulting ESG professionals can also support effective adoption.