How sustainability reporting resembles the Guiness Book of World Records
The History
The Guinness Book of World Records has long been a symbol of human achievement, documenting extraordinary feats such as the most chilies eaten in one minute or the longest nails ever grown. Originally established by Guinness (the beer) as a solution to pub arguments, rather than falling by the wayside with the proliferation of google, it has evolved into a global marketing powerhouse.
Where Are We Today?
In today's world, where social media shapes personal and corporate reputations, the Guinness Book of World Records serves as a finely tuned marketing machine. Companies and individuals seek its brand consultation to strategically enhance their personal brand by attempting to break existing records or even creating new ones.
The Similarity
Similarly, in the realm of corporate sustainability, mortgage lenders face a myriad of options when it comes to measuring and reporting their environmental and social impact. Much like individuals selecting which record to attempt, mortgage lenders choose which sustainability measures to prioritize and present, often aiming to showcase themselves in the most favourable light.
This cherry-picking of sustainability metrics poses a challenge when attempting to compare mortgage lenders side by side to determine their levels of sustainability.
What we do
At Sustainable Home Loans, we recognize this challenge and strive for transparency in our reporting. Instead of concealing inconsistencies, we openly acknowledge them and provide clients with comprehensive information about the strengths and weaknesses of different sustainability measures. Our goal is to empower clients to make informed decisions based on rational analysis rather than superficial metrics.
While ultimately, we would love to see single and comprehensive measurement by which we could consistently measure all lenders levels of sustainability, we are aware that until all pub arguments can be settled, that will never happen. In the meantime, rather than being paralysed by imperfect information, we work with what we have and to improve.
Warm Regards
Marisa
Marisa Hoffenberg, m:0416538227, marisa@sustainablehomeloans.com.au