A practical guide to navigating the new UK Sustainability Reporting Standards
The UK Sustainability Reporting Standards (UK SRS S1 and S2) have been officially published. The FCA consultation is expected in 2025, with mandatory reporting starting for financial years beginning on or after 1 January 2026 for the first wave of companies.
Mandatory reporting required from financial years beginning on or after 1 January 2026
Voluntary adoption recommended to prepare for future mandates
Evaluate your current sustainability reporting against UK SRS requirements. Identify gaps in data, processes, and governance structures.
Establish robust systems for collecting, validating, and reporting sustainability data across your entire value chain.
Create a comprehensive climate transition plan with science-based targets and clear milestones aligned with UK SRS requirements.
Deploy your reporting systems, train your teams, and conduct dry runs to ensure compliance before mandatory reporting begins.
Produce your first UK SRS-compliant report, obtain assurance, and establish continuous improvement processes.
Streamlined Energy & Carbon Reporting
Comprehensive Sustainability Reporting
Climate Transition Plans
Scenario Analysis
Value Chain Assessment
For the first wave (Premium and Standard listed companies, large financial institutions), UK SRS reporting becomes mandatory for financial years beginning on or after 1 January 2026. This means most companies will publish their first UK SRS report in 2027.
UK SRS builds on TCFD but goes much further. While TCFD focuses on climate-related financial disclosures, UK SRS covers all material sustainability topics, requires quantified metrics, mandates Scope 3 reporting, and will eventually require external assurance.
Yes, UK SRS is expected to supersede SECR for companies within scope. UK SRS provides a more comprehensive framework that includes all SECR requirements plus significant additional disclosure requirements aligned with international standards.
While not immediately mandatory, many companies should prepare now. AIM-listed companies, large private companies, and those in the supply chains of listed companies are likely to face requirements in subsequent waves. Early adoption also provides competitive advantages.
Scope 3 calculation requires mapping your entire value chain across 15 categories defined by the GHG Protocol. This includes upstream activities (purchased goods, transportation) and downstream activities (product use, end-of-life). Most companies need specialized software and expertise to accurately calculate Scope 3.
Don't wait for the mandate. Companies that prepare now will have a significant advantage.