In our ongoing blog series on the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), today we focus on ESRS E3, which governs reporting on water and marine resources. This standard is a key part of the drive for greater sustainability and transparency in the use and management of these critical resources.

What is ESRS E3?

ESRS E3 focuses on the sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources. Companies are required to disclose their water use and the impact of their activities on marine ecosystems, particularly with regard to the materiality of these resources for the company. This includes the assessment of risks and opportunities as well as the development of strategies to minimize negative impacts.

Let's take a closer look at the first aspect of standard E3, "Water resources". Although more than two-thirds of the earth is covered with water, not all water is equal. Less than three percent is very unevenly distributed freshwater. Of this, only around 0.3 % is accessible as surface water in the form of rivers, lakes or swamps. This is increasingly burdened by economic activities - 70 % of human water consumption worldwide is accounted for by agriculture.

Overview of disclosure requirements in accordance with ESRS E3

Synergies with other ESRS topics

The management of water and marine resources according to ESRS E3 is closely linked to other sustainability standards, which illustrates the comprehensive nature of the ESRS:

• Environmental pollution (ESRS E2): Covers aspects of water pollution that directly affect water quality.
• Social standards (ESRS S1 to S4): Touches on the social impacts of water use on local communities and the entire value chain.

Concluding thoughts

By complying with ESRS E3, companies can not only meet regulatory requirements, but also actively contribute to the conservation of water and marine resources. This not only strengthens the ecological balance, but also improves the company's long-term sustainability and risk management.

In future posts, we will explore more details on ESRS E3 and its specific requirements to help companies further optimize their reporting and sustainability practices. Stay tuned for deeper insights and practical tips to help you successfully navigate the challenges and opportunities of managing water and marine resources.