WEBVTT

00:00:04.589 --> 00:00:13.759
Welcome to the Transparency Benchmark.

00:00:13.759 --> 00:00:17.920
The Kick-off of the Transparency Benchmark
2023.

00:00:17.920 --> 00:00:20.650
So nice of you to be here.

00:00:20.650 --> 00:00:26.380
I'm Fiona, and I'm delighted to be able to attend this edition, just like last year

00:00:26.380 --> 00:00:31.480
To share with you the latest developments
in the field of transparent CSR reporting

00:00:31.480 --> 00:00:35.239
And what this last year’s edition will entail. 

00:00:35.239 --> 00:00:36.980
In this form, as we know it now.

00:00:36.980 --> 00:00:40.010
But first: why are we here together?

00:00:40.010 --> 00:00:44.850
The government asks companies to be transparent
about their policies and activities

00:00:44.850 --> 00:00:47.579
Corporate social responsibility policies and activities.

00:00:47.579 --> 00:00:53.140
The Transparency Benchmark charts how transparent Dutch companies are

00:00:53.140 --> 00:00:54.309
about this.

00:00:54.309 --> 00:01:01.340
And that way, stakeholders, consumers,
shareholders and other stakeholders can

00:01:01.340 --> 00:01:06.360
form an idea of the CSR performance and thus make better informed decisions about how they should

00:01:06.360 --> 00:01:08.979
Or want to deal with a company.

00:01:08.979 --> 00:01:11.509
And we're in an odd year.

00:01:11.509 --> 00:01:18.479
That means the permanent research group
of, in short, the 500 largest companies

00:01:18.479 --> 00:01:24.450
in the Netherlands are being investigated on their qualitative
and quantitative development 

00:01:24.450 --> 00:01:25.860
of CSR reporting.

00:01:25.860 --> 00:01:31.750
All these 500 organizations have also
received an invitation to complete a self -assessment

00:01:31.750 --> 00:01:32.750

00:01:32.750 --> 00:01:36.939
All parties are assessed, but the self-assessment also gives you the chance to get 

00:01:36.939 --> 00:01:42.219
additional information and insight
on your reporting as a whole.

00:01:42.219 --> 00:01:45.509
This is heartily needed, and not without reason.

00:01:45.509 --> 00:01:50.820
Because the European legislation on this, the CSRD,
it will of course come into force soon.

00:01:50.820 --> 00:01:55.120
And thus it is time to take a deep dive
in what this means

00:01:55.120 --> 00:01:59.920
And what to look out for with CSR reporting and
double materiality.

00:01:59.920 --> 00:02:04.250
What major important changes are taking place?

00:02:04.250 --> 00:02:07.250
And what support can you expect from
government?

00:02:07.250 --> 00:02:12.000
We are going to talk about it with experts, and in
the second part of our program you can also

00:02:12.000 --> 00:02:14.610
ask them questions through the chat.

00:02:14.610 --> 00:02:19.880
The Transparency Benchmark is commissioned on behalf of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and 

00:02:19.880 --> 00:02:21.400
Climate Policy
00:02:21.400 --> 00:02:27.190
And that is why we welcome today, management-member of the Directorate of Business Climate of the Ministry EA: Ilknur Dönmez.

00:02:27.190 --> 00:02:28.220
Hi Ilknur .

00:02:28.220 --> 00:02:29.250
Hi Fiona.

00:02:29.250 --> 00:02:31.140
Glad you're here.

00:02:31.140 --> 00:02:33.170
Nice to be here today.

00:02:33.170 --> 00:02:36.200
You are here to do the opening speech
on behalf of EACP.

00:02:36.200 --> 00:02:41.010
But before this job, you also worked in the private sector for quite some time.

00:02:41.010 --> 00:02:43.660
How do you view CSR reporting from that perspective?

00:02:43.660 --> 00:02:48.220
I think it's great that this is happening now.

00:02:48.220 --> 00:02:51.819
I've been working for the government for about 16 years now.

00:02:51.819 --> 00:02:55.349
And before that I spent 10 years in the corporate sector

00:02:55.349 --> 00:02:59.250
And at that time I was working for an ICT consultancy
company.

00:02:59.250 --> 00:03:01.920
We mainly worked for banks and insurance companies.

00:03:01.920 --> 00:03:06.720
And yet on the level for banks, maybe CSR played a role, but because we were focused 

00:03:06.720 --> 00:03:09.290
On the IT side as a company, for us CSR didn’t play a role at all.

00:03:09.290 --> 00:03:13.659
You can't imagine that now, because
you think – it is valid for every company.

00:03:13.659 --> 00:03:16.770
But at the time that wasn't an issue
it was more about

00:03:16.770 --> 00:03:19.030
What was in the newspapers which was, in particular
child labor.

00:03:19.030 --> 00:03:22.300
Because everyone was talking about that.

00:03:22.300 --> 00:03:24.170
Yes
So, I think there has actually been a really nice 

00:03:24.170 --> 00:03:27.360
development in recent years.

00:03:27.360 --> 00:03:28.990
And that it is becoming increasingly important.

00:03:28.990 --> 00:03:30.720
There was no mention of sustainability at all.

00:03:30.720 --> 00:03:33.590
No, I think it was also called 'environment' back then.

00:03:33.590 --> 00:03:36.550
Yes exactly, everything also
got new terms.

00:03:36.550 --> 00:03:39.530
Good, good to hear.

00:03:39.530 --> 00:03:41.099
I now give the floor to you.

00:03:41.099 --> 00:03:42.099
Yes thank you.

00:03:42.099 --> 00:03:44.790
Also on my behalf of and on behalf of the Ministry of
Economic Affairs and Climate Policy, I would like to welcome everyone

00:03:44.790 --> 00:03:47.350
As well.

00:03:47.350 --> 00:03:51.220
It is, as you also said, an extra special
moment.

00:03:51.220 --> 00:03:57.120
Today is not only the start of 
this year's Transparency Benchmark,

00:03:57.120 --> 00:04:00.379
but it's also the last one that will be held in
this form.

00:04:00.379 --> 00:04:05.750
And also the last time the corresponding
Crystal Prize is awarded in this way.

00:04:05.750 --> 00:04:12.540
That will be in November, when we announce the results and the winner.

00:04:12.540 --> 00:04:19.940
The Transparency Benchmark exists since 2004, so almost 20 years indeed.

00:04:19.940 --> 00:04:24.780
It has contributed greatly at putting sustainability reporting on the agenda 

00:04:24.780 --> 00:04:26.320
for companies.

00:04:26.320 --> 00:04:32.070
And it is also good to see that the number of active participants is still growing.

00:04:32.070 --> 00:04:40.280
Transparency on how companies do corporate social responsibility is as relevant as ever.

00:04:40.280 --> 00:04:42.840
And perhaps it is becoming more and more relevant.

00:04:42.840 --> 00:04:48.890
As the Netherlands, we have great ambitions
in the field of climate, sustainability and energy.

00:04:48.890 --> 00:04:54.510
And the mission of the Ministry of Economic
Affairs and Climate Policy is also striving for 

00:04:54.510 --> 00:04:56.070
sustainable economic growth.

00:04:56.070 --> 00:05:01.030
Personally, I really like the term I once heard from a Fleming.

00:05:01.030 --> 00:05:02.850
Which was, a 'sustainable economy'.

00:05:02.850 --> 00:05:08.170
An economy that is maintainable not only for us,

00:05:08.170 --> 00:05:09.550
but also for our children and grandchildren

00:05:09.550 --> 00:05:14.009
And that's where those economic aspects come into play, those
are important.

00:05:14.009 --> 00:05:19.760
There is increasing attention
for the responsible treatment of people and the environment.

00:05:19.760 --> 00:05:26.460
And to realize these ambitions
we also need your help as entrepreneurs.

00:05:26.460 --> 00:05:33.229
For in these transitions you deliver a
important contribution to a more green and

00:05:33.229 --> 00:05:35.030
circular economy in the Netherlands.

00:05:35.030 --> 00:05:41.570
And it is also becoming increasingly important to take accountability for this.

00:05:41.570 --> 00:05:43.990
Increasingly important for your customers.

00:05:43.990 --> 00:05:46.840
Increasingly important for society as a whole.

00:05:46.840 --> 00:05:53.420
Anyone who in recent weeks, has
kept an eye on the newspapers,

00:05:53.420 --> 00:05:57.550
has seen the number of articles about
this topic explode.

00:05:57.550 --> 00:06:05.510
It demands a lot of attention and it also determines
the ' license to operate ' of

00:06:05.510 --> 00:06:07.539
our companies.

00:06:07.539 --> 00:06:14.280
With that, the relevance of reporting on non-financial topics is also increasing.

00:06:14.280 --> 00:06:19.849
For example, as you also mentioned, with the
arrival of European regulations – the CSRD:

00:06:19.849 --> 00:06:22.230
the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive.

00:06:22.230 --> 00:06:23.900
I always have to peek for that one…

00:06:23.900 --> 00:06:29.389
Yes, it's quite a mouthful
And this objective, these regulations, have

00:06:29.389 --> 00:06:31.900
a similar objective as our Transparency Benchmark.

00:06:31.900 --> 00:06:34.890
As said before: this edition will be the last one in this 
form.

00:06:34.890 --> 00:06:39.990
We have decided, in consultation with all stakeholders, 
to use the Transparency Benchmark and the

00:06:39.990 --> 00:06:43.250
Crystal price, at least in this form, too
to end.

00:06:43.250 --> 00:06:49.720
We have already stated that
the Transparency Benchmark measures how transparent

00:06:49.720 --> 00:06:55.599
the Dutch companies are with regards to social reporting 

00:06:55.599 --> 00:07:01.240
This not only gives us insight as government,
you just mentioned the customers, but

00:07:01.240 --> 00:07:03.940
also most importantly, yourself.

00:07:03.940 --> 00:07:05.650
So your company: where do you stand?

00:07:05.650 --> 00:07:08.030
What progress have you made?

00:07:08.030 --> 00:07:14.070
It can also challenge you to be transparent
about how sustainability is involved in the

00:07:14.070 --> 00:07:18.599
business strategy, what the successes are,
what challenges are involved.

00:07:18.599 --> 00:07:24.009
I believe that with the next speakers there
there will be more room to come back to that.

00:07:24.009 --> 00:07:29.360
And companies that do well in these areas
do have - in my opinion - too

00:07:29.360 --> 00:07:35.569
the best long-term prospect to be successful
and to be profitable in that new sustainable

00:07:35.569 --> 00:07:37.300
economy.

00:07:37.300 --> 00:07:43.860
An additional advantage is that our Transparency Benchmark
is a very good preparation for the CSRD

00:07:43.860 --> 00:07:49.050
– which will come into force in phases from 2024.

00:07:49.050 --> 00:07:54.350
This year's closing event will therefore also focus on the CSRD.

00:07:54.350 --> 00:07:59.040
Also, with the results of
the Transparency Benchmark we will award the Crystal Prize

00:07:59.040 --> 00:08:00.040

00:08:00.040 --> 00:08:07.030
This is a price, as mentioned earlier, of
the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy

00:08:07.030 --> 00:08:09.840
and the Dutch Association of Accountants.

00:08:09.840 --> 00:08:14.230
This award is awarded to the company
with the best CSR reporting.

