The UK government has released draft Sustainability Reporting Standards (UK SRS), closely aligned with IFRS S1 and S2, marking a key step in modernizing ESG and carbon neutral strategy disclosures. The move reinforces the UK’s ambition to become a global hub for sustainable finance. 

Modeled on the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) framework, the UK SRS provide a consistent structure for climate and broader ESG disclosures. Among the six proposed UK-specific amendments, the standout feature is a two-year “climate-first” relief, doubling the ISSB’s one-year option. This gives businesses extended time to focus exclusively on climate-related risks and opportunities before addressing broader sustainability topics. 

Another key change removes the delayed publication provision from IFRS S1, ensuring closer alignment between sustainability and financial disclosures. The government is also consulting on the cost-benefit of mandating UK SRS, indicating that mandatory ESG reporting could be on the horizon. 

“These standards will deliver transparent, proportionate reporting that supports investor confidence and sustainable growth,” said Justin Madders, UK Minister for Competition and Markets. 

In tandem, the UK launched consultations on two complementary initiatives: 

• Transition Plan Disclosures: Reinforcing plans to require large companies and financial firms to publish credible net-zero transition strategies, aligned with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C goal. 

• Sustainability Assurance Oversight: Proposing a voluntary registration framework to enhance trust in assurance providers. 

The draft UK SRS aim to drive investment-grade ESG data, improve market trust, and support the UK’s wider carbon neutral strategy. All consultations are open for feedback until September 17, 2025, with final standards expected later this year. 

These measures position the UK at the forefront of sustainable reporting, while balancing regulatory clarity with business flexibility. 

Source: 

https://esgnews.com/uk-releases-draft-sustainability-climate-reporting-standards-aligned-with-ifrs/