Trustworthy sustainability data is vital, say global bodies
Press Release | Internal Audit Foundation | October 7, 2025
ACCA and the Internal Audit Foundation have issued joint research that highlights how robust and accurate data underpins organisations’ sustainability strategies and identifies steps for success
LAKE MARY, Fla. (October 7, 2025) – In a world of data, which information to trust and in what circumstances is a key business issue, especially when it comes to sustainability-related data. ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and The Institute of Internal Auditors’ (IIA) Internal Audit Foundation have explored the issues and opportunities for businesses and other organisations and have prepared a practical report that offers recommendations and an action plan.
The new report Internal control over sustainability data reveals that there is a real opportunity for accountancy, finance and internal audit professionals to drive the sustainability agenda by applying internal control principles to sustainability-related data. Together they can deliver strategically important, meaningful work and make a strong contribution to building sustainable businesses, which are essential for the future of the capital markets, the global economy and the planet.
Helen Brand OBE, chief executive of ACCA, said: ‘Trust in sustainability data is vital if we’re going to be successful in driving forward a more sustainable world, and a robust and effective approach to internal controls inside businesses is crucial to achieving this. Through this leading-edge research, we’re equipping accountancy, finance and internal audit professionals with the knowledge they need for the evolving sustainability landscape.’
Anthony J. Pugliese, President and CEO of The Institute of Internal Auditors, said: ‘By focusing on how we apply internal controls to sustainability data, our professions can collectively strengthen trust, support better decisions, and help build truly sustainable businesses. This report offers a clear path forward and a compelling call to action for accountancy, finance, and internal audit professionals to lead the way.’
Drawing on interviews with more than 50 accountancy, finance and internal audit professionals, along with responses from over 900 survey respondents, the report has three key messages:
- The nature of the process flows related to sustainability data require a reappraisal of the accepted internal control concepts to ensure they are applied appropriately.
- Successful implementation of internal control over sustainability data fundamentally relies upon the executive and management of the organisation embedding sustainability objectives as core strategic objectives, monitored by robust key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Data ownership that embraces internal control must be established, especially in areas where control consciousness is not fundamental to personal conduct, and all those involved in internal control must have the appropriate skill sets to fulfil their responsibilities.
The research was conducted as part of a long-standing memorandum of understanding between ACCA and The Institute of Internal Auditors (The IIA). Under the agreement, the two bodies are focused on advancing their members’ careers, enhancing governance practices, and serving the public interest.
Explore the full report.
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Information for editors
The survey respondents were asked three interconnected survey questions, which focused upon understanding the extent to which there is an ambition to implement internal controls over sustainability data, the extent to which entity-level leadership is supportive of this and an assessment of the current adequacy of the controls.
The results are given in the figure below: Perspectives on controls over sustainability data – importance, leader support, and adequacy (among respondents with sustainability reporting) (n=658)
About ACCA
We are ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), the only truly global professional accountancy body. Since we were founded in 1904, we’ve been breaking down barriers to the accountancy profession. Today we proudly support a diverse community of over 257,900 members and 530,100 future members in 180 countries.
We’re redefining accountancy. Our cutting-edge qualifications, continuous learning and insights are respected and valued by employers in every sector. They equip individuals with the business and finance expertise and ethical judgment to lead and drive sustainable value in organisations and economies worldwide.
Guided by our purpose and values, we’re leading the accountancy profession for a changed world. Partnering with policymakers, standard setters, the donor community, educators and other accountancy bodies, we’re strengthening and building a profession that focuses on people, planet and prosperity to create value for all.
Find out more at: www.accaglobal.com
About The Internal Audit Foundation
The Internal Audit Foundation is the preeminent global resource, in strategic partnership with The IIA, dedicated to elevating and empowering the internal audit profession by developing cutting-edge research and programs. The Foundation helps current and future internal auditors stay relevant by building and enhancing their skills and knowledge, ensuring organizations are equipped to create, protect, and sustain long-term value. For more information, visit theiia.org/Foundation.
About The Institute of Internal Auditors
The Institute of Internal Auditors (The IIA) is an international professional association that serves more than 265,000 global members and has awarded more than 200,000 Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) certifications worldwide. Established in 1941, The IIA is recognized throughout the world as the internal audit profession's leader in standards, certifications, education, research, and technical guidance. For more information, visit theiia.org.
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Sarah DuBois
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