00:08:14.230 --> 00:08:20.090
The Crystal Prize Jury, led by Monika Milz,
selects the winner based on the results

00:08:20.090 --> 00:08:21.710
of the Transparency Benchmark.

00:08:21.710 --> 00:08:25.629
In any case, I am extremely looking forward to it.

00:08:25.629 --> 00:08:30.090
I hope to see each other again November 28 for
this award ceremony and event.

00:08:30.090 --> 00:08:32.890
I am very much looking forward to that.

00:08:32.890 --> 00:08:33.890
Thank you, Ilknur .

00:08:33.890 --> 00:08:37.950
I am also very curious about a future interpretation of this event.

00:08:37.950 --> 00:08:44.420
We have a question for the viewer,
to see whether or not it is the first time

00:08:44.420 --> 00:08:46.670
that people participate in the Transparency Benchmark.

00:08:46.670 --> 00:08:52.350
If all goes well, a pop-up will now appear
and everyone should be able to answer the question.

00:08:52.350 --> 00:08:57.810
We present you the statement: this is the first
year that my company participates in the Transparency Benchmark.

00:08:57.810 --> 00:09:03.290
Of course, this is also the last chance, so
I would say, grab this chance.

00:09:03.290 --> 00:09:06.110
The score is still changing.

00:09:06.110 --> 00:09:08.110
So I'll wait a little longer.

00:09:08.110 --> 00:09:15.020
I think we have all answers. 15% states they are participating for the first time.

00:09:15.020 --> 00:09:20.170
85% have already participated one or more times.

00:09:20.170 --> 00:09:27.010
Well, I think it's really nice to see
that there are 15% new participants.

00:09:27.010 --> 00:09:28.010
Certainly.

00:09:28.010 --> 00:09:31.620
Also very happy with the 85% that it has participated before.

00:09:31.620 --> 00:09:32.620
Very happy.

00:09:32.620 --> 00:09:36.010
But it also indicates indeed that new companies are joining in.

00:09:36.010 --> 00:09:43.420
So it’s not just that you’re being looked at, but that you’re actively participating in it

00:09:43.420 --> 00:09:46.930
that is a very good signal for us,
the involvement of companies.

00:09:46.930 --> 00:09:47.930
Absolutely.

00:09:47.930 --> 00:09:48.930
Thank you, Ilknur Dönmez.

00:09:48.930 --> 00:09:49.930
Thank you.

00:09:49.930 --> 00:09:55.300
And then we move on to the next poll question,
because I'm also curious about all those people

00:09:55.300 --> 00:09:57.279
who also just answered the first question.

00:09:57.279 --> 00:10:01.310
In which sector is your company active?

00:10:01.310 --> 00:10:04.080
Then choose whatever is most applicable.

00:10:04.080 --> 00:10:10.080
Is that health care, sport and well-being,
trade and services, ICT, environment and

00:10:10.080 --> 00:10:11.080
agricultural?

00:10:11.080 --> 00:10:15.870
There are many answers, I won't read them all out loud.

00:10:15.870 --> 00:10:21.380
I see quite a few people from trade and services.

00:10:21.380 --> 00:10:25.180
Also quite a bit from ‘other’ sectors.

00:10:25.180 --> 00:10:28.089
So we seem to have forgotten some answers.

00:10:28.089 --> 00:10:32.740
Technology, production and construction is also being
represented.

00:10:32.740 --> 00:10:34.910
Good, very nice to see.

00:10:34.910 --> 00:10:39.470
So a very diverse audience from all kinds
branches.

00:10:39.470 --> 00:10:43.120
Thank you for your answers.

00:10:43.120 --> 00:10:47.720
Now let's move on to the next topic:
trends and developments.

00:10:47.720 --> 00:11:07.250
The Transparency Benchmark started in 2004
– that was a whole different time.

00:11:07.250 --> 00:11:11.010
Britney Spears was still on the charts,
the first season of tv show: ‘Farmer seeks Wife’

00:11:11.010 --> 00:11:15.990
and it was the year of the introduction of same-sex marriage
– if we look at social

00:11:15.990 --> 00:11:17.330
developments.

00:11:17.330 --> 00:11:22.800
And it was the year that the Transparency Benchmark 
started.

00:11:22.800 --> 00:11:27.460
We're going to talk about that, about the development of CSR movements.

00:11:27.460 --> 00:11:33.620
And we do that together with the chairman of
the Panel of Experts: Giuseppe van der

00:11:33.620 --> 00:11:34.620
Helm.

00:11:34.620 --> 00:11:35.620
Hi Giuseppe
Hi Fiona

00:11:35.620 --> 00:11:36.620
Glad you're here.

00:11:36.620 --> 00:11:40.769
Let's start first: what is the role of
the Panel of Experts?

00:11:40.769 --> 00:11:43.580
Yes, because it hadn't been mentioned yet – that
panel.

00:11:43.580 --> 00:11:49.930
EY gets to work with all the assessments filled in by participants,
and a ranking comes out of that.

00:11:49.930 --> 00:11:50.930
A Top 20..

00:11:50.930 --> 00:11:51.930
Of those 500..

00:11:51.930 --> 00:11:57.779
Out of the 500 participating companies, comes a Top 20, those 20 companies
are presented to the Panel of Experts.

00:11:57.779 --> 00:12:02.430
A group of, that changes quite often, 
More or less 10 people of different

00:12:02.430 --> 00:12:03.529
backgrounds.

00:12:03.529 --> 00:12:07.449
Important is diversity - some come
from civil society, some

00:12:07.449 --> 00:12:10.680
from companies, trade associations, financial
sector, etc.

00:12:10.680 --> 00:12:12.990
And then we're going to look at that Top 20.

00:12:12.990 --> 00:12:15.639
Then we say: all nice and well those assessed scores, but is that correct?

00:12:15.639 --> 00:12:16.639
Do we recognize that?

00:12:16.639 --> 00:12:19.290
Is there something that isn't quite right.

00:12:19.290 --> 00:12:21.260
Should some get some more points and
others less so?

00:12:21.260 --> 00:12:22.660
That is what we are going to work on.

00:12:22.660 --> 00:12:27.370
And after all that work, we re-evaluate the top 20, 

00:12:27.370 --> 00:12:29.040
could be that places have shifted

00:12:29.040 --> 00:12:32.340

00:12:32.340 --> 00:12:37.269
The Top 3 will then eventually go to the
Jury, who have been mentioned allready.

00:12:37.269 --> 00:12:40.040
They ultimately decide who the winner should be

00:12:40.040 --> 00:12:41.730
So they have different criteria they focus on.

00:12:41.730 --> 00:12:46.350
So it doesn’t mean that if you finish as number 5, you can’t win.

00:12:46.350 --> 00:12:48.710
Exactly, maybe the number five selected by EY

00:12:48.710 --> 00:12:52.550
May very well get into the Top 3, and then a Judge

00:12:52.550 --> 00:12:54.930
Can after all decide: no that's number 1.

00:12:54.930 --> 00:12:57.160
And that's not an imaginary example, this
really happened.

00:12:57.160 --> 00:13:01.680
Okay, we'll get into that in a minute – on which specific things you focus. 

00:13:01.680 --> 00:13:03.670
But first let's go back in time.

00:13:03.670 --> 00:13:05.350
I just mentioned it: 2004.

00:13:05.350 --> 00:13:07.449
What was the environment like back then?

00:13:07.449 --> 00:13:10.120
Why was the Transparency Benchmark established
in the first place?

00:13:10.120 --> 00:13:14.180
Well first of all I want to clarify that I haven't been involved from 2004.

00:13:14.180 --> 00:13:17.140
I've been on this panel of Experts for about ten years now

00:13:17.140 --> 00:13:22.360
But at that time, looking back, here was increasing dissatisfaction.

00:13:22.360 --> 00:13:24.110
People asked: should a company only care about finances?

00:13:24.110 --> 00:13:25.240
Is that all that matters?

00:13:25.240 --> 00:13:27.720
That is a very one-dimensional view.

00:13:27.720 --> 00:13:33.340
It was also a time where a number of companies started
reporting on environment, quality, health

00:13:33.340 --> 00:13:36.720
– those reports were established then.

00:13:36.720 --> 00:13:41.709
Back in those days, people still thought: how can we indicate what we are doing in terms of 

00:13:41.709 --> 00:13:42.709
corporate social responsibility?

00:13:42.709 --> 00:13:43.709
On sustainability?

00:13:43.709 --> 00:13:44.930
Long term thinking?

00:13:44.930 --> 00:13:46.839
Of course that could be: the 'do no harm '.

00:13:46.839 --> 00:13:50.110
Yeah guys, what about the CO2 emissions,
can't we reduce it a bit?

00:13:50.110 --> 00:13:52.310
Companies indicated back then: a little less every year.

00:13:52.310 --> 00:13:54.430
Back then, in 2004?

00:13:54.430 --> 00:13:56.820
Well, that came up a bit then, of course.

00:13:56.820 --> 00:13:58.500
What should we report on?

00:13:58.500 --> 00:14:01.750
The climate debate is already over.

00:14:01.750 --> 00:14:05.730
But it could also be: the 'do good ' story.

00:14:05.730 --> 00:14:09.399
What can we do in our chain, for example, by paying a living wage?

00:14:09.399 --> 00:14:13.920
And then gradually the story – it was mentioned as well – was complemented with child labour,

00:14:13.920 --> 00:14:17.810
cluster investments, incidents.

00:14:17.810 --> 00:14:21.389
There was broader thinking: what are we
on earth for?

00:14:21.389 --> 00:14:24.329
Again, it coincides with the discussion around concepts like 'broad prosperity'

00:14:24.329 --> 00:14:26.800
Do we only become happy from economic gain?

00:14:26.800 --> 00:14:28.180
Or are there other factors?

00:14:28.180 --> 00:14:31.930
What is the role of a company in society?

00:14:31.930 --> 00:14:34.290
And entrepreneurs naturally like to think long term

00:14:34.290 --> 00:14:39.250
Then parties such as GRI also emerged, who said:
we will help you to come up with a format

00:14:39.250 --> 00:14:42.089
for a good sustainability report, at least standards

00:14:42.089 --> 00:14:43.089
And those standards gradually integrated in a report.

00:14:43.089 --> 00:14:44.850
Because they said: where should be put such a report?

00:14:44.850 --> 00:14:46.149
Let's put them together.

00:14:46.149 --> 00:14:51.180
And to help companies in that early period
- of course there was a lot unclear.

00:14:51.180 --> 00:14:52.500
How do we do that?

00:14:52.500 --> 00:14:54.529
Now what's the best way to do that?

00:14:54.529 --> 00:14:56.139
Then a few things always help very well.

00:14:56.139 --> 00:14:58.040
Comparisons with each other.

00:14:58.040 --> 00:15:01.560
Share your good practices – and companies
looked around, of course.

00:15:01.560 --> 00:15:03.279
And the government also jumped into that gap.

00:15:03.279 --> 00:15:08.860
So that’s when they thought: Let's make a benchmark to see
– what are those criteria 

00:15:08.860 --> 00:15:09.860
In terms of transparency?

00:15:09.860 --> 00:15:11.980
Yes, exactly
Because sustainability was something we did not yet agree on,

00:15:11.980 --> 00:15:14.050
but transparency was something everybody could agree on.

