Reporting on Biodiversity – Previous Reporting Practices and Disclosure Requirements in Accordance with ESRS E4

Companies are expected to reevaluate their business models in terms of biodiversity and provide detailed reporting on this due to the significantly increased reporting requirements regarding the European Sustainability Reporting Standard E4 <em>Biodiversity and Ecosystems</em> (ESRS E4). In light of this regulatory change this case study focuses on biodiversity reporting. On the one hand, the previous reporting practices are discussed, and the normative framework is presented. On the other hand, the main requirements of ESRS E4 are summarized, and practical guidance is provided as an entry aid to reporting in accordance with ESRS E4. Furthermore, an initial use case is presented, and assignments for both practitioners and students are outlined. The case study emphasizes the relevance of biodiversity efforts and demonstrates that, in light of previous reporting practices, the implementation of ESRS E4 unveils significant challenges for reporting companies, but should be understood as a strategic opportunity in the long term.