Sustainability Communication Agency

ESG reporting focuses on reporting goals, measures, and key performance indicators (KPIs) based on reporting standards (e.g., ESRS, VSME, GRI). It fulfills regulatory requirements. Credible sustainability communication goes one step further: it translates this content into clear, understandable messages for relevant target groups and addresses them via various communication channels.

Because their stakeholders are increasingly demanding transparency. ESG reporting standards result in complex sets of data that are very difficult to read. Credible sustainability communication translates these into easy-to-understand, visually appealing, and target-group-appropriate communication materials. This strengthens the company’s reputation as a future-proof organization.

When employees understand what the company stands for and which goals are being pursued, their identification increases. In this context, sustainability acts as a signal for responsibility, future viability, and value orientation—key factors for both recruiting and retention.

Because customers, investors, and business partners are increasingly demanding ESG data and reliable information (e.g., on CO₂, supply chains, standards). Continuous and transparent sustainability communication shows target groups where the company stands, what steps are planned, and which data is reliably available. This builds long-term trust.

Green claims are environment-related advertising statements (e.g., “climate-neutral” or “environmentally friendly”) that are quickly perceived as misleading if corresponding evidence is missing. This can lead not only to a loss of reputation but also to legal consequences due to the EmpCo Directive (EU 2024/825: “Directive on Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition”).

By thinking first, acting second, and only then talking about it. This means: establishing a systematic sustainability management system that defines material topics, goals, and measures, and prepares measurable key performance indicators (KPIs). Then, starting the implementation of these measures while continuously communicating and proving progress with reliable data. This is the only way to build long-term trust—with both internal and external target groups.

Depending on company size, reporting obligations, and stakeholder requirements, different frameworks may be relevant. The important thing is: the report is not just a “duty,” but a vital foundation from which target-group-oriented messages and communication formats for credible sustainability communication can be derived. Those who limit their communication strictly to the standard-compliant report are wasting opportunities for their own reputation and competitive visibility.

A meaningful process starts with structure and clarity: prioritizing topics, securing data sources, defining goals and KPIs, planning content editorially, and then translating it into appropriate formats (report, short version, website, PR). A systematic approach reduces effort, increases quality, and improves consistency.

Typical services include:

This results in credible, consistent sustainability communication with a clear common thread—instead of talking sporadically about isolated measures.

Flagship projects are initiatives with high relevance and visibility that align with the core business and demonstrate real impact. Suitable examples are often found in areas such as resource efficiency, waste reduction, the circular economy, supply chain management, or one’s role as an employer. The frequently communicated “flower meadow” is not a suitable flagship project. Such measures are often perceived as purely symbolic if they lack a connection to the core business. Stakeholders increasingly expect impact on core issues—not just “nice-to-have” actions.

Because media, NGOs, and other stakeholders can quickly trigger public debates through critical inquiries. Those who have prepared their messages, evidence, and positioning can respond confidently—and minimize risks from the outset by avoiding misleading or misunderstood statements.

As a partner of the Center for Sustainable Corporate Development (ZNU) and with its own sustainability management certified according to the ZNU standard, E&Z knows both strategy and implementation from its own practice. This is complemented by years of experience in crisis consultancy and a network in media, NGOs, and science—essential for impactful, credible communication.

We usually start with a kick-off meeting or workshop to define the core topics of the company and its business model within a circle of experts. Based on this, we move on to target group and messaging work, as well as the development of a guiding theme for the sustainability communication. Subsequently, channels are prioritized, formats are planned, and the implementation is supported—including editorial and creative services.