00:15:14.050 --> 00:15:15.050
Friend and foe.

00:15:15.050 --> 00:15:17.220
And think also of investors, who also found that format very relevant 

00:15:17.220 --> 00:15:20.269
And thus, there emerged formats for transparency.

00:15:20.269 --> 00:15:22.220
Companies started comparing that.

00:15:22.220 --> 00:15:25.090
And such a benchmark, ultimately, leads to two things:

00:15:25.090 --> 00:15:29.970
It sets criteria: this is it, so if you want
get started - take a look at these criteria.

00:15:29.970 --> 00:15:34.839
And what it does, secondly, is that it
has a certain effect on companies.

00:15:34.839 --> 00:15:39.420
That hopefully no self-respecting one
entrepreneur or executive will accept that they 

00:15:39.420 --> 00:15:41.050
End up outside of the Top 10.

00:15:41.050 --> 00:15:42.889
Exactly, we all want to win.

00:15:42.889 --> 00:15:46.420
And if you look at how it was back then,
and how it is now.

00:15:46.420 --> 00:15:47.959
How did that progress then?

00:15:47.959 --> 00:15:50.600
Have more and more companies started paying attention to transparency?

00:15:50.600 --> 00:15:53.790
Well we’ve looked up some statistics.

00:15:53.790 --> 00:15:54.860
Just a few short facts,

00:15:54.860 --> 00:15:55.860
Significant numbers.

00:15:55.860 --> 00:16:00.110
Since that time, the number of companies actively participating in the top 500 have doubled

00:16:00.110 --> 00:16:01.860
So that's very positive.

00:16:01.860 --> 00:16:03.120
Companies also see its added value.

00:16:03.120 --> 00:16:06.250
If you look at sectors, we asked the audience a few seconds ago about this,

00:16:06.250 --> 00:16:11.740
Then you actually see that the pharmaceutical sector is
always dangling at the bottom.

00:16:11.740 --> 00:16:13.670
Not a great sign, in my opinion.

00:16:13.670 --> 00:16:17.990
But what is fun, is that the very often
criticized sector of oil and gas in the

00:16:17.990 --> 00:16:22.209
last 5-6 years has gone from ranking place 9 to 
3rd  or 4th place.

00:16:22.209 --> 00:16:24.170
There you see something very positive.

00:16:24.170 --> 00:16:28.010
Yes, of course they can do much more
make a difference, I imagine.

00:16:28.010 --> 00:16:31.529
And for the pharmaceutical sector, there are of course a lot of complicated trade-offs.

00:16:31.529 --> 00:16:33.600
Of course everyone wants to get better.

00:16:33.600 --> 00:16:37.380
So do you include or consider other aspects if your health is not doing well?

00:16:37.380 --> 00:16:38.380
Apparently not.

00:16:38.380 --> 00:16:41.639
Surely fewer of those big parties are based in the Netherlands,

00:16:41.639 --> 00:16:43.649
Which makes them less approachable.

00:16:43.649 --> 00:16:45.690
But that’s something we can take to heart

00:16:45.690 --> 00:16:48.730
How can we engage with these parties as well? 

00:16:48.730 --> 00:16:55.230
With the Panel we’ve had reoccurring discussions

00:16:55.230 --> 00:16:58.399
About the relationship between transparency and sustainability.

00:16:58.399 --> 00:17:02.060
Because, of course, it is possible that your operations are not sustainable at all…

00:17:02.060 --> 00:17:03.060
.. but you can transparently

00:17:03.060 --> 00:17:04.060
Report about not being sustainable.

00:17:04.060 --> 00:17:06.880
We as the Panel of Experts have struggled with that many times.

00:17:06.880 --> 00:17:09.790
And then we usually move towards sustainable operations anyway.

00:17:09.790 --> 00:17:11.730
You could say: I don't do stakeholder dialogues.

00:17:11.730 --> 00:17:14.919
But then we didn't think that was so positive after all.

00:17:14.919 --> 00:17:18.740
That is something, also with the new legislation,
We will get rid of..

00:17:18.740 --> 00:17:20.910
Then obviously, you have to report about also on sustainability elements.

00:17:20.910 --> 00:17:26.819
That way we can really see what's actually going on
happens, and what the line is.

00:17:26.819 --> 00:17:30.520
Can you tell us what the panel of experts will be focusing on this year
During the evaluation? 

00:17:30.520 --> 00:17:31.520
Of course everyone wants to know that.

00:17:31.520 --> 00:17:33.919
It has already been said a little bit.

00:17:33.919 --> 00:17:36.410
The new legislation - there are two coming.

00:17:36.410 --> 00:17:40.020
The CSRD has already been mentioned, but there will also be legislation
in the field of due diligence [the CSDDD]

00:17:40.020 --> 00:17:41.020


00:17:41.020 --> 00:17:43.240
How do you properly map out your chain?

00:17:43.240 --> 00:17:45.200
How will you prevent running into risks there?

00:17:45.200 --> 00:17:47.789
There we will see which companies are already ' aligned '
With these questions

00:17:47.789 --> 00:17:56.740
What you'll see: the questions that were raised in 2004 - how are we going to do all that

00:17:56.740 --> 00:17:59.960
that reporting on socially responsible issues – that will be asked again now.

00:17:59.960 --> 00:18:02.010
The new legislation has not solved that yet.

00:18:02.010 --> 00:18:04.190
The new legislation also raises questions

00:18:04.190 --> 00:18:05.270
How can I do it right then?

00:18:05.270 --> 00:18:06.350
What is the level playing field?

00:18:06.350 --> 00:18:08.419
What can be expected of us as a company?

00:18:08.419 --> 00:18:11.590
Then again it is good to look at each other.

00:18:11.590 --> 00:18:13.470
What are the good practices?

00:18:13.470 --> 00:18:18.520
Maybe also look at some kind of criteria together and compare things with each other.

00:18:18.520 --> 00:18:22.900
Exactly, do you also look at earlier reports from companies?

00:18:22.900 --> 00:18:24.640
So also looking at the development of reports per company throughout the years?

00:18:24.640 --> 00:18:27.190
Look, there's limited time.

00:18:27.190 --> 00:18:30.230
We will include it whenever relevant.

00:18:30.230 --> 00:18:32.270
But you've also heard it: there are 15%
new companies.

00:18:32.270 --> 00:18:34.070
We will certainly not disadvantage those.

00:18:34.070 --> 00:18:38.789
Above all, we look towards the future.

00:18:38.789 --> 00:18:39.990
This is not the end of the story.

00:18:39.990 --> 00:18:41.380
It's the end of the Crystal Prize.

00:18:41.380 --> 00:18:46.030
But the issues raised certainly don't get any less
relevant, for companies.

00:18:46.030 --> 00:18:49.520
It's good to keep comparing them
to keep in touch with each other.

00:18:49.520 --> 00:18:51.559
Certainly also with your stakeholders, of course.

00:18:51.559 --> 00:18:54.250
And from a long-term perspective.

00:18:54.250 --> 00:19:00.440
And then something like: facilitating from the
government has worked well so far.

00:19:00.440 --> 00:19:04.929
And I think there is also a need among
companies to get the right form in the future

00:19:04.929 --> 00:19:05.929

00:19:05.929 --> 00:19:08.970
Yes, and also to get support from
the government and of moving more

00:19:08.970 --> 00:19:11.809
towards the European directives for this.

00:19:11.809 --> 00:19:14.710
And the due diligence law will also be introduced
soon.

00:19:14.710 --> 00:19:18.020
Do you think this will create a more level playing field?

00:19:18.020 --> 00:19:19.270
Yes, I think so.

00:19:19.270 --> 00:19:20.559
But you have to move towards a new equilibrium.

00:19:20.559 --> 00:19:22.220
And that does not happen automatically.

00:19:22.220 --> 00:19:25.620
For every new equilibrium you have to go through first
a bit of chaos often.

00:19:25.620 --> 00:19:29.890
And in that chaos, it's nice if there are parties, be it the government or a branch association,

00:19:29.890 --> 00:19:32.360
that try to bring some guidance into this.

00:19:32.360 --> 00:19:34.600
As long as you know in advance: I want to go there.

00:19:34.600 --> 00:19:35.799
We don't quite know how yet.

00:19:35.799 --> 00:19:38.940
For that process it is specifically nice 
Knowing that there are instruments like the Transparency Benchmark.

00:19:38.940 --> 00:19:39.940
What should we pay attention to?

00:19:39.940 --> 00:19:40.940
So what should we measure?

00:19:40.940 --> 00:19:41.940
How do we actually do that?

00:19:41.940 --> 00:19:43.250
How far do we go in that supply chain?

00:19:43.250 --> 00:19:46.670
Those are all questions for which there are guidelines,
but you never exactly know how

00:19:46.670 --> 00:19:47.670
you have to do that.

00:19:47.670 --> 00:19:52.270
Again for those moments it’s nice to have these kinds of instruments
like the Transparency Benchmark.

00:19:52.270 --> 00:19:56.440
Following on from this: we need to wrap up this conversation. 

00:19:56.440 --> 00:19:58.919
But we do have a poll question for the viewer.

00:19:58.919 --> 00:20:03.059
And we are curious, how you prioritize
The different CSR themes.

00:20:03.059 --> 00:20:07.550
So if all goes well you should get another pop-up on the screen.

00:20:07.550 --> 00:20:09.350
How do you determine the prioritization?

00:20:09.350 --> 00:20:12.720
Is that based on the Sustainable Development
Goals, the SDGs ?

00:20:12.720 --> 00:20:14.560
Is that in the interest of the customers?

00:20:14.560 --> 00:20:18.770
Is that the difference or the impact you can
do with your business?

00:20:18.770 --> 00:20:23.559
Is it about social attention – what topics
are mostly covered by the media?

00:20:23.559 --> 00:20:26.320
Or do costs play the biggest role?

00:20:26.320 --> 00:20:30.250
I'll take a look at the answers in the meantime

00:20:30.250 --> 00:20:31.250

00:20:31.250 --> 00:20:33.610
I can't read it, but I see that one
bar is already very high.

00:20:33.610 --> 00:20:35.660
And that costs – money is not an issue
at all according to you all.

00:20:35.660 --> 00:20:37.830
No, we kind of expected that too.

00:20:37.830 --> 00:20:42.640
That that one specifically would have little enthusiasm.

00:20:42.640 --> 00:20:48.320
At least there is a high standout from the difference/impact we can make.

00:20:48.320 --> 00:20:52.940
Those are the letters you couldn't read.

00:20:52.940 --> 00:20:53.940
What do you think of that?

00:20:53.940 --> 00:20:55.050
That that answers is answered the most?

00:20:55.050 --> 00:20:58.620
That also sounds very businesslike, but
the question is of course: how do you measure those differences/that

00:20:58.620 --> 00:20:59.620
effect?

00:20:59.620 --> 00:21:01.730
That is also very difficult sometimes, to measure that financially.

00:21:01.730 --> 00:21:07.040
I can also imagine that including your stakeholders is determining the

00:21:07.040 --> 00:21:08.760
topics where you find that impact is important.

00:21:08.760 --> 00:21:12.150
And many companies do that by the way,
which is also very relevant.

00:21:12.150 --> 00:21:17.480
Yes, and that raises the question- you can
make a big difference, but is that also the most impactful 

00:21:17.480 --> 00:21:18.480
difference?

