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History of Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)

Spearheaded by Ceres (www.ceres.org) in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Global Reporting Initiative was established in 1997 with the mission of developing globally applicable guidelines for reporting on the economic, environmental, and social performance of corporations, governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). GRI incorporates the active participation of corporations, NGOs, accountancy organizations, business associations and other stakeholders from around the world.

The GRI's Sustainability Reporting Guidelines first released in draft form in 1999, and published in 2006, represent the first global framework for comprehensive sustainability reporting, encompassing the "triple bottom line" of economic, environmental and social issues.

In 2002, the GRI was established as a permanent, independent, international body with a multi-stakeholder governance structure. Now based in Amsterdam, its core mission is maintenance, enhancement, and dissemination of the guidelines through a process of ongoing consultation and stakeholder engagement.

In 2006 there were over 850 organizations worldwide reporting using GRI. Today, there are well over 1,000 companies planning and reporting based on GRI guidelines, and this vibrant community continues to grow.

On top of the general guidelines, GRI has also developed sector supplements for several industry-specific sectors. These guidelines address sustainability issues related to that sector.

Sustainability reports based on the GRI framework can be used to benchmark organizational performance with respect to laws, norms, codes, performance standards and voluntary initiatives; demonstrate organizational commitment to sustainable development; and compare organizational performance over time.

For further information visit the Global Reporting Initiative website or contact us.