Impact Measurement And Reporting

At RBGLP, we combine the expertise of our seasoned lawyers with a network of scientific professionals to deliver cutting-edge advice on sustainability impact assessments. We help clients in Zambia, Africa, and the sub-region navigate regulatory and commercial requirements for sustainability reporting, ensuring compliance and fostering trust among stakeholders.

The Issue

As the global economy shifts towards sustainable frameworks, businesses in Africa and Zambia are increasingly adopting science-based greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets and other sustainability metrics. However, many aspects of sustainability measurement remain complex due to overlapping environmental, social, and economic factors, as well as localised physical and social conditions.

Accurate measurement and characterisation of sustainability impacts are critical for:

• Regulatory Compliance: Aligning with evolving local, regional, and international standards.
• Stakeholder Approval: Gaining trust from investors, communities, and regulators.
• Litigation Preparedness: Mitigating risks associated with potential future disputes or accusations of greenwashing.

In Zambia and the sub-region, the challenges of sustainability impact assessment are compounded by the need to address local realities, such as energy access, water scarcity, and social equity, while contributing to global sustainability goals.

What We Do

RBGLP offers a comprehensive suite of services to help clients accurately measure and report on sustainability impacts, tailored to the African context.

Key Services

1. Regulatory Guidance

• Advising on ESG disclosure requirements, including interpretation and implementation of relevant frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) sustainability protocols.
• Mitigating risks of greenwashing by ensuring accurate and compliant public and private disclosures.

2. Standards Development

• Assisting in the creation and publication of ESG-related due diligence and reporting standards.
• Drafting ESG-related contractual provisions for investors, aligned with international principles such as the UN Principles for Responsible Investment (UNPRI).

3. Scientific and Data Expertise

• Leveraging our network of scientific experts to validate data, methodologies, and sustainability metrics.
• Evaluating claims such as additionality in renewable energy projects, comparative product life cycle assessments, and eco-design compliance.

4. Policy and Target Setting

1. • Supporting clients in creating comprehensive sustainability strategies, setting realistic targets, and aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
   • Advising businesses on embedding sustainability into their core operations and strategic decisions.

5. Stakeholder Engagement

1. • Helping clients align their impact measurement and reporting practices with the expectations of stakeholders, including communities, regulators, and investors.

Our Impact

RBGLP has a proven track record of helping clients in Africa and beyond measure and report on their sustainability impacts:

• Renewable Energy Projects: Advising Zambian renewable energy providers on substantiating claims regarding clean energy provision and ensuring compliance with international reporting standards.
• Global Technology Company: Supporting a multinational with operations in Africa in substantiating environmental sustainability claims made in public statements.
• Product Life Cycle Assessments: Working with regional manufacturers to assess product sustainability impacts and ensure compliance with eco-design requirements.
• Advocacy for Sustainability Integration: Participating in discussions with African development organisations and businesses to advocate for aligning legal frameworks with sustainability targets, including integrating SDGs into local governance.

Why RBGLP?

With our strong local presence and global outlook, RBGLP provides the tools and expertise needed to help businesses in Zambia and Africa lead the way in sustainability impact measurement and reporting. Partner with us to enhance your environmental and social governance practices, ensuring long-term success in a competitive, sustainable future.