00:21:18.480 --> 00:21:19.700
Yes, those two things will always remain relevant.

00:21:19.700 --> 00:21:21.220
One, where can I make an impact?

00:21:21.220 --> 00:21:24.750
And am I also making impact on the good things?

00:21:24.750 --> 00:21:26.919
Has everyone been able to see the results?

00:21:26.919 --> 00:21:28.220
Nice to see.

00:21:28.220 --> 00:21:31.650
Social attention also plays a role,
there is a lot of pressure there, and also

00:21:31.650 --> 00:21:36.289
the interests of the customer and the SDGs
are taken into account.

00:21:36.289 --> 00:21:38.850
Well thank you very much for giving your
answers.

00:21:38.850 --> 00:21:42.090
I am also very curious about how our next guests
would answer this question

00:21:42.090 --> 00:21:46.720
But first of all thank you very much, Giuseppe
van der Helm.

00:21:46.720 --> 00:21:54.480
Well, now we all have an idea what kind of
choices other companies make regarding this.

00:21:54.480 --> 00:21:59.690
Experiences from the business side, from
that perspective, of course, should not be missed.

00:21:59.690 --> 00:22:19.430
And thus we're going to talk to our next guests
from ABN AMRO.

00:22:19.430 --> 00:22:23.330
Yes, ABN AMRO won the Crystal Prize last year, in 2022.

00:22:23.330 --> 00:22:28.590
But why do they attach so much importance to good CSR reporting 
from a business perspective?

00:22:28.590 --> 00:22:32.299
What are the steps taken to improve
their report?

00:22:32.299 --> 00:22:36.549
And what added value do they feel that
completing a self -assessment brings them?

00:22:36.549 --> 00:22:41.620
Do you have any questions besides these questions
for our guests, put them in the chat!

00:22:41.620 --> 00:22:44.790
Then we will try as much as possible to
to answer them.

00:22:44.790 --> 00:22:52.370
And to answer all those questions here are,
oh my iPad falls over for a moment… 

00:22:52.370 --> 00:23:02.540
Are ABN AMRO business and human rights advisors
– Yuri Herder and Emmelie Claessens.

00:23:02.540 --> 00:23:03.540
Welcome.

00:23:03.540 --> 00:23:04.540
Thank you.

00:23:04.540 --> 00:23:05.540
Thank you.

00:23:05.540 --> 00:23:10.090
Glad you're here and congratulations again on
winning the Crystal Prize.

00:23:10.090 --> 00:23:15.700
Emmelie , what concrete steps has ABN
AMRO taken in recent years 

00:23:15.700 --> 00:23:18.159
To improve your CSR reporting?

00:23:18.159 --> 00:23:23.710
First let me say human rights
is a very important theme for ABN AMRO.

00:23:23.710 --> 00:23:28.429
Therefore, it is also an integral part
of our annual report.

00:23:28.429 --> 00:23:31.820
That is built around the annual report.

00:23:31.820 --> 00:23:38.660
Then we have the human rights report and
the impact report, which are also part of it.

00:23:38.660 --> 00:23:44.250
And that has been the case since 2016, that the 
human rights report is part of it.

00:23:44.250 --> 00:23:49.900
And that is of course also because we work
on a human rights program, very intensively.

00:23:49.900 --> 00:23:54.200
And that reporting is just a reflection
of that.

00:23:54.200 --> 00:23:56.929
Yes, a shame not to report.

00:23:56.929 --> 00:24:01.780
Exactly, if you're already at it,
better report on it.

00:24:01.780 --> 00:24:04.720
And if you look at concrete steps.

00:24:04.720 --> 00:24:08.840
We have limited assurance on our first
part of the annual report.

00:24:08.840 --> 00:24:12.870
And we have limited assurance on the
entire human rights report.

00:24:12.870 --> 00:24:18.820
We also have sustainability aspects
in certain sections of the annual report.

00:24:18.820 --> 00:24:26.610
And just for those who don't work within the audit department, 
how does that work with the assurance levels?

00:24:26.610 --> 00:24:32.390
'Limited assurance' means that the accountant
checks that you have nothing in your report

00:24:32.390 --> 00:24:34.890
which is incorrect.

00:24:34.890 --> 00:24:40.750
So for us, we make statements
in the report, which are then checked

00:24:40.750 --> 00:24:44.090
whether or not they are false.

00:24:44.090 --> 00:24:46.580
Yes, so that's all double
checked.

00:24:46.580 --> 00:24:49.910
And you also have more levels in it, don't you?

00:24:49.910 --> 00:24:53.860
Yes, you also have ' reasonable assurance '
- that's one step further.

00:24:53.860 --> 00:24:56.710
Is there such a thing as 'full assurance '?

00:24:56.710 --> 00:24:57.770
Very good question.

00:24:57.770 --> 00:24:59.549
I already see someone gesturing..

00:24:59.549 --> 00:25:02.760
I don't think so, maybe they will go there.

00:25:02.760 --> 00:25:06.000
No but reasonable assurance ' is also
already quite extensive.

00:25:06.000 --> 00:25:11.620
But also very challenging when you talk about
human rights reporting – where you mostly have

00:25:11.620 --> 00:25:14.040
qualitative reports on impact on people.

00:25:14.040 --> 00:25:15.950
That's a bit more complicated.

00:25:15.950 --> 00:25:19.660
But even 'limited assurance' is good
And very challenging to obtain, 

00:25:19.660 --> 00:25:20.970
As you mentioned before.

00:25:20.970 --> 00:25:21.970
Sorry, elaborate.

00:25:21.970 --> 00:25:27.840
If you then look at that sustainability, we
also have sustainability aspects in the annual report.

00:25:27.840 --> 00:25:35.260
And there we report on sustainability risks
that we have as a bank and also how we manage those.

00:25:35.260 --> 00:25:41.760
And in addition, reporting on something like that helps the
human rights program we’re running

00:25:41.760 --> 00:25:43.640
to further integrate that into the organization.

00:25:43.640 --> 00:25:50.280
And that, of course, is all linked to
the human rights program we conduct.

00:25:50.280 --> 00:25:52.120
So that reflects that nicely.

00:25:52.120 --> 00:25:53.120
Yes.

00:25:53.120 --> 00:25:58.500
And Yuri, maybe you can elaborate on
that Human Rights Report?

00:25:58.500 --> 00:26:00.900
Why did you win the award?

00:26:00.900 --> 00:26:01.900
Yes.

00:26:01.900 --> 00:26:06.230
So we did indeed won the Crystal Prize
last year.

00:26:06.230 --> 00:26:12.970
And that's basically across our entire reporting,
I can't say suite, but reports

00:26:12.970 --> 00:26:15.799
on human rights in recent years.

00:26:15.799 --> 00:26:22.890
We actually started in 2012 with our
commitment to Human Guiding Principles

00:26:22.890 --> 00:26:24.750
on Businesses and Human Rights .

00:26:24.750 --> 00:26:27.530
Those are the standards from the United 
Nations.

00:26:27.530 --> 00:26:33.050
From the United Nations, those are
about due diligence – what Giuseppe just spoke

00:26:33.050 --> 00:26:34.050
about.

00:26:34.050 --> 00:26:40.549
So through thorough research into your activities
And possible  abuses in the chains of your company.

00:26:40.549 --> 00:26:45.950
And to manage on that and ultimately
to report on.

00:26:45.950 --> 00:26:49.720
We made that commitment in 2012.

00:26:49.720 --> 00:26:56.960
Then in 2015 we first got our
'salient issues' determined, our 'salient

00:26:56.960 --> 00:26:57.960
human rights issues.

00:26:57.960 --> 00:27:02.270
That's a very complicated term for the
most important issues for you as a company.

00:27:02.270 --> 00:27:07.780
So where do you, as a company, have the most impact
on people with your activities or the activities

00:27:07.780 --> 00:27:09.430
in your chains.

00:27:09.430 --> 00:27:14.610
You actually determine those ' salient issues'
to bring focus to your human rights risk management.

00:27:14.610 --> 00:27:15.610
We determined this in 2015.

00:27:15.610 --> 00:27:22.950
Then we talked about it for the first time in our 2016
report, in line with the reporting framework

00:27:22.950 --> 00:27:25.070
from the United Nations.

00:27:25.070 --> 00:27:26.470
Really specific about human rights.

00:27:26.470 --> 00:27:30.750
And that reporting framework actually forces you
to be very transparent about what you do.

00:27:30.750 --> 00:27:37.669
Because you actually report step by step through the 'due
dligence cycle' 

00:27:37.669 --> 00:27:38.669

00:27:38.669 --> 00:27:42.390
To ensure that you respect human rights
and communicate honestly about it

00:27:42.390 --> 00:27:43.390
To others.

00:27:43.390 --> 00:27:44.390
Also how you monitor it.

00:27:44.390 --> 00:27:46.580
Do you actually make it measurable?

00:27:46.580 --> 00:27:47.580
That's right.

00:27:47.580 --> 00:27:48.580
as measurable as possible.

00:27:48.580 --> 00:27:51.230
So we did that for the first time in 2016.

00:27:51.230 --> 00:27:53.580
Again in 2018.

00:27:53.580 --> 00:27:57.990
In 2020 we then recalibrated our focus somewhat.

00:27:57.990 --> 00:28:02.010
We've looked again at our ' salient
issues': are they still relevant in this zeitgeist

00:28:02.010 --> 00:28:03.070

00:28:03.070 --> 00:28:06.090
Are there issues that have become more relevant,
less relevant?

00:28:06.090 --> 00:28:10.740
We made a new ‘salient issue determination’ on those.

00:28:10.740 --> 00:28:14.690
And we reported on that again,
in 2020.

00:28:14.690 --> 00:28:20.010
And in 2020 we also asked EY to
to work with us on ' limited assurance '

00:28:20.010 --> 00:28:21.120
of our report.

00:28:21.120 --> 00:28:25.550
But when I hear this, I do think it sounds a bit tangly to 
choose and recalibrate new salient issues

00:28:25.550 --> 00:28:28.429

00:28:28.429 --> 00:28:31.950
How do you see comparisons to what has gone before?

00:28:31.950 --> 00:28:36.330
Can you still…
That is a good question.

00:28:36.330 --> 00:28:40.429
You report a number of salient issues over a number of years

00:28:40.429 --> 00:28:42.130
And in those years, you can see progression

00:28:42.130 --> 00:28:45.600
When we started recalibrating them, 
Which of course is important

00:28:45.600 --> 00:28:49.090
Because it could be that you’re focusing on the wrong things.

00:28:49.090 --> 00:28:51.310
That your business activities have changed, for example

00:28:51.310 --> 00:28:55.060
But to avoid easily saying that on these issues we’re making a lot of difference

00:28:55.060 --> 00:28:57.289
We will bring up new issues.

00:28:57.289 --> 00:29:04.289
Of course you take your old issues as a starting point,
with that recalibration, and then you look at:

00:29:04.289 --> 00:29:11.670
are these still relevant, do we have them
under control, or are we no longer

00:29:11.670 --> 00:29:13.510
Impacting people in that way?

00:29:13.510 --> 00:29:20.370
And you really don't need such a recalibration
every year, or every month.

00:29:20.370 --> 00:29:23.789
But the idea is that you do that every 5 years.

00:29:23.789 --> 00:29:28.590
At least at the moment you 
notice that there is a change.

00:29:28.590 --> 00:29:29.840
Then you can still show a line.

00:29:29.840 --> 00:29:34.240
Exactly, then you can still show a line in 5 years or more or less..

00:29:34.240 --> 00:29:37.100
Plus, of course, the world is also changing.

00:29:37.100 --> 00:29:44.690
' Salient issues', if you look at privacy
and issues like that, they did not existed 20 years ago.

00:29:44.690 --> 00:29:45.990

00:29:45.990 --> 00:29:54.050
Especially in the context of countries, in China
you see that, in Russia.

00:29:54.050 --> 00:29:56.610
So responding to current events.

00:29:56.610 --> 00:30:01.519
Emmelie , what has been the added value for you in all these years

00:30:01.519 --> 00:30:03.679
Of participating, actively, in the Transparency Benchmark?

00:30:03.679 --> 00:30:15.899
If I look at that, since you’re already reporting – it is also good to 
Participate in a Transparency Benchmark

00:30:15.899 --> 00:30:16.899

00:30:16.899 --> 00:30:18.309
We see that as 'normal'.

00:30:18.309 --> 00:30:22.260
And of course you enable yourself to learn from other companies
and they can learn from you.

00:30:22.260 --> 00:30:24.710
And you can also give feedback to each other.

00:30:24.710 --> 00:30:30.549
That also ensures that your reporting
can improve.

00:30:30.549 --> 00:30:38.200
And apart from that, you also notice that you get appreciation for it

00:30:38.200 --> 00:30:40.820
We received the Crystal Prize last year
from the jury.

00:30:40.820 --> 00:30:45.040
Because we reported very transparently
on human rights.

00:30:45.040 --> 00:30:49.330
And that also encourages you to keep going
go on this topic.

00:30:49.330 --> 00:30:50.930
Yes, exactly.

00:30:50.930 --> 00:30:56.279
And what ambitions and steps do you still want to take
To comply with the upcoming CSRD

00:30:56.279 --> 00:30:57.279
guidelines?

00:30:57.279 --> 00:30:58.870
Yes, that's a good question.

00:30:58.870 --> 00:31:03.880
We are very busy with that, internally
at ABN AMRO.

00:31:03.880 --> 00:31:08.680
So we are currently working, particularly also, in the first instance on 

00:31:08.680 --> 00:31:14.611
On how that salient issues concept and the impact on
people relates to the double materiality

00:31:14.611 --> 00:31:16.620
on which to report.

00:31:16.620 --> 00:31:18.419
There will be overlap.

00:31:18.419 --> 00:31:20.850
But there will also be aspects that are different.

00:31:20.850 --> 00:31:25.269
Our human rights reporting will therefore look different

00:31:25.269 --> 00:31:30.700
It is expected to become more integrated
in our integrated annual reporting.

00:31:30.700 --> 00:31:35.650
So that you also go a little deeper into 
human rights risks there.

00:31:35.650 --> 00:31:42.090
We are still in the process of getting that ready, since 
we first have to report on it next year.

00:31:42.090 --> 00:31:43.090

00:31:43.090 --> 00:31:49.030
In any case, what is certain is that we 
already have so much experience with reporting

00:31:49.030 --> 00:31:54.899
in the field of human rights – that we
do expect that we have taken all the necessary steps

00:31:54.899 --> 00:31:58.230
to be ready for next year.

00:31:58.230 --> 00:32:01.690
You have indeed already earned a mark there

00:32:01.690 --> 00:32:03.080
And what do you think?

00:32:03.080 --> 00:32:08.230
We’ve worked hard, and hopefully that way
well deserved yes.

00:32:08.230 --> 00:32:13.600
I'm going to take a look at my screen, because the chat questions are coming
on there in the meantime.

00:32:13.600 --> 00:32:15.910
Let’s have a look.

00:32:15.910 --> 00:32:19.530
There's a question for both of you from Rob.

00:32:19.530 --> 00:32:24.059
He asks: when giving out loans, does ABN AMRO also consider whether
The use of that money

00:32:24.059 --> 00:32:25.210
Is sustainable?

00:32:25.210 --> 00:32:31.500
I see a lot of information on the website
About what ABN AMRO itself does in terms of sustainability.

00:32:31.500 --> 00:32:36.550
Well there are several elements of sustainability
in our business.

00:32:36.550 --> 00:32:42.480
Initially in our own activity:
in our buildings et cetera, how do we deal with

00:32:42.480 --> 00:32:43.480
our employees?

00:32:43.480 --> 00:32:46.740
But we certainly do, and our ‘salient issues’ also 

00:32:46.740 --> 00:32:49.240
Mainly focus on the business relationships.

00:32:49.240 --> 00:32:50.900
This includes our credit customers.

00:32:50.900 --> 00:32:57.980
So we focus on certain high-risk sectors
And do a very thorough investigation

00:32:57.980 --> 00:33:05.309
to what kind of impact it has on the environment, but also
on human rights.

00:33:05.309 --> 00:33:07.980
So a screening and assessment take place?

00:33:07.980 --> 00:33:10.179
Yes, we call that due diligence.

00:33:10.179 --> 00:33:12.850
You do research into the risks that exist
involved with a customer.

00:33:12.850 --> 00:33:14.470
You look at how a customer handles those risks

00:33:14.470 --> 00:33:19.330
You look at how a customer reports and how transparent
They are in dealing with those risks.

00:33:19.330 --> 00:33:26.019
And based on that, we do this especially in the high
risk sectors - think oil and gas, agriculture

00:33:26.019 --> 00:33:27.399
etcetera.

00:33:27.399 --> 00:33:28.820
Good to hear.

00:33:28.820 --> 00:33:31.900
I hope that answers your question
Rob.

00:33:31.900 --> 00:33:37.730
with transparency, you still risk losing out to competitors 
who are less transparent and selective in what they disclose.

00:33:41.909 --> 00:33:43.260
Very good point.

00:33:43.260 --> 00:33:48.440
How do you think or hope that the CSRD
will affect this?

00:33:48.440 --> 00:33:52.190
In any way, we hope it's a positive development

00:33:52.190 --> 00:33:54.980
Because then everyone will have to report.

00:33:54.980 --> 00:33:59.240
Of course we do think that assurance, like
we have on human rights reports, 

00:33:59.240 --> 00:34:04.510
really helps to create more legitimacy
also to the outside world.

00:34:04.510 --> 00:34:09.760
Like: hey, what we do is audited by an independent person.

00:34:09.760 --> 00:34:15.829
So that's an extra step, but I think
that the CSRD itself is already a good step forward

00:34:15.829 --> 00:34:16.829

00:34:16.829 --> 00:34:23.899
That it offers a fairer ‘level playing field’ among competitors

00:34:23.899 --> 00:34:32.260
Indeed, the CSRD will ensure that 'level playing
field' much more we think. 

00:34:32.260 --> 00:34:37.770
Right now, you're a forerunner within the
field of ESG reporting or integrated

00:34:37.770 --> 00:34:44.849
reporting and human rights reporting
- you make yourself vulnerable in a way.

00:34:44.849 --> 00:34:50.060
You take responsibility for it, and because of that
your stakeholders can also hold you accountable.

00:34:50.060 --> 00:34:51.470
And that happens.

00:34:51.470 --> 00:34:57.770
But the difference is, that if you go through an assurance process
You are extra transparent and can also 

00:34:57.770 --> 00:34:59.490
Be held accountable for it

00:34:59.490 --> 00:35:01.960
I don't want to say judged, but...

00:35:01.960 --> 00:35:03.530
It will come to the light

00:35:03.530 --> 00:35:04.720
Yes, it comes to the light.

00:35:04.720 --> 00:35:06.180
And that is good.

00:35:06.180 --> 00:35:08.410
Because that's where we all have to go.

00:35:08.410 --> 00:35:12.109
But it's nice that the CSRD 
catches up with companies that do so at a lesser rate

00:35:12.109 --> 00:35:13.109

00:35:13.109 --> 00:35:15.380
And are currently not being held accountable 

00:35:15.380 --> 00:35:19.640
Yes, and companies that do even less,
we also have a question about that.

00:35:19.640 --> 00:35:25.430
Because what would you advise to a company
That is just starting out with their CSR reporting or human rights report

00:35:25.430 --> 00:35:26.430

00:35:26.430 --> 00:35:27.760
With all your experience.

00:35:27.760 --> 00:35:35.660
I'd say start by looking at what
the most important impact is 

00:35:35.660 --> 00:35:36.770
That you have as a company.

00:35:36.770 --> 00:35:40.950
So: where can you make the biggest difference?

00:35:40.950 --> 00:35:45.070
Can you give an example, it is said here.

00:35:45.070 --> 00:35:48.890
Maybe I can add something to that.

00:35:48.890 --> 00:35:54.800
Giuseppe just said it: it's important
To know where you have the most impact on people and

00:35:54.800 --> 00:35:57.450
environment - if you're really talking about reporting
broadly. 

00:35:57.450 --> 00:35:59.530
And also involve your stakeholders.

00:35:59.530 --> 00:36:09.290
Of course you can't do it yourself from your high
tower, or low tower, wherever your business

00:36:09.290 --> 00:36:10.290
is.

00:36:10.290 --> 00:36:11.640
The stakeholder consultation is important.

00:36:11.640 --> 00:36:16.710
Involve NGOs , trade unions, but also
human rights or climate representatives.

00:36:16.710 --> 00:36:23.250
So really engage in the dialogue: what is important to you

00:36:23.250 --> 00:36:28.060
The impact of ABN AMRO lies mainly with her
customers.

00:36:28.060 --> 00:36:31.380
Is ABN AMRO transparent about in which sectors
they do business?

00:36:31.380 --> 00:36:33.940
Are certain sectors and sub-sectors excluded?

00:36:33.940 --> 00:36:36.770
What about, for example, the fossil and
agro industry?

00:36:36.770 --> 00:36:38.820
Where can we find that information?

00:36:38.820 --> 00:36:41.050
A question from Charlotte for both of you.

00:36:41.050 --> 00:36:44.220
That is a complicated question.

00:36:44.220 --> 00:36:47.150
Yes, it's a bunch of questions too.

00:36:47.150 --> 00:36:54.000
I can say something about our exclusion policy
and how we make choices about it.

00:36:54.000 --> 00:36:57.940
We never exclude sectors

00:36:57.940 --> 00:37:02.720
We have an inclusive strategy as a bank,
where we talk to customers from all

00:37:02.720 --> 00:37:05.119
different sectors.

00:37:05.119 --> 00:37:10.650
You then sit at the table, you can talk to
those customers about improvements in the area

00:37:10.650 --> 00:37:11.650
of sustainability.

00:37:11.650 --> 00:37:16.411
Where we don't see that, that improvement, where
we think 'the will is not there' or 'the

00:37:16.411 --> 00:37:20.109
there is no possibility' – that’s when we no longer 
engage in that conversation.

00:37:20.109 --> 00:37:27.160
That doesn't happen in many ways, 
but for example, we exclude arms organizations and we also

00:37:27.160 --> 00:37:31.569
and we also exclude the tobacco sector 

00:37:31.569 --> 00:37:34.690
Because we see there, that it has such a grove
impact on human rights ..

00:37:34.690 --> 00:37:36.550
Excuse me which sector?

00:37:36.550 --> 00:37:38.420
The tobacco sector.

00:37:38.420 --> 00:37:42.360
There is really no improvement possible.

00:37:42.360 --> 00:37:45.760
So we're not going to engage with that.

00:37:45.760 --> 00:37:50.880
So you actually follow the company's line: do they show improvement?

00:37:50.880 --> 00:37:55.510
But it could also be the case that if they don't, 
the cooperation will end?

00:37:55.510 --> 00:37:56.780

00:37:56.780 --> 00:37:58.790
Yes, yes sure.

00:37:58.790 --> 00:38:01.660
That is certainly the case.

00:38:01.660 --> 00:38:05.540
That is not the starting point, but it is one
possible end.

00:38:05.540 --> 00:38:08.280
You can also read that in our human rights report.

00:38:08.280 --> 00:38:12.410
What kind of steps we take, what kind of
considerations we make.

00:38:12.410 --> 00:38:16.070
Then there's another question, actually following up the previous question, 
from Gerlof.

00:38:16.070 --> 00:38:20.810
Could you give an example of things that have improved 
with customers or suppliers because of what you do?

00:38:20.810 --> 00:38:21.810

00:38:21.810 --> 00:38:25.650
I must say in our human rights report
there are many beautiful examples of this

00:38:25.650 --> 00:38:27.390

00:38:27.390 --> 00:38:28.520
Definitely worth reading

00:38:28.520 --> 00:38:34.200
There is a very nice part of the people report,
there are many examples where we have

00:38:34.200 --> 00:38:38.300
– as we call it 'engagement'
where we have engaged with

00:38:38.300 --> 00:38:42.400
clients operating in a high risk sector

00:38:42.400 --> 00:38:45.290
And where we expect improvement.

00:38:45.290 --> 00:38:52.610
This happens with some customers, but not with others
Or at least not at the rate 

00:38:52.610 --> 00:38:53.610
We expect. 

00:38:53.610 --> 00:38:59.500
But eventually we will see that if we 
keep the conversation going, 

00:38:59.500 --> 00:39:01.050
improvement can be achieved.

00:39:01.050 --> 00:39:03.530
And if you don't, then ultimately you don’t improve.

00:39:03.530 --> 00:39:04.530
Yes exactly.

00:39:04.530 --> 00:39:09.020
So they do feel the pressure. Or, I don't know if it's pressure or motivation

00:39:09.020 --> 00:39:12.140
but at least to change things and that things are happening.

00:39:12.140 --> 00:39:16.890
Thank you very much Emmelie and Yuri for your
insights.

00:39:16.890 --> 00:39:20.170
We move on to our last guest.

00:39:20.170 --> 00:39:40.460
We will continue with practical tips
for the self -assessment.

00:39:40.460 --> 00:39:47.300
EY, as an independent party, assesses companies' CSR 
reports and provides feedback

00:39:47.300 --> 00:39:50.470
on the quality and transparency of reporting.

00:39:50.470 --> 00:39:55.359
And they also give advice on how organizations 
can improve their reporting.

00:39:55.359 --> 00:40:01.160
They also publish an annual report with
the findings of the Transparency Benchmark.

00:40:01.160 --> 00:40:04.910
They take trends in the area into account
of CSR reporting.

00:40:04.910 --> 00:40:09.350
As we've seen before, or example SDGs were
more and more included.

00:40:09.350 --> 00:40:12.480
And now some parts of the CSRD.

00:40:12.480 --> 00:40:14.920
And also the EU taxonomy.

00:40:14.920 --> 00:40:21.440
And also this year they are going to research the participating 
group of 500 companies.

00:40:21.440 --> 00:40:26.619
Quite a job, but what does the research entail
exactly and what matters do you have to take into account

00:40:26.619 --> 00:40:29.580
While filling in the self-assessment?

00:40:29.580 --> 00:40:35.560
Fortunately, you get some support for that
and we get more clarity from our last

00:40:35.560 --> 00:40:40.180
guest: Senior Consultant at EY on
Climate Change and Sustainability Services

00:40:40.180 --> 00:40:41.800
– Bas Sprenger the Rover.

00:40:41.800 --> 00:40:43.950
Bas welcome!
Thank you, it's a mouth full.

00:40:43.950 --> 00:40:45.750
Yes, such a title, it is something.

00:40:45.750 --> 00:40:50.089
You're going to give us insights into the investigation
and the self -assessment, right?

00:40:50.089 --> 00:40:51.089
Yes that's right.

00:40:51.089 --> 00:40:53.060
Can I have the clicker for that.

00:40:53.060 --> 00:40:56.471
That's a very good point, I would almost forget

00:40:56.471 --> 00:41:00.210
Good for the viewer to know is that if
you have a comment or a question

00:41:00.210 --> 00:41:01.950
For Bas: write them down in the chat.

00:41:01.950 --> 00:41:06.670
And after Bas's presentation, we will answer your questions.

00:41:06.670 --> 00:41:09.860
Alright Bas, I now give you the floor.

00:41:09.860 --> 00:41:10.860
Thank you. And Hi. 

00:41:10.860 --> 00:41:15.170
For the next 10 minutes to say a quick word about the survey itself, 
what it looks like,

00:41:15.170 --> 00:41:19.500
what it means for you, the self -assessment
tool, how best to fill it in and

00:41:19.500 --> 00:41:23.580
what that kind of entails

00:41:23.580 --> 00:41:24.580
Very well. 

00:41:24.580 --> 00:41:25.819
First the research in brief.

00:41:25.819 --> 00:41:30.530
We have seen that of the people present here,
only 15% new.

00:41:30.530 --> 00:41:34.900
But I think it's still good to dwell on that, 
what that survey entails.

00:41:34.900 --> 00:41:40.950
Then we will zoom in on the tool: how it works
what does it look like, what can you do with it

00:41:40.950 --> 00:41:43.530
and what's new this year?

00:41:43.530 --> 00:41:47.180
This year's honorable mention theme is 'dual materiality'.

00:41:47.180 --> 00:41:50.610
The topic has already briefly dropped in several talks.

00:41:50.610 --> 00:41:52.570
And it is very central to the CSRD.

00:41:52.570 --> 00:41:54.599
So we want to pay extra attention to that.

00:41:54.599 --> 00:41:57.910
I will tell you a little bit about how we are going to do so.

00:41:57.910 --> 00:42:03.240
And finally the timeline: what will the process look like.

00:42:03.240 --> 00:42:05.359
The research in brief.

00:42:05.359 --> 00:42:07.660
First a few words about the research group.

00:42:07.660 --> 00:42:08.920
Then you also have an idea about that.

00:42:08.920 --> 00:42:16.080
That's a group that's been gathered from
a number of buckets, from a number of types of companies.

00:42:16.080 --> 00:42:24.950
First: the AEX, AMX and AScX – the small cap
index – that is a total of 75 companies,

00:42:24.950 --> 00:42:26.329
i believe 73.

00:42:26.329 --> 00:42:30.470
Then the so-called PIEs , the Organizations
of Public Interest – there are a lot of those in the Netherlands

00:42:30.470 --> 00:42:31.470

00:42:31.470 --> 00:42:32.470
About 600 or so.

00:42:32.470 --> 00:42:35.230
But there is a lot of overlap with other categories
also.

00:42:35.230 --> 00:42:39.140
And internally, there are also a lot of group relationships.

00:42:39.140 --> 00:42:46.160
We then filtered them out, so that per
group in most cases 1 company is included.

00:42:46.160 --> 00:42:49.069
State participations, that's just a neat 
list published by the government.

00:42:49.069 --> 00:42:50.069
That's 32.

00:42:50.069 --> 00:42:56.030
Then the voluntary participants, those abbreviations
stand for the Association of Universities

00:42:56.030 --> 00:42:57.030
and Medical Centers in the Netherlands.

00:42:57.030 --> 00:43:00.870
That's about 21 institutions.

00:43:00.870 --> 00:43:08.050
And what was left in terms of space to
that 500, has been filled with other larger companies

00:43:08.050 --> 00:43:11.480
in the Netherlands - which have participated in previous years

00:43:11.480 --> 00:43:15.720
And so we come to the group of about 500
largest companies.

00:43:15.720 --> 00:43:25.230
By the way, those asterisks refer to the
website of RVO, where you can find the participation protocol

00:43:25.230 --> 00:43:26.240

00:43:26.240 --> 00:43:30.020
In much more detail, these documents are there
as well.

00:43:30.020 --> 00:43:34.790
The slides, will be mailed to you afterwards
So there you can 

00:43:34.790 --> 00:43:35.869
also click on these links.

00:43:35.869 --> 00:43:37.470
Then you get there very easily.

00:43:37.470 --> 00:43:42.800
The criteria, which are two categories.

00:43:42.800 --> 00:43:44.990
First, the criteria for the assessment.

00:43:44.990 --> 00:43:47.660
We'll talk about that in a bit more detail

00:43:47.660 --> 00:43:51.770
They are unchanged from two
years ago, 2021.

00:43:51.770 --> 00:43:58.319
However, you will see that, for those who have completed it before, 
there is a bit more information available

00:43:58.319 --> 00:44:00.840
on the interpretation of the
criteria.

00:44:00.840 --> 00:44:04.520
In the next slide I will show you how
To find them.

00:44:04.520 --> 00:44:10.070
The second category in terms of criteria is the kind of information
That qualifies for the assessment. 

00:44:10.070 --> 00:44:13.790
You can of course say: is information time-barred at some point,

00:44:13.790 --> 00:44:16.390
or can I just put something on my website and does that apply?

00:44:16.390 --> 00:44:20.890
Basically, we are talking about public and periodic accountability information.

00:44:20.890 --> 00:44:23.819
So in a word: the annual report, in most
cases.

00:44:23.819 --> 00:44:30.579
But since we are talking about CSR, there is
certainly also a 'stand alone ' sustainability report

00:44:30.579 --> 00:44:31.579

00:44:31.579 --> 00:44:34.210
Many companies today have that
Side by side

00:44:34.210 --> 00:44:40.401
In addition, many companies do not yet include 
their sustainability information in their annual report.

00:44:40.401 --> 00:44:41.599

00:44:41.599 --> 00:44:44.490
But do have something published about it on their website

00:44:44.490 --> 00:44:52.880
If we think that or if we want to take that into account,
then that must be specific information.

00:44:52.880 --> 00:44:57.750
It cannot be that there is only a general website – 
we have put something there and look at that

00:44:57.750 --> 00:44:58.750

00:44:58.750 --> 00:45:03.340
There must be a reference from a report, out
an annual report, i.e. periodic information

00:45:03.340 --> 00:45:06.109
must be a reference to such a website page.

00:45:06.109 --> 00:45:10.520
Perhaps an example to make it more concrete: 
in your annual report or in the integrated

00:45:10.520 --> 00:45:14.849
annual report - so that contains both financial and non-financial information

00:45:14.849 --> 00:45:19.280
there is information about how the company deals with suppliers.

00:45:19.280 --> 00:45:22.420
We did a study on that
or we audit them, et cetera.

00:45:22.420 --> 00:45:27.270
And then they publish, for example, very transparently
a list of all suppliers in one

00:45:27.270 --> 00:45:28.400
specific risk area.

00:45:28.400 --> 00:45:30.609
That list is not included in the annual report.

00:45:30.609 --> 00:45:34.260
But they do refer to that specifically: 'view via this link'.

00:45:34.260 --> 00:45:37.740
You can get points for that, even if it is not listed in the report itself.

00:45:37.740 --> 00:45:43.980
That is an example of a specific reference,
and then a website can also count.

00:45:43.980 --> 00:45:46.930
Here on this slide is an example of that 'i ' .

00:45:46.930 --> 00:45:54.109
So there is more information about that this year
On how to interpret the criteria.

00:45:54.109 --> 00:45:56.950
There has been some confusion about that in the past. 

00:45:56.950 --> 00:46:02.210
This is also immediately the environment of the research, 
of the self-assessment tool.

00:46:02.210 --> 00:46:07.260
So we really call for people to 
Fill this in

00:46:07.260 --> 00:46:10.470
That has also been mentioned a few times, but
I would like to highlight it again.

00:46:10.470 --> 00:46:15.950
So we as EY are looking at it, even if a 
company does not fill in anything at all.

00:46:15.950 --> 00:46:19.220
Then we will try to find relevant information

00:46:19.220 --> 00:46:23.859
But, first of all, if you are yourself fill it in – 
you're obviously better aware of your subject matter yourself.

00:46:25.450 --> 00:46:29.589
You can steer our eyes in the right direction.

00:46:29.589 --> 00:46:33.870
Then there is a much higher chance that we will
also find relevant information, so that you

00:46:33.870 --> 00:46:35.170
scores higher points.

00:46:35.170 --> 00:46:41.530
And second, when it comes to feedback, that
questions that you have filled in where 

00:46:41.530 --> 00:46:46.710
we think that it is not enough information– there

00:46:46.710 --> 00:46:48.000
we provide feedback.

00:46:48.000 --> 00:46:52.860
The moment this is not filled in from the company itself, you don't 
get feedback on that either

00:46:52.860 --> 00:46:53.860

00:46:53.860 --> 00:46:58.380
That is a second good reason for the self -assessment
tool as well as possible and as comprehensive as possible

00:46:58.380 --> 00:47:01.740
to fill in.

00:47:01.740 --> 00:47:04.040
Then: what are we actually talking about?

00:47:04.040 --> 00:47:05.480
What are the subjects actually?

00:47:05.480 --> 00:47:08.420
There's a lot of text here, but I will walk you through it.

00:47:08.420 --> 00:47:11.109
Basically there are two general categories.

00:47:11.109 --> 00:47:13.280
There is a content-oriented framework of standards.

00:47:13.280 --> 00:47:17.890
So: what are you actually telling us as a reader?

00:47:17.890 --> 00:47:20.960
And the second category: the quality-oriented
standards framework.

00:47:20.960 --> 00:47:22.550
So: how is that being told?

00:47:22.550 --> 00:47:25.339
Then the subcategories.

00:47:25.339 --> 00:47:28.369
In terms of content - the organization and the chain.

00:47:28.369 --> 00:47:33.769
So what do you say about your company in a general sense,
your business model, opportunities and risks

00:47:33.769 --> 00:47:35.680
– also in relation to your environment.

00:47:35.680 --> 00:47:38.050
That is of course very relevant, also for
CSR.

00:47:38.050 --> 00:47:40.270
That's what the questions in this category are about.

00:47:40.270 --> 00:47:42.980
Strategy, management and governance.

00:47:42.980 --> 00:47:43.980
What is your strategy?

00:47:43.980 --> 00:47:49.000
Not only in the financial field or governance
area, but also in terms of sustainability?

00:47:49.000 --> 00:47:52.900
For example, do you have a ' value creation model '
included in your annual report?

00:47:52.900 --> 00:47:58.210
How do you see yourself creating value in a broad sense?
for customers and society?

00:47:58.210 --> 00:48:03.720
And then: do you have an inventory
made of what the most material themes are 

00:48:03.720 --> 00:48:04.720
for your company

00:48:04.720 --> 00:48:08.000
This often comes in the form of a materiality matrix.

00:48:08.000 --> 00:48:13.240
That is the result of an investigation
among different types of stakeholders.

00:48:13.240 --> 00:48:18.890
That's for a lot of sustainability reporting
really the ' cornerstone ', the base, from which

00:48:18.890 --> 00:48:21.960
actually follow the next steps.

00:48:21.960 --> 00:48:25.170
Then about the third category.

00:48:25.170 --> 00:48:27.310
targeting and results.

00:48:27.310 --> 00:48:30.780
That's divided, ideally, by material theme

00:48:30.780 --> 00:48:34.730
So per different sustainability-related
subject.

00:48:34.730 --> 00:48:37.329
Is there a policy on that?

00:48:37.329 --> 00:48:39.609
What is the approach for that topic?

00:48:39.609 --> 00:48:44.829
And even for some companies, they are already 
ready to let you know quantitative

00:48:44.829 --> 00:48:47.869
results on that as well

00:48:47.869 --> 00:48:50.180
Then the quality-oriented standards framework.

00:48:50.180 --> 00:48:54.380
I see I have to watch the time a bit.

00:48:54.380 --> 00:48:56.280
In communication: is it a coherent report?

00:48:56.280 --> 00:48:57.280
Is it clear?

00:48:57.280 --> 00:48:58.280
Is it also balanced?

00:48:58.280 --> 00:49:00.609
Isn't it just a 'good news story'.

00:49:00.609 --> 00:49:04.560
The fidelity, there are many points to be gained
on assurance .

00:49:04.560 --> 00:49:06.319
Something we just heard at ABN AMRO.

00:49:06.319 --> 00:49:08.660
That is of course also important to EY.

00:49:08.660 --> 00:49:11.010
That also says a lot about reliability
of the information.

00:49:11.010 --> 00:49:15.460
Then you can't just say something, because then
an external party also looks at it.

00:49:15.460 --> 00:49:16.460
Then responsiveness.

00:49:16.460 --> 00:49:20.640
That is about, for example, also understanding
previous years.

00:49:20.640 --> 00:49:23.680
So that not only information about the
current year is told.

00:49:23.680 --> 00:49:26.880
But that comparison is also possible:
is there progress?

00:49:26.880 --> 00:49:30.490
Are dilemmas mentioned, for example
also.

00:49:30.490 --> 00:49:35.490
So again: not just 'good news
story', but also 'what could be improved’

00:49:35.490 --> 00:49:36.490


00:49:36.490 --> 00:49:39.809
I hope this is a bit of a good overview
For everyone that is new with.

00:49:39.809 --> 00:49:40.809
This transparency investigation.

00:49:40.809 --> 00:49:47.470
You will also say that, but the self -assessment
tool is now open – so go check it out.

00:49:47.470 --> 00:49:50.490
Then you will immediately see it in much more detail.

00:49:50.490 --> 00:49:51.970
Then how does the tool work?

00:49:51.970 --> 00:49:53.220
I think we can get through that quickly too.

00:49:53.220 --> 00:49:55.180
We hope he's very self – explanatory.

00:49:55.180 --> 00:49:58.599
Intuitively, I wrote down here.

00:49:58.599 --> 00:50:02.780
If that is not the case, there is a Helpdesk.

00:50:02.780 --> 00:50:06.210
That's what I and my colleagues are behind.

00:50:06.210 --> 00:50:08.809
It can even be done by phone, but preferably
via email I think.

00:50:08.809 --> 00:50:10.610
So ask your questions there.

00:50:10.610 --> 00:50:15.250
An email has been sent to all participants
with the login details – if you did not 

00:50:15.250 --> 00:50:17.530
Receive them or can no longer receive them

00:50:17.530 --> 00:50:20.410
Then please also contact the Helpdesk.

00:50:20.410 --> 00:50:27.099
As much information as possible has already been entered,
otherwise fill in as much as possible.

00:50:27.099 --> 00:50:36.200
For each criterion, this is another example, 
it is important that you add substantiation

00:50:36.200 --> 00:50:37.200

00:50:37.200 --> 00:50:41.869
Either descriptive or with a link to a web page
or a report.

00:50:41.869 --> 00:50:46.069
And then the more specific you can be in that,
the greater the chance that we can find 

00:50:46.069 --> 00:50:47.069
relevant information

00:50:47.069 --> 00:50:51.109
So page numbers, specific descriptions or something like that
Would be ideal.

00:50:51.109 --> 00:50:56.549
And then there are some criteria where the
option 'not applicable' is given.

00:50:56.549 --> 00:51:00.480
Then it is really important that you indicate
why it does not apply to your company

00:51:00.480 --> 00:51:01.480

00:51:01.480 --> 00:51:03.500
Because if we disagree or
can't understand why that isn’t applicable

00:51:03.500 --> 00:51:05.770
 For your business, otherwise the total points will be lower.

00:51:05.770 --> 00:51:09.540
So that's the total number of possible points

00:51:09.540 --> 00:51:12.549
If we agree that it is not
applicable to your organization

00:51:12.549 --> 00:51:13.720
the total will also be lower.

00:51:13.720 --> 00:51:16.280
And then your total percentage is higher.

00:51:16.280 --> 00:51:20.190
So explain it please, when you find something not applicable.

00:51:20.190 --> 00:51:24.460
Then briefly on the theme of the honorable mention.

00:51:24.460 --> 00:51:29.859
That will also be explicitly mentioned during
the Crystal event.

00:51:29.859 --> 00:51:32.970
That is about double materiality.

00:51:32.970 --> 00:51:35.910
That is an important part of the CSRD.

00:51:35.910 --> 00:51:41.890
And also the starting point of further ' information provision '
about sustainability.

00:51:41.890 --> 00:51:49.730
That double materiality, in the implementation can be quite a complicated
assessment, but conceptually quite simple.

00:51:49.730 --> 00:51:56.750
It's about an organization
not just looking at: 'what in sustainability land

00:51:56.750 --> 00:51:58.420
has an impact on my operations?'.

00:51:58.420 --> 00:52:03.880
But also: 'how did our
operations impact people and nature?'.

00:52:03.880 --> 00:52:05.819
So it is outside -in and inside -out.

00:52:05.819 --> 00:52:11.860
assess that both ways and
you will get a list of:

00:52:11.860 --> 00:52:14.270
'what are the most important subjects for me?'.

00:52:14.270 --> 00:52:15.329
Both of: 'what has an impact on me?'

00:52:15.329 --> 00:52:16.880
As well as 'what do I have an impact on?'.

00:52:16.880 --> 00:52:19.920
And then you come to your double materiality.

00:52:19.920 --> 00:52:21.520
We're going to look at that.

00:52:21.520 --> 00:52:24.740
You can also indicate it if you believe: here
we are already doing very well.

00:52:24.740 --> 00:52:28.859
There is also a question about this in the assessment on
double materiality.

00:52:28.859 --> 00:52:33.180
Indicate: we think this is double
materiality.

00:52:33.180 --> 00:52:36.050
Then we know: hey, we have to be alert here.

00:52:36.050 --> 00:52:39.580
This could be a frontrunner for this honorable
mention.

00:52:39.580 --> 00:52:45.900
And the Panel of Experts will be there too
pay extra attention to this too.

00:52:45.900 --> 00:52:48.900
Finally, the process in the timeline.

00:52:48.900 --> 00:52:52.410
We are here now on April 26th at the Kick-off
event.

00:52:52.410 --> 00:52:55.700
The deadline for the self -assessment is 1
July.

00:52:55.700 --> 00:52:58.440
So, get started with that!

00:52:58.440 --> 00:53:03.960
Then we have a month at EY to 
assess all 500 companies.

00:53:03.960 --> 00:53:05.720
So then we'll get started.

00:53:05.720 --> 00:53:07.160
Then we will communicate those scores back.

00:53:07.160 --> 00:53:10.720
Then comes the communication of the initial
scores from us.

00:53:10.720 --> 00:53:13.329
And that is also the opening of the
comment round.

00:53:13.329 --> 00:53:19.720
So then you will have the chance to share your feedback,
which you only get if you have

00:53:19.720 --> 00:53:24.500
filled in the assessment

00:53:24.500 --> 00:53:27.050
Like, 'well, we think it is on that page', for instance.

00:53:27.050 --> 00:53:29.090
Then we go back and reevaluate with that new information

00:53:29.090 --> 00:53:32.440
You then have about 2 weeks to do so
until August 18.

00:53:32.440 --> 00:53:38.020
And then on September 10, we communicate the
final scores.

00:53:38.020 --> 00:53:41.400
And then our work goes to the Panel of Experts.

00:53:41.400 --> 00:53:46.049
Those meet a few weeks later, and those
then go look at the Top 20.

00:53:46.049 --> 00:53:50.240
Then in October, the Jury meets to discuss
the Top 3 – it has already been mentioned.

00:53:50.240 --> 00:53:54.030
And then the Crystal Award Ceremony is on 28
November.

00:53:54.030 --> 00:53:56.230
That was my story.

00:53:56.230 --> 00:53:57.430
That was your story.

00:53:57.430 --> 00:53:58.430
Bas, gosh

00:53:58.430 --> 00:54:00.160
I’m already getting excited that this happening again. 

00:54:00.160 --> 00:54:05.770
And what an assignment to examine 500 assessments within a month

00:54:05.770 --> 00:54:07.000
Yes, we do it with a big team.

00:54:07.000 --> 00:54:14.010
What I gather from your story is that a higher 
score goes up for the more specific you are and that also the 

00:54:14.010 --> 00:54:19.599
level of assurance definitely has an influence.

00:54:19.599 --> 00:54:26.250
I'll take a look at what's been asked
In the chat.

00:54:26.250 --> 00:54:31.260
Someone asks: I fill in the assignment from the perspective
of my organization 

00:54:31.260 --> 00:54:32.260

00:54:32.260 --> 00:54:36.030
How does EY take these answers into account in the general
judgement?

00:54:36.030 --> 00:54:39.240
How can this affect the score?

00:54:39.240 --> 00:54:42.000
I get that.

00:54:42.000 --> 00:54:45.799
You know your organization better than we do.

00:54:45.799 --> 00:54:50.230
We appreciate it if you fill in that assessment from that perspective

00:54:50.230 --> 00:54:54.569
I'm not sure I fully understand what's being said
meant by 'the overall assessment'

00:54:54.569 --> 00:54:56.780
versus 'their interpretation'.

00:54:56.780 --> 00:55:03.030
We therefore assess your company when you do the self -assessment
based on what you entered.

00:55:03.030 --> 00:55:06.910
True, but there are also companies that have not filled in the self-assessment

00:55:06.910 --> 00:55:11.800
So does the self-assessment then affect the overall assessment?

00:55:11.800 --> 00:55:17.470
Yes, sure, because as I've already tried
to say.

00:55:17.470 --> 00:55:23.060
If you fill that in, and say: in this
document or on this website page

00:55:23.060 --> 00:55:27.380
We have more information – or we have another 'stand
alone ' human rights report or other report.

00:55:27.380 --> 00:55:29.210
You name it.

00:55:29.210 --> 00:55:30.680
Have a look at that page.

00:55:30.680 --> 00:55:35.440
If we don't have that guide, so in
the case of companies that do not fill it in,

00:55:35.440 --> 00:55:36.850
then we have to look for ourselves.

00:55:36.850 --> 00:55:38.990
But of course there is also a time limit
on.

00:55:38.990 --> 00:55:44.420
We can't have 500 companies, if half of them don't fill it in – 
then we are more likely

00:55:44.420 --> 00:55:47.680
although we do our best, to overlook things.

00:55:47.680 --> 00:55:50.710
So in that sense it definitely affects.

00:55:50.710 --> 00:55:56.849
In addition, as mentioned earlier,
you can only access the comment round if

00:55:56.849 --> 00:55:59.080
you also have filled in something yourself in the assessment

00:55:59.080 --> 00:56:02.500
So if we say: we don't quite agree with this, 
or can you be more specific about

00:56:02.500 --> 00:56:08.619
what is meant by that or where it says that, 
so you still have a chance to interact 

00:56:08.619 --> 00:56:09.619
with the reviewers.

00:56:09.619 --> 00:56:10.619
Exactly.

00:56:10.619 --> 00:56:15.900
I would therefore like to recommend everyone, grab that opportunity, 
Only if it were just for that round of feedback.

00:56:15.900 --> 00:56:21.109
Because that is also the piece of advice, feedback
and how to learn.

00:56:21.109 --> 00:56:27.520
Dylan says: Bas indicated that the reference
within the annual report to a specific

00:56:27.520 --> 00:56:32.059
overview, for example to exclusions and
engagement, counts in the assessment.

00:56:32.059 --> 00:56:36.839
Do references in the annual report to
more general policy documents on a specific

00:56:36.839 --> 00:56:38.220
Topic count too?

00:56:38.220 --> 00:56:39.450
For example human rights .

00:56:39.450 --> 00:56:43.030
Yes, I can actually answer that briefly

00:56:43.030 --> 00:56:48.011
As soon as it is in the annual report, that is
a periodic report, if there is one

00:56:48.011 --> 00:56:51.450
specific link to a document
then that will be taken.

00:56:51.450 --> 00:56:55.410
As long as that document is freely accessible

00:56:55.410 --> 00:56:57.309
So it can't be an internal document.

00:56:57.309 --> 00:57:00.589
Ah, that's a good point to know too.

00:57:00.589 --> 00:57:04.150
Also to anyone else who must be transparent

00:57:04.150 --> 00:57:06.900
That's a nice point.

00:57:06.900 --> 00:57:09.099
I think we're there then.

00:57:09.099 --> 00:57:18.960
I just want to add to your story: there are obviously 
things you can have questions about,

00:57:18.960 --> 00:57:22.980
for example about which business areas are more or less sustainable.

00:57:22.980 --> 00:57:25.400

00:57:25.400 --> 00:57:27.310
On rvo.nl there is a helpful ‘CSR risk checker’ for this.

00:57:27.310 --> 00:57:31.930
In addition, there are also several vouchers available
to investigate or to make your own supply 

00:57:31.930 --> 00:57:33.079
Chain more sustainable

00:57:33.079 --> 00:57:37.059
So if you run into issues, know
that there is help.

00:57:37.059 --> 00:57:41.869
Bas, thank you very much for your contribution.

00:57:41.869 --> 00:57:45.690
Gosh, what have we all been able to experience
this morning?

00:57:45.690 --> 00:57:48.270
We started with the opening of Ilknur Dönmez.

00:57:48.270 --> 00:57:52.690
She spoke from the perspective of the Ministry of
Economic Affairs and Climate Policy about what the importance

00:57:52.690 --> 00:57:54.440
is of transparent CSR reporting.

00:57:54.440 --> 00:58:01.349
We talked to Giuseppe about and 
looked back over the past 20 years.

00:58:01.349 --> 00:58:04.690
A lot has changed and I would say:
let's keep going like this.

00:58:04.690 --> 00:58:10.720
We also spoke to the Crystal Prize winners
last year, ABN AMRO, about how they

00:58:10.720 --> 00:58:14.359
Obtain higher levels of assurance 

00:58:14.359 --> 00:58:19.790
And that they also look forward to a fairer level
playing field with the advent of due diligence

00:58:19.790 --> 00:58:20.790
legislation.

00:58:20.790 --> 00:58:25.320
And finally, Bas told us about the
criteria of the Transparency Benchmark and

00:58:25.320 --> 00:58:28.220
Linkages with the CSRD.

00:58:28.220 --> 00:58:32.099
And explained how the self -assessment should be done
and why you should fill it in.

00:58:32.099 --> 00:58:35.380
Speaking of which, I want to mention it
Once more.

00:58:35.380 --> 00:58:38.630
The self -assessment is online now!

00:58:38.630 --> 00:58:46.369
So you can start filling it in now, 
you can go to the website of rvo – rvo.nl/transparantiebenchmark.

00:58:46.369 --> 00:58:48.619
There you will find information.

00:58:48.619 --> 00:58:55.470
And you will also find a link to the self -assessment
in the email you will receive immediately after this program

00:58:55.470 --> 00:58:56.470

00:58:56.470 --> 00:59:03.819
We will send you more information, namely: the
presentation that Bas has just given,

00:59:03.819 --> 00:59:10.369
evaluation questions, the timeline and also information
about the replay link of this event, the video of

00:59:10.369 --> 00:59:11.369
This kick off.

00:59:11.369 --> 00:59:14.460
In case you missed a part or 
want to watch something again.

00:59:14.460 --> 00:59:19.099
The reporting will be reviewed by EY in the upcoming period

00:59:19.099 --> 00:59:20.940
And eventually also by the Panel of Experts.

00:59:20.940 --> 00:59:25.640
And if you really belong to the top, also
by the Crystal Jury for the award of

00:59:25.640 --> 00:59:27.700
the Crystal Prize 2023.

00:59:27.700 --> 00:59:35.030
The event will be – as said before - 
on November 28.

00:59:35.030 --> 00:59:41.890
And there you will also hear what kind of follow-up the
Transparency benchmark gets in the years

00:59:41.890 --> 00:59:42.890
after this.

00:59:42.890 --> 00:59:47.520
Because this is the last edition,
in this form as we know it today.

00:59:47.520 --> 00:59:49.510
But of course, the support does not end there

00:59:49.510 --> 00:59:50.880
There will be another sequel.

00:59:50.880 --> 00:59:54.760
And because it's the last edition, please grab this opportunity 
And be present!

00:59:54.760 --> 00:59:59.950
The event will include lectures, workshop, and other inspiring speakers

00:59:59.950 --> 01:00:00.950
So do come.

01:00:00.950 --> 01:00:04.710
It will be a beautiful event in a very beautiful
location.

01:00:04.710 --> 01:00:08.299
What it all looks like exactly
Of course we're not going to reveal that just yet.

01:00:08.299 --> 01:00:10.580
But you will find out later this year.

01:00:10.580 --> 01:00:13.609
In any case, put November 28 in your
agenda.

01:00:13.609 --> 01:00:16.579
All right, it’s now time to end this webinar.

01:00:16.579 --> 01:00:18.539
Thank you for watching.

01:00:18.539 --> 01:00:21.099
And for your commitment to transparent CSR reporting.

01:00:21.099 --> 01:00:27.069
I would say: I wish you the best of luck with the filling
the self -assessment and drawing up

01:00:27.069 --> 01:00:28.069
all reports.

01:00:28.069 --> 01:00:35.760
Thanks again and I look forward to seeing you in November.

01:00:35.760 --> 01:00:41.720
Goodbye!

